A happy employee is a productive employee. While getting the balance right can be tricky for your business, there are numerous ways to boost morale and promote wellbeing. One way is to create an inviting outdoor area. 

An outdoor space offers a refreshing break from your work's indoor environment. It serves as a venue built for relaxation, socialising, and even informal meetings. At least, that's the case when this space is designed with the right care and attention. 

Here are five points to consider when setting up a great outdoor area for your employees. 

Comfortable Seating 

For a welcoming outdoor area, there's only one place to start with the foundation: comfortable, durable seating. 

Invest in high-quality outdoor furniture that can withstand various weather conditions. If you have the space, it's also wise to opt for a mix of seating options. Benches, picnic tables, lounge chairs, even hammocks – by catering to different preferences and situations, your employees can remain comfortable while outdoors. For instance, the use of tables allows them to have lunch, work, or better interact with their coworkers. 

Greenery and Landscaping 

To significantly enhance your outdoor area's ambiance and aesthetic appeal, you should always look to incorporate greenery into this space. Potted plants, flower beds, shrubs, and trees add beauty while contributing to a calm, refreshing environment. 

Think about adding a variety of plants that bloom in different seasons to ensure the area remains attractive year-round. If possible, incorporate elements like a small garden or water feature to include that extra touch of tranquillity. 

Shaded and Sheltered Areas 

For the few days of hot weather experienced by the UK each year, it is important to deliver shaded areas for comfort. The likes of pergolas or large umbrellas can be used to create shaded spots where employees can relax without being exposed to direct sunlight. 

More importantly, you'll want to create a sheltered area for protection against rain and harsher climates. A gazebo or small pavilion can offer full protection from the elements. This results in your company's outdoor space remaining functional and comfortable throughout the year, encouraging more frequent use by employees. 

Smoking Shelters 

Extending on from the previous point, you should accommodate smokers and vapers in a considerate manner. This is essential for achieving harmony and inclusivity in the workplace. Begin by designating a specific area away from the main outdoor seating for smokers. Then, select a suitable smoking shelter, like those available via seton.co.uk, for your space that offers adequate protection. Comfortable seating and bins for waste disposal can complement this. 

By supplying a designated area for smokers and vapers, you can create a more pleasant, smoke-free environment for non-smokers – while also respecting the needs of all employees. 

Outdoor Amenities  

Want to make your outdoor area more engaging and enjoyable? Consider adding amenities that cater to a variety of interests. You can set up a BBQ grill for occasional team lunches, for example, or choose an outdoor game like table tennis for fun and exercise during breaks. Additionally, a sound system for playing ambient music can create a more relaxing atmosphere.