RACHEL’S TIPS FOR PLANNING A GARDEN OFFICE

Control your light levels

As my office faces north, I didn’t think

I’d need a window treatment, but with so much glass, it can be glaringly bright. I opted for vertical blinds for maximum flexibility. During the winter, it’s satisfying to draw them so I’m not looking out at swathes of dark. I also chose cool white LED spotlights rather than warm white to mimic daylight.

Maintain the temperature

One of the best things about working at home is being able to choose the environment you prefer rather than sweating or shivering in an office that’s too hotorcold.ifitteda Daikin air source heat pump (£2,500), which is incredibly efficient in the cooler months, and cools the space down on hot days.

Personalise your space

I enjoyed buying furniture I liked rather than utilitarian office pieces. The wool covering of my Eamesstyle chair is probably the least practical thing you could have in a shared office, but here it’s comfy and cosy. You can also add whatever brings you joy. I often swap around cushions and throws, pop some fresh flowers on my desk or have a fragrance diffuser on a shelf.

Be practical

I have a video doorbell (as I can’t hear people from my office), an umbrella for darting back into the house in the rain, and motion-sensor outdoor lighting. There’s also an armoured data cable that runs from the house, a backup power supply, and Wi-fi repeater discs to ensure I’m always connected.