In recent years, the concept of remote work has taken the world by storm. With the rise of remote work, the need for efficient home office setups has never been greater. But what about taking it a step further with a garden office? Is this better than working in a spare room in your home? In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both garden offices and home offices, helping you decide which setup is right for you.
Location and Setting
Consider the fact that garden offices offer a unique advantage. Imagine stepping out of your home and into a serene, natural environment. Garden offices provide this tranquil backdrop, separate from the hustle and bustle of your main residence. The birds chirping and the scent of blooming flowers can be your new co-workers. It can put you in an energetic and positive mood first thing in the morning. These good vibes can follow you into the working day.
On the flip side, home offices are conveniently located within your home. No need to step outside, deal with unpredictable weather, or worry about a lengthy commute to your workspace. It’s all there under your roof. Some people like this 10 second transition from home to work life. But, there are others that do not like having no separation and how you share the same environment to work and live. Suddenly, your living room is not just a relaxing place. It is also somewhere you have to focus and be professional.
Productivity and Focus
One of the biggest selling points of a garden office is its impact on productivity and focus. Indeed, this is a positive one and separation from your home can help you stay on task. An office for your garden is your dedicated space for work, free from household distractions. The quiet and solitude of a garden office can be a productivity booster. You are free to get on with your workload in peace.
In contrast, home office might not offer the same level of privacy and solitude. Family members, household chores, and the TV can all compete for your attention. This causes a distraction and this is when you get make mistakes, get frustrated and fall behind on deadlines. If you have a separate room you can use as an office, you might get around this downside. But, if you are having to share a space with others and the distractions within, this is when you can run into problems.
Cost Considerations
Let’s talk money. Garden offices do come with some upfront costs. You’ll need to invest in the structure itself, as well as electricity and heating if you plan to use it year-round. Yet, this expense could pay off in terms of increased home value and productivity. What’s more, people like the fact that they are using their garden space more. This is often an under-utilised area of your property. So, it can be a good investment.
In contrast, home offices usually come with lower setup costs. You’re already in your home, so there’s no need for additional construction. If you are on a budget and need to transition to remote working quickly, this might be the best option to begin with. However, don’t forget to consider the long-term costs of utilities and maintenance for this space.
Commute and Lifestyle
Garden offices are winners in the commute department. Say goodbye to those long traffic jams and crowded buses. There is nothing worse than sitting for an hour or more a day in traffic. Your workplace is just a few steps away. This can drastically improve your work-life balance.
Of course, home offices are also winners when it comes to commuting. Depending on the design of your home, you likely will take less steps to enter your office space. It is clear that both types offices are similar in this respect and there is nothing really separating the two.
Customisation and Design
Here’s where garden offices really shine. You have the freedom to design and customise your garden workspace according to your tastes. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist space or a cosy, rustic retreat, the garden is your canvas. You can select the design of your garden office. Then, you can decorate it in a way that boosts your productivity and makes you feel good when you have to work.
On the other hand, home offices are often confined to existing spaces within your house. For instance, you might be forced to add a working space to your bedroom, dining room or living room. There is less freedom to design a productive space and it is more about making things fit with the existing template. Sure, you can choose the desk you want and accessorise shelving and other elements. But, you can be much more limited.
Environmental Impact
If you’re environmentally conscious, a garden office might align with your values. With ample natural light, you can reduce the use of electricity. Plus, during warmer months of the year, you don’t have to use heating. There’s the potential to lower your energy consumption, which is something that has risen due to remote working. In addition, garden offices can be made from sustainable and long-lasting materials. There is the potential for green roofs too.
In comparison, a home office within your house relies on the environmental footprint of your entire home. Many people have found that electricity and heating bills have increased, which can be expensive and mean increasing your carbon footprint. If you are consciously trying to improve your habits and help the environment, this is not something you want to hear.
Conclusion
In the battle of garden offices vs. home offices, we’d say that there is one tipping the scales. We’re voting for garden offices, which many remote workers are agreeing with too. They offer a tranquil escape and a boost in productivity. But, you should note their cost. Some people will swear by a home office since it can be convenient and budget-friendly.
It all comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Consider your work style, lifestyle, and budget when making your decision. Whichever path you choose, make sure it’s a space where you can thrive and be productive.
