Best Outdoor Office Pods for Working from Home in 2024
Table of Contents
- What Is the Meaning of the Term Office Pod?
- Why Have Outdoor Home Office Pod Options Become More Popular?
- Best Outdoor Work Pod Choices You Are Going to Love
- 1. Autonomous WorkPod
- 2. Autonomous WorkPod Versatile
- 3. Thinktanks Compact Office Pod
- 4. Autonomous WorkPod mini
- 5. The Bunkie: Premier Deluxe
- 6. PopUpHut Office Pod
- 7. Igloo Pod
- 8. Rolling Prefab House
- 9. Small Sphere Pod
- 10. Tetra Shed
- 11. Ten-seater Glass Sphere Pod
- 12. PoppinPod
- 13. ÖÖD Home Office
- 14. The OfficePOD
- Benefits of An Outdoor Office Pod
- Things to Consider
- Final Remarks
It's very understandable if the concept of an outdoor office pod is foreign to you. With all the office trends that have been taking shape, it has been one of the less celebrated milestones in the consistent evolution of what work looks like.
One can always say it is a step in the right direction as more people realize the potential for work to be a thing that is done as opposed to a place to be. If you are not convinced, consider what a workspace looked like a decade ago versus what it is now.
It was all about the traditional offices back then. Who would have expected that a home office computer setup would become a viable concern and even a standard?
Now, people are doing all they can to revolutionize their workspaces at home to become more productive, and outdoor office sheds contribute greatly to this goal. For some, the trend spells the best home office setup they have ever had. For others, it's a little bit more on the experimental side.
Whatever side of the fence you may stand on, having some options to choose from makes browsing home office pods that much easier. The idea here is to clue you in on what this concept entails, followed by a provision of 15 of the best choices on the market. Doesn't that sound like the kind of information you want to delve into?
What Is the Meaning of the Term Office Pod?
What comes to your mind when you hear the term home office pod? Do you imagine yourself in a relatively small space working and getting various tasks done? If so, then you are very much on the right track.
Instead of using a room in your house that may or may not be dedicated to a secondary purpose, an outdoor home office pod creates somewhere that you can work in solitude and focus on the tasks at hand.
Of course, you don't have to use your work pod for home alone if you don't want to. Some models are large enough to accommodate two persons working simultaneously, which might be incredibly convenient for households in which multiple earners are working from home.
However, the traditional design and intention for a work pod for home are for single-person accommodation. The outdoor office pod can have one of a series of different aesthetic styles. However, it always ends up being the equivalent of a small single-room building erected outside for your productivity.
The construction allocations necessary for essentials, such as electricity tend to be taken care of by the manufacturer. So, if your garden office pod is well built, you should be able to move your modern office furniture in and get started without having to take on any further construction tasks.
Why Have Outdoor Home Office Pod Options Become More Popular?
The popularity of outdoor office pods comes from a desire to be able to create an environment that is conducive to the best possible work ethic, which should theoretically lead to the greatest level of productivity.
Imagine if your workspace is your living room, for example. Distractions, such as your television may lead you to compromise on the kind of output you could be getting from yourself. Though home offices are more popular than ever, no one can deny the impact that the typical work environment has on ensuring that you feel as if you need to be productive.
The office pod guarantees that to you at home, while taking you out of the relaxed environment that your house may offer. Even so, it brings the convenience of having your home situated right beside your office.
If nothing else, it means proper separation of concerns, which translates to a better work-life balance. This goes doubly if you opt for a soundproof work pod.
You also find that there are a host of other benefits, including eliminating transit time, saving on the cost of adding an office to your home, and even the ability to get more family time.
Best Outdoor Work Pod Choices You Are Going to Love
With all the introductory information out of the way, it's time to delve into the various work pod options that you can choose from, which should help to guide your eventual choice.
1. Autonomous WorkPod
You may be wondering how this backyard work pod is any different from the previous listing. As far as the building goes, there is no difference. However, what if you want to get an outdoor office pod along with top-tier office equipment?
The Autonomous Workpod is the main offering, and it includes an office standing desk and ergonomic chair. The success of the SmartDesk and ErgoChair lines is well documented, and now you can get your hands on the full package.
