It may not get used, and it may get overlooked, but many of us have more spaces in our homes than we realize.
Most of the time this is specifically relevant to your outdoor land. Gardens tend to be under-utilized especially when it comes to spaces that can be actually used.
With an increase in people working from home and working hybrid, there are now trends circulating on social media outlets like TikTok and Instagram of people creating outdoor sanctuaries.
From outdoor lounging spaces, to multi-use Quonset hut models to create workshops, storage areas and somewhere that you can host overnight stays.
Types of multifunctional workspace
You may not be sure what type of space is right for you. Here are some popular examples of multifunctional workspaces that are perfect for homeowners with gardens.
Office
Working from home has become the norm over the past few years, with more companies adopting remote or hybrid policies enabling employees to work where suits them best. But the home setting doesn’t always make for the most focused environment.
Creating a designated space to work while at home, like an office in an unused space in the garden, is growing more popular with people all over the world.
Some great tips are to set up a desk near natural light and decorate the interior with plants, artwork or prints in your personal style.
Workshop
A workshop is another great option for those looking to utilize outdoor space. Whether you’re working on DIY projects or you’ve made a career from it, a garden workshop is the perfect place to store tools and supplies, while you’re tinkering away at whatever you happen to have on the go.
Art studio
You don’t need to be a professional artist to benefit from an art studio as part of your living space, and the garden setting is the ideal spot to inspire creativity. Allocate space for messy, expressive activity, with easy-to-clean surfaces, adjustable lighting and shelving for art supplies.
Wellness room
Nature and wellness go hand-and-hand, so it’s no surprise that some homeowners are designating rooms within the home to promote a healthy lifestyle. Whether it’s a yoga studio where you can stretch out or a spot to be mindful and practice meditation, a wellness room can benefit your day-to-day living.
Minimal decor, a water feature and candles are all items to consider if you’re looking to create a sense of peace and calm.
Guest suite
If you host visitors often, a garden guest suite can be a great way to give your guests a bit of privacy and accommodate overnight states. A sofa bed or wall bed are perfect for small areas; you can also consider installing a mini-fridge so they have space for cold drinks.
Amenities like towels, extra pillows and even a kettle with tea and instant coffee also make for a nice touch!
Tips on how to do it
Thinking that a multifunctional garden workspace might be the right choice for you? Here are some of our top tips on how to make it happen.
Spend some time planning
You’ll need to decide what the primary focus of your workspace is going to be. Identifying your primary uses guides the layout; whether you’re looking for a single open-plan studio or multiple divided zones inside one structure.
Assess the available space in your garden and orient the building strategically to catch the best light, access and privacy.
Stick to your budget
Decide your budget in advance and stick to it. Research different suppliers and materials and weigh out the cost benefits of each.
Be savvy with your design
Foldable furniture and built-ins — like fold-out desks and sofa beds — are a great way are a great way to create more space and enable seamless transitions between functions. Use room dividers smartly like low shelving or sliding panels to define distinct zones.
