England’s OfficePOD

Choosing to work from home is often a major decision: you have to consider the interruptions that might come with the territory, along with issues surrounding space.

In England, spare rooms that are converted into studies are not as common as they are in South Africa, but a smart new design is starting to change all that. It’s making working at home (or, more correctly, in the garden) an easy reality, even when space is restricted.

Introducing the OfficePOD, a space-saving, self-contained office that exceeds standard office accommodation regulations and requirements. The designers, Tate + Hindle, have come up with a contemporary design that’s conducive to productivity, while having a minimum possible impact on the environment in both manufacture and use.

Eco considerations were primary in the choice of materials: recycled, recyclable and sustainable materials have been chosen wherever possible and man-made materials only used where performance requirements dictated. The POD satisfies the most stringent energy performance benchmarks with its low energy consumption level, high levels of insulation and innovative cooling system.

The OfficePOD is 2.1m x 2.1m and does not require planning consent in the greater majority of cases. It’s modular design enables speedy construction, even in gardens with the most difficult access. Of special interest to South Africans is the fact that the POD has been created to provide appropriate security when both empty and occupied. The external and internal look and feel of the space, as well as the overall user experience, is the product of an extensive design process; one that we think has been well achieved.

Time will tell how the Brits respond to the OfficePOD and, if it’s positive, perhaps exports to former colonies will be considered, too!

For more information www.officepod.co.uk