NBS Outdoor Workspaces Guide

outdoor workspaces

boost wellbeing with fresh air and fresh concepts

blur the lines between indoors and outdoors

what’s trending

Unique Office Amenities

For organizations to earn the commute of their employees in this hybrid world, they need to support new ways of working and new expectations. Workers need different things from the office. For some it is focus, for others it is collaboration, but for everyone it’s choices. It’s the idea of giving people the ability to choose where to work and how to work. Outdoor spaces are one way organizations can hit the sweet spot of creating a unique destination to work and collaborate in while also being a place to relax and unwind – something many people enjoyed the perks of working from home.

Health and Wellbeing

Supporting people’s mental, physical and emotional health has never been more top of mind for organizations than now. From offering ergonomic furnishings and change of posture to access to daylight and fresh air, finding additional ways to show people you care about their wellbeing can boost employee morale and retain and attract talent. Incorporating biophilic design and access to nature has been proven to inspire creative thinking, reduce stress and even allow people to focus better.

Access to Technology Everywhere

It’s no shock that people are more mobile than ever. That flexibility has people craving more choice and control over where and how they work. People returning to the office will require more access to power and technology tools, both personally and for collaboration. Outdoor spaces equipped with both power and technology will see a better space utilization and create the most productive and positive user experience. From access to WiFi, displays for content sharing and power sources to keep devices charged, tech will be sought after even outside of office walls.

why outdoor spaces?

The popularity of outdoor workspaces has been on the rise. Whether it be for work or play, those courtyards, patios and rooftops all have the ability to transform how teams see work outside of office walls.

Outdoor workspaces offer a new incentive for employees to come to the office, which is fundamental to building connections to company culture and co-workers. They are also scientifically proven to support employee health and happiness.

People spend 90% of their lives indoors, according to a study by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). That’s a bit depressing if you really think about. Offering outdoor workspaces helps change the scenery for employees and gives them the opportunity to soak up the benefits of being outdoors while also being productive.

Uses of outdoor spaces

• Meeting space

• Dining space

• Individual work area

• Event and social space

• Rejuvenation / relaxation space

• Presentation space

Benefits of working outside:

• Lower stress and anxiety

• Strengthen company comaraderie

• Increase creative thinking, problem solving and spark inspiration

• Enhance overall mental, emotional and physical wellbeing

• Improve concentration and memory

• Increase happiness, engagement and talent retention

• Promote employee flexibility

IMAGINE A BETTER OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE

tips for planning your space

1. Select furniture items and materials that will stand up to the elements, and can be easily cleaned and sanitized.

2. Create settings that offer a variety of postures and work modes.

a. Comfortable lounge for conversation

b. Worksurface for meetings, solo work, etc. at ergonomic height

c. Range of postures – stool height, seated height, lounge

3. Place the outdoor workspace to be close proximity to the main workspace.

a. Provide easy access for employees to toggle between outdoor and indoor work

b. Separate the two spaces with glass or large windows so the space doesn’t feel completely cut off from the rest of the office

c. Consider a garage door to really maximize the indoor/outdoor work environment

4. Don’t let weather deter your team from taking advantage of the space. Incorporate umbrellas and other structures that can shield people from sun, rain and wind.

5. Reduce distraction and noise through the use of visual barriers like planters, landscaping or architectural elements.

power up your outdoor space with tech solutions

Technology is a new consideration when it comes to designing an outdoor workspace. People today are mobile, using their laptops, tablets, cellphones and other wireless devices at work. Including adequate GFI outlets into the outdoor design is essential to keep devices and equipment charged up.

• Extend WiFi connectivity to your outdoor space so people don’t miss a beat when they’re transitioning from working inside to outside.

• No power? No problem. Mobile power units allow team members to charge up personal devices anywhere.

• Add an outdoor display to host collaborative meetings or watch a sporting event. This is a great way to enhance employee and client engagement.

Examples of outdoor tech:

• Displays

• Speakers/Audio

• Microphones

• Mobile power

• Lighting

give your outdoor workspace some cover

Adding some kind of cover or shade to your outdoor space is important to the functionality and usage of the space. Not only shielding from the sun, wind and rain, but also shield from glare on your laptop, phone or other technology screen. Whether its natural vegetation, a permanent structure or quickly deployable option, offering protection from the elements can be the make it or break it for space utilization and enjoyment.

