We were cruising down our street yesterday and noticed a neighbor had set up shop on his front porch. Desk, laptop and projects included, he steadily typed away in his outdoor surroundings. We wish we had a front porch for an office but we make do at home and try our best to bring the outdoors in
- Our desk is surrounded by two windows (which we keep open a majority of the time). To stay semi-secluded but still allow in light, we hung sheer curtains. If your workspace travels at home, perch up next to an open window or door.
- In college, we were thrilled when a professor would take lecture outdoors on a beautiful day. Do the same at home. Head to a local coffee shop with free WiFi or set up a temporary office on your front porch (if you're lucky enough to have one).
- We've mentioned this before, but there's nothing like bringing nature indoors with a thunderstorm or rain CD.
- While we don't have a front porch, we do have a screen door (which we utilize daily, weather permitting). Screen doors are relatively inexpensive and easy to install and are great way to keep that breezy vibe indoors.
- We were at a friend's house this week and she mentioned that even though her house was a bit messy, fresh flowers make it less noticeable. We agree! Bring in your favorite spring mix or hang a fern to liven up your indoor space.
What about our AT readers--do you like to work outdoors? How do you bring the outdoors in (or are you lucky enough to have a front porch to work from?)
[Image from Office Now's flickr, witha Creative Commons License]
I pretty much just work in an office these days, tied to my desktop computer and phone. But Chatauqua Park in Boulder is one of my favorite places ever, and the picture in your post is making me homesick. I used to hike up there to my favorite spot to read a book on weekends and summer afternoons.
Wish I could work outside these days. But between my job and the weather, I'm stuck here.
view Mam rad pivo's profile
Glad for my balcony when I really want to be outside but need to get work done....now if it wasn't connected to my neighbor's balcony and a direct view of a train track and houses....
view ChrisGal's profile
I really enjoy working outdoors. I use my laptop on my back porch or out on my porch swing while my daughter runs around the yard. We're both happy! If I can't make it outside, I work at the kitchen table with all of the curtains wide open.
view Brandyjane's profile
I worked all last summer on my front porch, in my new house. I did find that it was a bit more difficult to work in the yard, unless I was in the shade, because the glare on the laptop screen was alarming. This summer, I'm getting a glare guard.
view whatzerkitty's profile