WorkPod
Overall size | 8.5’W x 12’L x 11’H |
Floorspace | 102 square feet |
Ceiling height | 6.8’ to 9.3’ |
Weight capacity | 2.9 tons |
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass) | Main door: 7.5’W x 6.8'H 3 windows: 1.1’W x 7.9’H Window material: Wooden frame, 5/16” tempered glass, composite wood cover Door material: Anodized aluminum frame, 5/16” tempered glass |
Siding, roof, floor & balcony material | Siding: Plywood 1/2”, wooden frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8”, bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding Roof: Roof shingles Floor: Plywood Balcony: Composite wood |
Electrical devices | 1 RCB (Residual current breaker) 3 Wall outlet (Universal wall sockets) 1 Ceiling light switch 1 Ceiling light 1 Ventilator switch 1 Ventilator 66ft power cable with 2 connectors |
Power input | Maximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard) Maximum current: 25A Maximum power dissipation: 2750W |
Interior furniture | Unfurnished option: 1 Bookshelf, 1 Electrical Cabinet Furnished option: 1 SmartDesk Connect, 1 ErgoChair Ultra, 1 Monitor Arm, 1 Cable Tray, 1 Filing Cabinet, 1 Anti-Fatigue Mat, 1 Bookshelf, 1 Electrical Cabinet |
Compatible with | Portable air conditioner: A/C units with dimensions smaller than 22” L x 20” W x 88” H and a 5.9” vent hole diameter will fit well. Heater: A small personal heater is more than sufficient. |
- Handy homeowners
- Professionals who need a quiet, dedicated space to work from home
- Freelancers who require a focused environment away from household distractions
- Permit-free
- Zero foundation preparation
- Built with weatherproof and soundproof materials
- Pre-wired with ambient lighting and outlets
- Ready in 3 days
- Requires sufficient outdoor space which may not be available to everyone
- May require additional setup for internet and other connectivity
2. Autonomous WorkPod Versatile
A modern prefab studio shed that can be set up in your very own backyard in as little as 1-2 days. WorkPod Versatile is a dream backyard studio where you can work, play, create, and live in. Fully fitted out with a desk, wardrobe, shelves, electrical cabinet, tv stand, coffee table, and even a sofa bed.
This free standing unit is quality defined, with 7 layer walls that protects against the elements, insulates, and blocks out the noise all year round. Fully wired, just plug your assembled WorkPod Versatile to a power source and you’re ready to move in.
WorkPod Versatile
Overall size | 8’4”W x 12’6”L x 9’10”H |
Floorspace | 105 square feet |
Ceiling height | 7’3” |
Weight capacity | 2.9 tons |
Pedestal | 18”W x 43”L x 7”H |
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass) | Main door: 39”W x 89”H Large window: 59”W x 81”H Small window: 39”W x 39”H Window & door material: Powder coated aluminum, 5/16” tempered glass |
Siding, roof, floor & balcony material | Siding: Plywood 1/2”, steel frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8”, bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding Roof: Roof shingles Floor: Plywood Pedestal: Steel frame & wood plastic composite |
Electrical devices | 1 RCB (Residual current breaker) |
Power input | Maximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard) Maximum current: 25A Maximum power dissipation: 2750W |
Furniture (optional) | Cabinet, Desk, Small & Big Bookshelf, TV Shelf, Foldable Sofa Table & Electrical Cabinet* (*Electrical Cabinet always included) |
- Handy homeowners
- Professionals who need a quiet, dedicated space to work from home
- Freelancers who require a focused environment away from household distractions
- Assemble with ease in just a couple of days, skip the permits
- Durable build with high-quality materials
- Smaller footprint, suitable for limited outdoor spaces
- Pre-wired and equipped with multiple outlets
- Affordability
- Smaller interior space may not be sufficient for all needs
- May require additional setup for internet and other connectivity
3. Thinktanks Compact Office Pod
The Thinktanks Office Pod lets you work anywhere, indoors or outdoors, with instant privacy. It's spacious enough for a desk, chair, bookcase, and plants. The outdoor office pod includes built-in fans and AC, meeting Grade III waterproof standards with durable carbon plastic composite panels for excellent weather resistance. It offers up to 35 dB soundproofing with double pane tempered glass.
The integrated air conditioner provides 2500W cooling with environmentally friendly refrigerant. Equipped with 4000K natural light LED lighting, it ensures 1600Lux illumination. The electronic locks enhance security, making it a reliable, long-term solution for your workspace needs.
Thinktanks Office Pod
Ventilation | Built in Exhaust Fans |
---|---|
Sound Reduction | 35 Decibels |
Air Conditioning | Included (1) 1200W |
Interior | Washable PET Felt |
Size | 87 x 85.6 x 90.5 in |
Install Weight | 1,678 lbs |
Glass | Double Laminated Tempered |
Assembly | Included |
Powered By | Standard Outlet 110-220V |
4. Autonomous WorkPod mini
The WorkPod Mini offers an affordable gateway to a personalized backyard oasis. Immerse yourself in sleek design and top-notch construction without breaking the bank. Embrace minimalism and let your wallet rejoice. Shut the door on noise and distraction, enjoying complete privacy. Engineered for flexibility, it adapts seamlessly to your lifestyle. Whether it's a home office, extra bedroom, yoga studio, or gaming room, make WorkPod Mini your versatile haven.
