Working from home has now become a piece of common everyday language in today’s modern setting. But how can you adapt this modern lifestyle to your home to fit your present-day needs?
Queue Edward, an international entrepreneur and founder of The Great Outdoors (www.thegreatoutdoors.nl/). A kiwi (New Zealander) with Dutch parents, immigrating a bit of New Zealand to the Netherlands, in the best way possible, with a “Work Island”. Curious? You should be, the idea is innovative, unique, and financially advantageous.
Edward – The Great Outdoors
What is “The Great Outdoors”?
Edward was inspired by New Zealand’s backyard life. “The New Zealand way of outdoor barbequing, being outside, with your kids playing sport. The idea of having cricket on your porch, while your kids are playing cricket” (Edward).
Expanding on this sense of community & kinship, this laid way for the foundation of the Work Islands. Evolving the idea past outdoor kitchens and into garden offices, Edward said that “You don’t buy a kitchen table to put an office chair there. Building extensions don’t fix the problem, you still have the same room. With a Work Island, you feel like you are leaving your home.”
Edward and Co. visit their clients after installation, and here is what he says about the room: “During the day, until 1500 it is my office, however, I notice there are some lego blocks, then there is a tv hung with a PlayStation. When I ask my clients how is it used, they say it is the most popular room in the house. Everyone wants to be here, during the day it is my office, from 3-6 the kids play here, and then we might have a glass of wine here at the end of the day. Have friends over to watch football, and the weekend it becomes an extra room for the family.” In short, a real, multifunctional room.
Who is the typical outdoorsperson?
Edward: “Private & Business. People who have a practice, such as physiotherapists, psychiatrists, or accountants. Also, a lot of people do it for themselves privately, as an investment for their property. The private sector is saying yes I want office space, but I also want a room to put my teenage kids because I want to watch Netflix on my own. Also, think of young families with a kid on the way. What we can provide, is you get that extra room, and expand your house, so you don’t have to move. If you ask us who our typical customer is – someone with a garden” (Edward).
Sounds great, what else is in it for me
In addition to the opportunity cost savings (think moving, closing costs, office rental savings), there are also sustainability benefits. Firstly, the working island will be the best insulated room in the house, which also means the cheapest to heat. Secondly, there are also green energy options being offered, such as solar panels. “Thanks to modern technology, solar panels have become less of an eyesore, lying flat on your ceiling as opposed to standing tall, blocking the view and the sun.” (Edward)
How long does it take to construct and deliver
Edward: “When someone orders, the first process is standing in their garden, giving them a run down and possibilities. After the building plans are drawn (approximately a week), we order the windows (approximately 8 weeks). Then we construct the whole unit (A week and a half). After completion, the unit rolls out the door and is delivered to your home. Then it is plug and play, everything will be useable the same day as the delivery.”
There are four Work Islands to choose from Kapiti Standard, Kapiti Compact, Waiheke, and Matakana, ranging in different sizes, and features. For more detailed information click here.
What Klår can do for you!
Planning on investing in your own Work Island, this is where we come in. There are several financing options available, based on factors that include but are not limited to: the amount you wish to borrow, the sustainability impact, and for example your current mortgage agreement. We can help you plan out what options you have available in a relaxed, and hassle free way.
Can you picture a working island addition to your home? Did we spark some new questions? Reach out to us! We would love to hear from you and we love sharing our insights.
Do you have any questions?
