How Does Biointensitive Gardening Work

Working from home has become the norm for many and we've adapted areas of our personal spaces to function for us professionally, be it an office room, a corner of the living room or the kitchen table.

But, as we enter spring and summer, how can we move our working-from-home spaces out into the garden or onto the balcony and reap the benefits of some fresh air and sunshine while we work?

To successfully WFG (work from the garden), there are a few tech and comfort issues to address to make sure your outdoor working is practical and functional:

1. Garden design

Before setting up, think about where in your garden is the best place to set up shop. Consider the position of the sun, the temperature and easy access to the house or a power source. Perhaps you have a shed or summerhouse with wide open doors that could be repurposed as a garden office? Read our guide on how to zone off areas of your garden and create seamless boundaries.

2. Tech and practicalities

It's important to make sure you can see your laptop screen in the bright outdoors, using a sunshade. Similarly, when on video calls and in virtual meetings you need to make sure you can be seen and heard properly, using the right tech accessories.

3. Comfort

Finally, it's just as much about comfort and niceties too, so a comfy seat pad or cushion and a picnic jug for refreshments will lift your WFG space.

Here's everything you need to work from your garden or outdoor space...

Sunshades for your laptop screen

Glare from the sun can make it almost impossible to see your laptop, tablet or phone screen so investing in a laptop sunshade is the best place to start. It will prevent you from squinting and tilting the screen at an uncomfortable angle, meaning you can be just as productive.

THINK TANK Pixel Sunscreen V2 Messenger Bag

Think Tank amazon.co.uk

£69.00

Rantow Foldable Phone / Tablet Monitor Sunshade

Rantow amazon.co.uk

£11.49

PChOOD Monitor Hood - Pro

PCHOOD laptop hood sunshade 14/15inch for macbook 16 macbook air pro 15" asus hp

Computer accessories for working outdoors

A headset for your laptop means you can retain good sound quality when joining virtual meetings outside and the dog barking or your neighbour's lawn mower won't be too imposing. An ergonomic mouse and mouse mat is also good for posture and comfort, indoors or outdoors.

MX Master 3 Wireless Darkfield Mouse

Ask an owner currys.co.uk

£99.99

Logitech H340 USB Headset

Logitech currys.co.uk

£26.99

Green Tribal Arrows Arrowheads Mouse Mat

Sublime Creation Shop Etsy

£9.99

APPLE Magic Wireless Keyboard - White

APPLE currys.co.uk

£84.99

Outdoor cushions and seat pads for comfort

Bring a pop of colour to your outdoor desk space with a fun seat pad to sit on or a cushion to support your back.

Set of 4, 6 or 8 Small Bees Reversible Square Seat Pads

John Lewis & Partners Seat Pad, Green / Multi

john johnlewis.com

£10.00

Set of 2 Palm Print Outdoor Cushions

marksandspencer.com

£17.00

Cotton Mix Tufted Tassled Cushion

marksandspencer.com

£19.50

Seat Pad

gardentrading.co.uk

£18.00

Hampstead Bench Seat Pad

hampstead bench gardentrading.co.uk

£30.00

Garden Seat Cushion (Set of 4)

Bean Bag Bazaar wayfair.co.uk

£75.99

Seat Cushion

17 Stories wayfair.co.uk

£31.99

Garden tableware to spark joy

A bright and cheerful cup or mug to drink from goes a long way in lifting spirits. Treat yourself to dedicated WFG tableware to get you in the right headspace.

John Lewis & Partners Striped Plastic Tumblers, Set of 4

john johnlewis.com

£15.00

John Lewis & Partners Fun Plastic Tumblers, 400ml, Set of 4, Clear/Multi

john johnlewis.com

£15.00

John Lewis & Partners Recycled Glass-Effect Fluted Picnic Bowls

Royal Doulton Pacific Melamine Salad Plate, Set of 4, Blue, Dia.20.5cm

Royal Doulton johnlewis.com

£20.00

Black Toast Elderflower Cordial Tall Straight Jug

emmabridgewater.co.uk

£69.95

Tropical Jungle Large Lemon Picnic Platter

marksandspencer.com

£7.50

Recycled Glass Drinks Dispenser

Recycledandnatural Etsy

£40.00

Sailing Boat Enamel Mug

RolfeAndWillsDesign Etsy

£12.99

Outdoor blankets for early starts

It may be warming up but, for early birds, mornings could still hold a slight chill. A stylish outdoor blanket can be draped over your lap or shoulders for extra warmth.

John Lewis & Partners Elevation Throw, Grey

john johnlewis.com

£35.00

John Lewis & Partners Fleece Throw, Mustard, L180 x W140cm

john johnlewis.com

£12.00

Cotton Mix Monochrome Woven Stripe Throw

marksandspencer.com

£29.50

Woven Geometric Throw

marksandspencer.com

£29.50

Garden parasols to create shade

Green and Gold Cotton Garden Parasol with Fringe

JakJakHome Etsy

US$215.00

This decorative parasol is small, perfect for sunbathing under or for providing shade over one or two garden chairs, as opposed to a whole table. The green and gold design, made my artisans in Bali, is beautiful and will add a focal point to any garden. There is also an intricate wood carving on the top of the umbrella and on the top half of the pole.