Plug and play your way to ultimate comfort. Pre-wired and equipped with multiple outlets, the WorkPod Mini is ready for your personal touch. Connect to a power source, and you're set to move in and make it your own. Our solid steel framing, double-layered plywood, honeycomb paper, bitumen, house wrap, and vinyl foundation are rigorously tested for year-round protection. Assemble with ease, skip the permits, and enhance your space in just a couple of days – no lengthy waiting or expensive remodeling. Create your sanctuary hassle-free and bask in comfort, knowing you're shielded from the elements.
DThe WorkPod stands out from other brands by offering an all-inclusive setup, featuring a foundation and easy assembly that takes only 2-3 days. Unlike other options, the cost of the WorkPod covers essential elements such as windows, a door, and lifestyle interior features. The table below provides a detailed cost comparison between the WorkPod and other brands, emphasizing the value and convenience of choosing WorkPod.
WorkPod mini
Dimension | Overall size: 8’7"W x 9’L x 9’3"H Floorspace: 80 square feet Ceiling height: 7’3" Weight capacity: 2.3 tons (including Pod body) Pedestal: 24"W x 103"L x 9"H |
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass) | Main door: 37"W x 89"H (open side) & 33"W x 89"H (fixed side) Window: 43"W x 20"H Window & door material: Powder coated aluminum, 5/16" tempered glass |
Siding, roof, floor & balcony material | Siding: Plywood 1/2" , steel frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8", bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding Roof: Metal roofing Floor: Plywood Balcony & Pedestal: Steel frame & wood plastic composite |
Electrical devices | 1 RCB (Residual current breaker) 2 Wall outlet (Universal wall sockets) 1 Ceiling light switch 1 Ceiling light 1 Wall light 1 Ethernet wall port 66ft power cable with 2 connectors |
Power input | Maximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard) Maximum current: 25A Maximum power dissipation: 2750W |
- Handy homeowners
- Professionals who need a quiet, dedicated space to work from home
- Freelancers who require a focused environment away from household distractions
- Permit-free
- Stand on any terrain
- Durable build with high-quality materials
- Equipped with all the necessary sockets and connections
- Just a couple of days to build
- Requires sufficient outdoor space which may not be available to everyone
- May require additional setup for internet and other connectivity
5. The Bunkie: Premier Deluxe
This outdoor office shed screams traditional, yet there is an incredible level of attention to detail. Initially, it was meant to be an extended living space, but it's not hard to see where it would be adopted for work.
With tall wall-to-wall glass on two sides of the townhouse-shaped unit, they're perfect if you have a shaded area for an outdoor office shedfor the backyard. If you are planning to erect one in North America, no permit is needed.
6. PopUpHut Office Pod
You would not expect a rectangular-shaped backyard work pod to be anything visually special, yet this design from PopUpHut is nothing short of a visual stunner. Eco-friendly materials are used in its design, so environmentalists can enjoy this outdoor office pod too.
The creative combination of wood and glass is big enough to accommodate two workstations. It's not beyond the realm of possibility to even adapt this outdoor office shed for other uses, such as a guest room. The presence of insulation for comfort further reinforces this possibility.
7. Igloo Pod
Based on the definition of what an outdoor office pod is and what an igloo is, you have probably already imagined what this one looks like. The dome shape that is to be expected of an igloo is constructed with a transparent design here.
It's frameless, and the glass-like panels feature tremendous weather resistance. The design is large enough to fit eight people around the table, and it tends to work best as an outdoor office pod. Even during the colder months, you should experience just about no discomfort.
8. Rolling Prefab House
This one is a bit on the stranger side, and it comes from two University of Karlsruhe students. If you are on the DIY side of the spectrum, you might find this one incredibly fascinating. It's based on the concepts of mobile space and construction efficiency.
The cylindrical design features several leather areas that serve different purposes depending on the orientation of the rolling unit. One position gives you your office desk setup, while another allows you to rest on your bed.
9. Small Sphere Pod
The previous entry is a great segue into this outdoor office pod, as it is also small and futuristic. The difference, as its name would imply, is the spherical shape here, when compared to the rounded cube shape of the OfficePOD.
It's a stylish rotator sphere enclosure, which is best suited as an outdoor office pod for small or medium-sized spaces. The frame is not just for show, as one of the design choices is a rotatable entrance.
10. Tetra Shed
It's important to start this outdoor office pod off with a bit of disappointing news. The Tetra Shed is intended as a concept, so placing it here is mostly to get your creative juices flowing. It would be very hard to describe the futuristic shaping choices, so the recommendation is for you to go have a look for yourself.