• Installing a pergola or something fixed-in-place gives the space a defined purpose. These structures are also great for cooler temperatures as the added protection extends the ability to use the space more months out of the year. Pergolas can be customized with features like a fully retractable roof, integrated canvas screen or even glass walls. Many are high wind resistant and can withstand the weight of snow.

• Adding removable umbrellas are nice for flexibility and allow people the choice and control when they want sun or shade. They can also be removed during an event or winter months.

• Incorporating a retractable or permanent awning attached to the building façade is a great option if you don’t want to take up any floor space

INNOVATION MEETS OUTDOOR SHADING

renson structures

Renson specializes in creating custom outdoor spaces with shading solutions that go beyond traditional pergolas, patio umbrellas and awnings. Outdoor shading is an opportunity for people to experience outdoor spaces in a new way. Timeless design, attention to detail and the latest technology come together to make the most of your outdoor space.

Renson’s unique motorized terrace coverings allow individuals to take control of their environment. Whether it’s managing heat, cold or rain, a simple press of a button lets people decide how to enjoy their time outdoors.

All of Renson’s pergolas are based on an aluminum frame, whether they are freestanding or attached to the facade. Renson offers a variety of options to customize the experience, including automatic solar shading, LED lighting to create more atmosphere and even audio and heating elements.

Examples of Renson Products:

• Pergolas

• Solar shades

• Porches

• Carports

• Siding

renson accessories

Customizing

Zipshades

Screens available in different fabrics and any color.

Side Panels

Blades open and close for more privacy.

LED Lights

Fully integrated and different LED colors available.

Glass Walls

Sliding glass walls are perfect to create a closed outdoor room.

Fixed Walls

Fixed walls available in any color.

Translucent Blades

Blades made of glass for more daylight.

Heat & Sound

Designful 2-in-1 sound and heating system.

Fans & Misting

Perfect for hot summer days.

PRODUCT PARTNER BRANDS

outdoor furniture: durable and design-forward

Furniture is an important element to an outdoor workspace. Offering a variety of furniture options allow people to choose what best suits their needs and comfort while enjoying the outdoors. There are many contract grade furniture brands available that offer durable products in a range of aesthetics, colors, and price points. Browse some of our current favorites here and in the layout Ideas to follow.

Hot Mesh counter stool from Blu Dot.

Bloom Modular seating from Sandler Seating.

Portside

Concrete outdoor dining table from West Elm.

Bistroo

Bistro table and seating from Extremis.

Anker Picnic table from Extremis.

Offline

Outdoor dining chair from Blu Dot.

Heaven

Round table with glass top from EMU.

Ginko Rope

Lounge seating from Davis.

Jibe

Outdoor sectional seating from Blu Dot.

Livia

Three-seat scalloped outdoor bench from Arcadia.

Amai

Outdoor table and shade from Extremis.

Rio R50

Coffee table from EMU.

Bai

Outdoor chair from Hightower.

PRODUCT PARTNER BRANDS

outdoor accessories: the cherry on top

To complete your outdoor space, consider adding accessories that can both improve the comfort and functionality of your outdoor space. Accessories are also a great way to interject personality, ambiance and warmth to the space. Here are some ideas to get you started.

dividers from Extremis.

Tess Planters from Hightower.

Outdoor beanbag cushion from HABA.

Lotus

Steel waste bin with wood detail from Sandler Seating.

Flex Mobile Power

Portable power supply from Steelcase.

Signal

20” Outdoor square pillow from Blu Dot.

Ufo

Bike rack from Sander Seating.

Nanimarquina

Mesh outdoor rug from Coalesse.

Kosmos

Outdoor shade from Extremis.

Longday

Bar cart from Blu Dot.

Heaven

Metal wire vase from EMU.

OUTDOOR WORKSPACES LAYOUT IDEAS

collaborative 1

Teams who want to break away from the traditional conference room can work in a collaborative outdoor space that utilizes both soft seating for conversation and stool height seating to layout materials or work on a laptop. The tiered seating also allows everyone to view the display when large groups come together. Integrated screens can be lowered to help with glare and block the wind.

