An outdoor break area can be a valuable addition to a workplace, giving employees a place to step away from their desks, enjoy fresh air, and spend time with colleagues in a more relaxed setting. However, simply placing a few chairs outside is unlikely to create a space people genuinely want to use.
The best outdoor areas combine comfort, practicality, and thoughtful design. From reliable Wi-Fi to weather protection, a few simple decisions can turn an overlooked area into a useful extension of the workplace.
The surface beneath an outdoor seating area strongly affects both its appearance and practicality. Uneven ground, muddy grass, or worn concrete can make even expensive furniture feel less inviting.
Creating a defined patio or terrace gives the area a stronger sense of purpose. Durable paving is particularly useful in a commercial setting because it can accommodate frequent foot traffic and is generally straightforward to maintain. Businesses exploring different finishes can look at suppliers such as Quorn Stone to see how paving can complement the surrounding building and landscaping. The layout should also allow employees to move comfortably between tables and seating without creating cramped walkways.
Provide Different Types of Seating pinimg.com
Not everyone uses their break in the same way. Some employees may want to sit alone with a coffee, while others prefer eating lunch with several colleagues. A mixture of tables, individual chairs, and more relaxed seating gives people options. Smaller seating arrangements can also support informal conversations or one-to-one meetings when the weather permits. Comfort matters, but workplace furniture should also be durable enough to withstand regular outdoor use.
For a modern workplace, reliable connectivity can make an outdoor area considerably more versatile. Extending the company's Wi-Fi coverage could allow employees to take an informal meeting outside or work outdoors for a short period.
Depending on the building's size and construction, this may require an additional access point or suitable outdoor networking equipment. Any equipment installed outside should be designed for the environment and configured with the same attention to network security as indoor devices.
An outdoor break space becomes much more useful when it is not limited to perfect summer days. Pergolas, awnings, and other covered areas can provide shade during hot weather and some protection from light rain. For cooler periods, sheltered seating and suitable outdoor heating can extend how long employees can comfortably use the area. Good drainage is also important, as it prevents puddles that can make the space unusable after rainfall.
Add Practical Lighting and Power Getty Images
Outdoor lighting can make the area safer and more welcoming during darker mornings and evenings. Energy-efficient lighting with timers or motion sensors can provide illumination without remaining switched on unnecessarily. Weatherproof power points or USB charging facilities may also be useful, particularly if the space doubles as an occasional outdoor working area. Electrical installations should always be suitable for outdoor use and, where necessary, professionally fitted.
Plants, planters and small landscaped areas can soften hard surfaces and make the space feel less like an extension of the car park. Greenery can also define seating areas or separate them from busy entrances, roads, and other parts of the workplace.
Choosing relatively low-maintenance planting can help keep the space attractive without adding significant workload. Seasonal planting can also add color throughout the year, while larger planters can incorporate greenery where permanent beds aren't practical.
Then consider your bin placement, particularly if employees regularly eat outside. Regular cleaning and maintenance are equally important, as overflowing bins, damaged furniture or neglected planting can quickly make an otherwise well-designed area less appealing. Keeping the space tidy and well cared for signals that it is a genuine part of the workplace, not an overlooked outdoor corner.
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