The idea was to create an alternative to office cubicles, and it would be unfair to say that the objective was not achieved to a tremendous degree. Impressively enough, the design is made to accommodate daisy-chaining the units together if needed.
11. Ten-seater Glass Sphere Pod
This 10-seater glass sphere outdoor office pod is the final spherical design on the list, and it features a few quality-of-life design choices that are guaranteed to make your time in it feel more comfortable. These include soft LED desk lighting, sliding doors, a coffee and dining table, a Bluetooth audio system, and even a heater with a fan.
Interior color design is up to you, so high customization is present here. The inclusion of tinted windows and a sliding door complete the very stylish look. Additionally, stain and mold-resistant materials are used, so maintaining the interior is simple enough.
12. PoppinPod
PoppinPod is a company that offers several outdoor office pods in different sizes. You can choose from Om units, which are typically lower-priced and have reduced space, or perhaps the Kolo units, which are considerably bigger but more expensive, too.
The “Om units” are similar to phone boots in both design and size. However, they’re big enough for you to place the essential office furniture (an ergonomic chair and a desk) as well as your preferred peripherals.
If you’re looking for a cheap garden office pod, PoppinPods has some of the most competitive prices on the market, which are around $5,000 and beyond. It’s also worth noting that higher-priced units are more customizable.
13. ÖÖD Home Office
While it can be a bit complicated to start working at the ÖÖD Home Office (depending on your area of residence, you may be required to get a permit, and the foundation is also necessary), the perks are totally worth it.
Each unit has dimensions of 21 by 11 feet and has a total height of 11 feet. While it can be a bit costly, the pricing includes ventilation, temperature, lighting, and finishing work so you can get started with your work pod for home as soon as possible. However, please note that the price does not include electricity, water, or sewage works.
14. The OfficePOD
This UK-based company offers office pods that can be used indoors or outdoors. These pods were designed to be easily dismantled or relocated. Plus, it is compact but has enough space for you to build a cozy and comfortable home office where you can work comfortably daily.
Although it steps outside the traditional backyard office pod appearance, you will be able to build a comfortable space for home or entrepreneurial use. Another advantage is that it comes fully furnished if you choose to, and it doesn't require a foundation.
Benefits of An Outdoor Office Pod
Outdoor office pods can be quite beneficial for most users for different reasons. If you’re considering getting one for your everyday work, here we have a few considerations that you can take into account as they can contribute positively to your daily life.
1. Work-life Balance
Work-life balance is one of the biggest complications that people who work from home have at the moment. This situation happens primarily because it can be quite challenging to draw the line between your work life and personal life while working from home. However, with an outdoor office pod, you will be able to separate your work life from your home life easily as both will take place in different spaces.
2. More Privacy
Another challenge that remote workers face is being unable to work appropriately due to the external noise that prevents them from concentrating on the tasks at hand.
Outdoor office pods often come with soundproof features that "isolate" you from external noises, allowing you to be alone with your thoughts and concentrate on whatever you're doing at the moment easily.
3. Closer to Nature
Many studies have proven how beneficial it can be for remote workers to work in an environment where nature is present. Not only will you be able to improve your mood and reduce your stress, but you will also have it easier to focus on the tasks at hand.
Why Choose Autonomous WorkPod for Your Outdoor Office?
The WorkPod sets itself apart from other brands by providing all necessary setup components, including a foundation and quick assembly in just 2-3 days. The price of the WorkPod includes essential features such as windows, a door, and lifestyle-friendly interiors. The table below presents a detailed cost comparison between the WorkPod and other brands, emphasizing the WorkPod’s superior value and convenience.
Things to Consider
Prefab outdoor pods can be quite beneficial for anyone for multiple reasons. However, there are a few things that you should take into account before getting one of these spaces.
1. Temperature Concerns
Since you’ll be working from outside, it is important to equip the office pod with a good temperature system (AC or fan, for instance) that allows you to stay there for prolonged periods without it getting too hot.
2. Amount of Space
The amount of space also matters. Some people need more space than others. Hence, we highly recommend you determine how many things you need in your home office and what else you would like to have around so you can work comfortably without feeling overwhelmed. The space available is also one of the factors that determine the price.
3. Maintenance
You'll have to provide maintenance to your outdoor office pod regularly. Smaller office pods are easier to maintain, while bigger ones may require you to design a specific day to focus on providing maintenance to it, for instance.
4. Security
Last but not least, if you're looking for outdoor space ideas, please try not to overlook the security measures. Ensure that your outdoor office pod is safe during the hours you'll be outside of it to make sure that no intruders will mess with your space during your off time.
Final Remarks
Now you know all about what a prefab outdoor pod is, as well as some very solid options to choose from. Ensure you use this information wisely, so you bring yourself the greatest possible measure of convenience.
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