When many of us hear the word ‘design’ our thoughts instantly turn to the concept of how something looks rather than how efficient it is.
With years of TV programmes that feature interior designers and their judicious use of scatter cushions and mood boards, it is easy to forget that a great deal of design decisions are taken at the research and development stage.
A well-designed garden office pod is no different in this regard. Initial designs should carefully consider the best possible outcomes in terms of ergonomics and efficiency. This is especially important when you are likely to be spending a number of hours each day in your external office.
Therefore, a well-designed office pod is actually one that has been well-engineered. The careful interpretation of how that pod is put together and with a particular selection of materials is all the more important. Take the example of E-spaces Design and Create Ltd. who have clearly considered a complete design rather than take an existing log cabin or shed and repurpose it as a garden office pod.
The consideration of design to provide a durable and comfortable space is evident. The galvanised steel base allows the pod to be moved if needed and provides incredible strength across the unit. Designing an external composite cladding provides a range of benefits from adding additional strength (as composite will not twist and warp like wood) as well as providing a fire retardant external layer.
E-spaces Design and Create Ltd. have also thought very carefully about the design of their roof and the material within it. Having a vapour barrier, air gap and insulation provides the same level of standards that building control would expect on the construction of a house. The curved design and pod characteristic means that guttering is not necessary and the interlinked metal roof tiles not only create a watertight barrier on a low pitch, but also provide real strength across the entire build. While this might not seem important, having such a rigid structure when considering wind loads or snow loads is paramount.
Good design in your garden office means careful consideration of that internal layout to maximise energy efficiency. The e-Den design highlights this in action with a high curved back that cleverly reflects daylight across the curve to maximise natural light. The flush-fit LED low wattage lighting performs the same function when there is no daylight. The curve also provides much better air movement; as the warm air rises it is cooled on the curve to fall back down again. As this process repeats continually, the air flow is maintained. While this allows the e-Den to be cooler in the summer and warm in the winter, far more important is that this air flow prevents the occurrence of damp and condensation within the interior. This keeps the office pod clean and comfortable to work in. It also circulates warm air from the heater more efficiently meaning it heats very quickly and maintains its temperature on the thermostat so much more.
Do not underestimate the value of great design! As the E-spaces team have proven, a great deal of time, effort and calculation goes into a well-designed garden office pod. While it may not be apparent at first glance, opting for a garden office where good design has been integrated throughout will provide you with a purchase that could last for up to 50 years while retaining an efficient and comfortable working environment.
