Bring your office outdoors

MANY of us will be working from home for the foreseeable future and as the weather warms up you could maybe think about setting up an outdoor office, even if you only have a small exterior space in your house or apartment. First of all, sort out your hardware. If you haven’t already got one then you’ll need a laptop or notebook as well as an extension lead, preferably one that also charges the device. You can also get a wrap-around sunshade for the PC, (try Amazon) and/or an anti-glare screen protector (Super Shieldz are €10 for a pack of three). Your furniture depends on the size of workspace you have and other factors such as the amount of direct sunlight and built in shelter. For the very smallest of spaces you can get a foldaway table that attaches to a railing or wall, well under 100 euros from retailers such as Wayfair or Ikea. Seating is up to you, some like an adjustable chaise lounge while others may find that a bit too comfortable and find themselves dozing off. Ikea do a standard outdoor reclining wooden chair for around €40 or you could even just buy a good cushion for an outdoor chair you already own. Tables depend on the space available and how much room you need once your laptop is sitting on it. You can get a cute little metal table and two chairs from Wayfair for less than €180 with room for a PC and coffee cup or a wooden coffee table that folds out for extra space if you’re weighed down with paperwork etc. After the basics, any little luxuries are up to you. A reclining chaise-lounge with wheels and pull out table, a vintage table and chair set, some decent scatter cushions, an ottoman to put your feet up and a collapsible drink and snack table are all nice to haves – but if you have some serious work to do be aware of the dangers of getting a bit TOO comfortable. And don’t forget a good sunscreen, even if you think you’re well shaded.