Outdoor Offices, Reinvented: Why Heat Is the New Power Tool for Remote Work

The rise of the outdoor office

In the aftermath of the 2020 pandemic, remote work skyrocketed - and it’s here to stay. As of 2025, nearly 20% of U.S. employees work remotely, and the number continues to grow. But what began as a functional adjustment has evolved into a lifestyle shift. According to a study by Future Workplace, 78% of employees say access to natural light improves their well-being, and 70% report better work performance when they’re exposed to daylight during the day. Another survey by FlexJobs found that 75% of remote workers experience screen fatigue, making time outdoors even more essential.

Today’s professionals are stepping out of dim corners and into dynamic environments - choosing natural light, fresh air, and calming outdoor views to support mental well-being. Outdoor workspaces help reduce stress, spark creativity, and increase productivity. Yet, one thing often holds people back: comfort.

That’s where heated outdoor furniture comes in - bridging the gap between inspiration and usability, and making the “work-from-anywhere” lifestyle truly viable year-round.

The cold truth: Why heat matters

According to NABLFLOW, wind speeds above 4.5 mph significantly reduce comfort for outdoor activities, with speeds above 6–7 mph becoming unpleasant. Add in the discomfort of damp conditions or cloudy skies, and even the most beautiful space loses its appeal. In fact, weather consistently ranks as the #1 reason people avoid working outside - even when the benefits of fresh air and natural light are clear.

But what if outdoor workspaces were no longer dictated by the forecast?

Outmore’s heated outdoor furniture offers a climate-controlled solution designed specifically for open-air environments. Unlike indoor space heaters or bulky blankets, Outmore delivers focused, cordless warmth exactly where you need it - without the restriction of an outlet or extension cord. The result: steady comfort even when wind picks up or temperature dips. With adjustable levels that respond to your environment, it becomes realistic to work outside year-round, not just in spring and summer.

Cordless freedom: Work where you want, when you want

One of the biggest frustrations of outdoor office design is power access. Traditional plug-in heaters and lamps require cords, outlets, and workaround solutions - limiting how and where you can work. Outmore’s cordless heated outdoor furniture removes those constraints entirely.

“Layout freedom” means you’re no longer bound by outlet location. Whether your ideal workspace is on a shaded balcony, across the lawn, or in the quietest corner of your patio, the furniture goes where you do - without compromising heat or comfort.

Each battery has up to 10 hours battery life on a single charge - enough to cover a full workday outside. Compared to plug-in options, setup is virtually instant. No cables to route, no safety hazards to work around - just position, power on, and settle in.

This kind of design doesn’t just enhance your space visually - it transforms how you use it. Flexibility becomes a function. Power becomes portable. And your workday becomes untethered.

Designing the ideal heated outdoor office

An outdoor office only works if it works for you - visually, functionally, and logistically. Whether you're transforming a small balcony or an entire backyard, thoughtful setup makes all the difference. Here's a design checklist to make your outdoor office productive, polished, and practical:

  1. Prioritize positioning - Place your seating with your back to the sun for the best laptop screen visibility. Natural light is great - but direct glare isn’t.

  2. Use layered seating for posture + posture breaks - Combine a heated lounge piece with an upright chair nearby. Switch positions throughout the day to prevent stiffness.

  3. Add a side table for gear and coffee - Keep essentials within reach - laptops, chargers, notepads, and your go-to afternoon drink.

  4. Include soft accessories that support productivity - Add a lumbar cushion, footrest, or even a lap desk to maximize comfort and reduce body strain.

  5. Test WiFi reach before settling in - Position your furniture near a window or WiFi extender to ensure a reliable signal. No one wants a frozen Zoom face mid-presentation.

  6. Minimize distractions with thoughtful boundaries - Use tall planters, privacy panels, or even string lights to softly define your "work zone" without fully closing it off.

  7. Choose heat settings by location - If your setup is in a shaded or breezy area, opt for Level 2 or 3 heat. If you’re in full sun, Level 1 may be all you need.

These tweaks help your outdoor office go beyond aesthetics - transforming it into a place where you can actually get things done, no matter the season.

From zoom to zen: How heat enhances focus

Heat doesn’t just keep you warm - it can improve your cognitive function. Research shows that your environment has a huge impact on how productive you are. Physical warmth increases concentration, reduces distraction, and even supports memory retention. 

In addition, studies from the Cornell University Ergonomics Lab shows that when temperatures dip below 71°F, error rates rise and productivity declines. Outmore’s Level 2 and 3 heat settings are designed to maintain that optimal range - so you can stay focused, even outside.

Paired with natural surroundings, heated outdoor furniture creates an environment that feels less like a makeshift office and more like a curated escape - ideal for creativity, deep work, and stress relief.

Outdoor workspaces in action

Heated outdoor furniture isn’t just a design trend - it’s becoming a real productivity tool for professionals across industries and lifestyles. From fast-paced startups to flexible student schedules, here’s how different types of remote workers are integrating Outmore into their daily rhythm:

1. Outmore Living Startup Founder: Kevin Long

“Before starting my busy work day, I have coffee and read the news in our shaded front porch. Even when it’s 75 degrees, the lowest heat level is very therapeutic on my back and is a great way to start the day. Throughout the day, I take calls and breaks outside, sitting in the sun on my Outmore furniture. I’ve found that these small breaks outside help keep my energy up while increasing my focus throughout the day.”

2. Corporate Freelancer: Rick Lundbom

“When I’m working from home, I feel more relaxed and creative being outdoors. My OutMore chair has basically become my second office. In the mornings when it’s cool, the heat makes it super comfortable to start the day outside. It’s a great change from being stuck at a desk, and being able to plug my laptop right into the battery is a pretty great bonus.”

3. College Student-Athlete at Baylor University: Grace Lundbom

“When I’m home from college, Outmore’s heated outdoor furniture gives me a quiet, comfortable space to reset and recharge. Whether I’m studying for exams, catching up on assignments, or stretching after dance practice, having a warm, cordless setup outside helps me stay focused and relaxed. It’s made my downtime more intentional and my study time more productive as a busy student-athlete.”

From startup founders to students, these testimonials  show that heated outdoor furniture isn’t just about comfort - it’s a productivity upgrade. To see more real-world applications of Outmore's furniture in both private and commercial settings, visit the Outmore Locations Directory.

The future of work is flexible - and warm

Remote work is here to stay. And as professionals continue to prioritize wellness, design, and autonomy, heated outdoor furniture will play a vital role in shaping what modern productivity looks like.

It’s not just about staying warm - it’s about designing outdoor spaces that support the way you live and work. Discover the  Solerno Collection  to see how comfort and productivity come together, season after season.