Products:

Renson – Carmargue Fixscreen, Linarte Wall

Extremis – Pantagruel Table

Bludot – 9 Yard Outdoor Sofa

Bludot – Swole Small Table

Bludot – Circa Small Coffee Table

Coalesse – Emu Round Stool & Cushion

Coalesse – Nanimarquina Outdoor Rug

OUTDOOR WORKSPACES LAYOUT IDEAS

collaborative 2

Small groups can come together to work or meet in this setting. A lounge piece in the back supports breakout conversations and clear sightlines to the display. The round table in the middle supports teams to meet, work or eat together. A low bench in front of the display can hold personal belongings or be pulled up for additional seating. The sliding panels in the pergola have rotating blades that can be opened or closed for additional privacy.

Products:

Renson – Carmargue Loggia Sliding Panels, Linarte Wall, Linius Wall

Extremis – Pantagruel Table

Extremis – Captain’s Chair

Extremis – Amai Fixed Low Bench

Bludot – Swole Small Table

Bludot – Jibe 3 Seat Outdoor Sofa

Bludot – Bumper Small Outdoor Ottoman

Coalesse – Nanimarquina Outdoor Rug

OUTDOOR WORKSPACES LAYOUT IDEAS

This fully enclosed conference space supports teams who want complete acoustical privacy. A mixture of glass and side panels create an airy feel while still protecting the display from glare. A large picnic table can seat up to eight people for a unique and informal meeting experience. Small ottomans can be pulled up for additional guest seating, while a large rug and planters add warmth to the space. An integrated ceiling fan can be turned on when additional circulation is needed on hot days.

Products:

Renson – Carmargue Sliding Glass Walls,

Linarte Wall, Linius Wall

Extremis – Hopper Table –Picnic 8 Person

Bludot – Bumper Small Outdoor Ottoman

Coalesse – Nanimarquina Outdoor Rug

OUTDOOR WORKSPACES LAYOUT IDEAS

dining

Imagine dining outside with clients and team members in this unique setting. The pergola’s integrated screen and fan helps ensure diners are comfortable from heat and bugs. The large dining table gathers everyone together to enjoy a meal and conversation.

Products:

Renson–Carmargue Fixscreen, Linarte Wall

Extremis – Pontsun Table

Extremis – Captain’s Chair

Coalesse – Nanimarquina Outdoor Rug

OUTDOOR WORKSPACES LAYOUT IDEAS

respite

Taking a break to get fresh air, relax and clear the mind is important throughout the workday. This setting allows people to get away from their desk and enjoy the outdoors in the shaded comfort of the pergola. The roof blades and screen can open or close depending on how much sun the occupants want. A variety of lounge furniture creates a cozy intimate setting, while personal tables and accent tables support people’s personal devices or cup of coffee.

Products:

Renson – Carmargue Fixscreen, Linarte Wall

Extremis – Walrus

Bludot – Swole Small Table

Coalesse – Nanimarquina Outdoor Rug

Coalesse – Emu Heaven Lounge Chair

Coalesse – Emu Heaven Side Tables

OUTDOOR WORKSPACES LAYOUT IDEAS

task

Why can’t the desk be taken outside? Individuals or a small team can get work done in this fully enclosed pergola. Dual screens support productivity for individuals while a large display allows teams to toggle between group work and solo tasks.

Products:

Renson – Carmargue Sliding Glass Walls, Linius Wall, Linarte Wall

Extremis – Captain’s Chair

Extremis – Marina Double Desks

Bludot – Bumper Small Outdoor Ottoman

Coalesse – Nanimarquina Outdoor Rug

added features

Want to add even more to your outdoor space? Try some of these ideas to take your space to the next level and see the engagement and enjoyment improve along with it.

• Plants & planters can be added to act as natural barriers and sound dampeners.

• Water features can also help minimize background noise and provide a soothing effect

• Outdoor speakers are a way to add ambient music and to help mask street noise

• Ceiling fans are a great add to provide additional relief from the heat and keep bugs away

• Outdoor fireplace/firepits/heaters keep people warm and add ambiance on cold days

• Outdoor kitchens or grills encourage people to eat together and are great for social events

• Outdoor games like cornhole, ping pong, large jenga, etc, bring people together to socialize and have fun.