Henley by KETTLER 3m Freestanding Parasol

John Lewis & Partners John Lewis & Partners

£329.00

This is a functional garden parasol, perfect for sheltering an outdoor table and chairs. It is operated by an easy wind-up mechanism with six locking positions for selecting the right protection from the sun. In addition, with 360° free-arm rotation, the base doesn't need to be moved when raising and lowering the parasol.

Gold Painted White Cotton Garden Parasol

Another more decorative parasol, this white and gold design will compliment a garden with any colour or border scheme. Cream tassels line the edge with shells attached, which make a subtle sound in a breeze. The umbrella is made from bamboo and durian wood which is native to Indonesia.

Palm Leaf Parasol

Not On The High Street

£140.00

Want to recreate that holiday feeling in your garden? Then this palm leaf parasol is perfect. Imagine sipping cocktails under it on a sun lounger. Made from synthetic palm leaves, this design adds an exotic touch and would look perfect alongside a garden bar.

SEGLARÖ / SVARTÖ

This easy-to-use IKEA garden parasol can be tilted and rotated to provide the perfect amount of shelter, shade and UV-ray protection. The free-hanging design means it can be adjusted so that no part of it restricts your view.

Garden Parasol With Bead Trim Sea Green

Not On The High Street

£150.00

The hanging heart beads on this pastel green garden parasol are a lovely extra touch and bring a playful element to your outdoor space. It would look lovely paired with green outdoor cushions and throws.

Parasol With Tassel Trim

Not On The High Street

US$160.00

The wooden pole and cream umbrella make this garden parasol versatile for any patio or lawn, with the decorative addition of hanging tassels. A matching hammock is also available.

Nude And Mustard Fringed Beach Umbrella

Not On The High Street

US$320.00

Perfect for the beach or in your garden, this striped parasol makes a real statement, adding colour and character to any space. It is made using a beech wood pole, steel wire ribs and polyester fabric. It comes with a matching fabric carrier bag, too.

KUGGÖ / LINDÖJA

This 3 metre wide garden parasol is perfect for covering a table of four. Simply fill the accompanying base with sand to hold it down. The parasol canopy is sold separately and easily replaced.

Wood-Effect Wind-Up Parasol, 2.2m

John Lewis & Partners

£59.00

Simple, classic and effective, this garden parasol from John Lewis would suit any outdoor space.

Barlow Tyrie Napoli Round Parasol, 2.8m

Barlow Tyrie John Lewis & Partners

£1,115.00

This is a classic and elegant garden parasol design. The stem is made using eucalyptus wood and the sturdy metal base is included. The parasol detaches from the base to fit through garden tables with parasol holes.

Wood-Effect Wind-Up Striped Parasol, 2.7m, Navy/White

John Lewis John Lewis & Partners

£79.00

This striped white and navy parasol is so much fun. It's operated by an easy wind-up mechanism and is available in multiple sizes so you can opt for the one which will best suit your table and chairs.

Shanghai Red Cantilever Parasol

Looking to bring a bold pop of colour to your garden? This red cantilever parasol is 3m high. The parasol comes with a base, however it does require quarter parasol weights for stable use.

Royal Craft Brushed Aluminium Crank and Tilt Parasol

The sturdy and lightweight rust-free metal frame is a highlight of this Crank and Tilt cream garden parasol. This is the price for the parasol only – the base is not included.

Carousel Grey Crank and Tilt Parasol

Another Crank and Tilt parasol from Dunelm, this grey option features tassels for added decoration. Bases and weights are not included.

Parasol base: Half Round Freestanding Parasol Flat Base Weight

john John Lewis & Partners

£50.00

A simple and not overly chunky parasol base. It's freestanding, allowing you to position perfectly.

Parasol base: Granite Slabs Parasol Base Weights, 60kg, Pack of 4, Grey

John Lewis John Lewis & Partners

£99.00

Solid and hard-wearing granite slabs are totally weather-proof and will keep your freestanding parasol secure. Place between the legs of a freestanding parasol base to provide support and stability.

Parasol base: Cast Iron Parasol Patio Umbrella Base Heavy Duty

Magnifique By Maria Etsy

£69.99

A more decorative parasol base, this cast iron option is heavy duty so you might not want to move it regularly.

Parasol base: Parasol Base Weight, Granite, 30kg

John Lewis & Partners John Lewis & Partners

£59.00

A stylish granite parasol base with easy-to-adjust tightening screws.

Parasol base: Fillable Cantilevered Parasol Base Weights, Black

John Lewis & Partners John Lewis & Partners

£39.50

Compatible with freestanding parasols, this set of plastic base weights can be filled with up to 90kg of water to make sure your parasol stays in place. The four-part bases can be emptied for easier storage.

Like this article? Sign up to our newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox.

Looking for some positivity? Get Country Living magazine posted through your letterbox every month. SUBSCRIBE NOW

32 of the best garden furniture sets

Trabella Roma Dining Set

This reasonably-priced set looks smart and modern. Thanks to the polypropylene material, it's easy to wipe clean – and the chairs are stackable.

Wooden Conversation Set

We're looking forward to sunny days relaxing with family outside. This FSC-certified wooden garden furniture set will make a lovely addition to your space. There's even a table for your glass of Pimms.

Bambrick Garden Dining Set

This square dining set would look lovely tucked in a corner, or would make a good option if your patio area is on the small side.

Misali 6 Seater Garden Dining Set

Rule of six gathering, anyone?

Rochester Hardwood Grey Sofa Set

How chic is this? International travel is still off the cards for now, but sitting on this glamorous sofa set in your garden might be the next best thing.

Arc En Ciel Steel Bistro Set

A classic little bistro set, perfect for popping on your balcony for al fresco breakfasts in the sun.

Lyra Garden Hanging Chair

We can just see ourselves curled up in this chair reading a book.

Yuri Garden Bench

Made has a range of bright and beautiful garden furniture this season – we love the contrasting greens and pinks of this modern bench.

Topa Garden Corner Lounge Unit

Made made.co.uk

£1,299.00

Your patio is about to get a serious upgrade. There's plenty of space for the whole family here – plus ample room for everyone's drinks too.

Swara Garden Dining Set

Rattan furniture looks great, but the real deal isn't especially well suited to the great outdoors. This polyrattan option is a great alternative, so you don't have to compromise on the look you want.

Outdoor 4-Piece Dining Set

This set wouldn't look out of place in your living room so, if you like a indoor/outdoor living feel, this would be a great choice.

Kennet Reclining Dining Set

Along with four (reclining) chairs and a table, this set also comes with a parasol, making it great value for money.

Garden Picnic Table

On a budget? You don't need to scrimp on space. Here's a classic picnic table, with plenty of room to sit around for Saturday barbecues.

Set of 2 Lois Garden Armchairs

Cheer up dreary outside spaces with this cheery set of chairs. There's plenty of matching furniture (in a selection of colours) in this range, so feel free to mix-and-match.

Capri Garden Sofa

This sofa is the perfect combination of rustic charm and modern styling.

Extrusion Bar Dining Set

Charles Bentley wilko.com

£530.00

Create a real outdoor bar feel in your garden with this tall dining set. Now you just need an outdoor drinks cart and you're all set.

Folding Metal Bistro Set

Charles Bentley wilko.com

£75.00

Here's another sweet bistro set – we love the pale green hue.

5 Piece Garden Conversation Set

Time for sunbathing, anyone?

Faux Rattan Bistro Set

Another great one for those who enjoy the rattan look.

Outdoor Indoor Sectional Corner Sofa Set

Outsunny

This sofa set can be used indoors and outdoors, so it's a good one to deck out your conservatory with, we think.

Vallarta Indoor/Outdoor Stool

Need something to brighten up your drab patio? Anthropologie is well known for its beautiful decorative designs and this gorgeous indoor/outdoor stool is no exception.

Bamboo Garden Table Sett

HomeimprovementGB

US$179.00

Here's another garden furniture set that will help you recreate the feeling of being at a bar on a far-flung beach. Be quick if you're interested in this, though, there's only one available.

Camley Table Set

Garden Trading always has such sophisticated furniture pieces – we especially love this roomy anthracite grey bench set for six. There's a two-seater version, as well.

Valencia garden suite

Barker & Stonehouse

£1,499.00

Remember having guests? Soon enough, we can have everyone piled around the table for summer barbecues. This huge, cosy set will ensure there's enough seating for everyone for your first big bash after lockdown.

Willow hanging chair

Barker & Stonehouse

£549.00

Another cosy hanging chair – this one is very bohemian.

Ipanema 2 Coffee Tables

A splash of yellow just makes any space a bit more inviting. This is a great price for two outdoor tables, too.

Trough 2 Seater Bistro Set

This bistro set has a trough at the end to keep your drinks cold while you relax. Very handy.

Pallet Sofa

EuroPalletFurniture

US$150.00

Using pallets as furniture is an low cost, low environmental impact way to ensure there's plenty of seating in your garden. It looks striking, as well.

2 Person Macrame Hammock

AlchemyVibesForYou

US$96.00

We're pretty sure we can find our zen lying in this hammock – even during a global pandemic.

Karina Rattan Lounge Chair

Perch & Parrow perchandparrow.com

£230.00

For long evenings spent relaxing outside, you need a lounge chair. Paired with a bright, textured cushion, this natural rattan number would look great sitting on your decking or patio.

Hampstead Bench

Forget boring garden benches – this outdoor rattan sofa will give your garden seating area a sophisticated upgrade.

Hanging Bell Tent

At just under £1000, this item is a bit of a splurge purchase – but there's no denying this is the dream setup for long sunny days at home.

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io