- 40% of green-fingered Brits now choose the garden to unwind, ahead of scrolling on their phone
- Half of WFH Brits are swapping coffee breaks for time outdoors, with 41% planning to ditch the desk and work from their garden this summer
New research from premium housebuilder Redrow, revealed that relaxing in the garden has become one of the top ways Brits unwind at home, especially for those looking to boost their wellbeing while working remotely. The survey of over 2,000 UK adults showed that while streaming TV still leads the pack (57%) and going for a walk isn’t far behind (53%), 40% now say relaxing in the garden is their go-to way to unwind placing it ahead of scrolling on their phone (39%) or having a shower (31%). Over a third (34%) of Brits have also revealed that gardening or spending time in the garden is the most effective way to reduce stress.
Workers switch coffee to composting
Return to office mandates seem to be driving more people to get outside and connect with nature on their days at home. Among those working from home or in hybrid roles, half surveyed (50%) are now using their coffee breaks to garden or get outside and connect with nature. In fact, 41% say they plan to ditch the desk and work from their garden instead once the weather permits, turning lawns into lounge offices and patios into productivity work zones.
The research also reveals that gardening offers a range of wellbeing benefits for workers, with 44% of respondents saying it improves their mental health and others reported benefits including boosting mood (43%), feeling more connected to nature (41%), and a sense of achievement (38%). Over a quarter (27%) of Brits also stated that gardening relieves stress from their working day.
Top activities people do whilst WFH (Male vs Female)
- Hanging washing (41% males vs 63% females)
- Hoovering or cleaning (39% males vs 53% females)
- Doing bills or admin (37% males vs 47% females)
- Watering plants (40% males vs 41% females)
- Gardening (34% males vs 24% females)
- Moving the lawn (27% males vs 13% females)
The Gardening Generation
Although the love of gardening is universal, with 41% of women and 40% of men surveyed say they regularly relax in the garden, there’s a definite Garden Generation emerging amongst Millennials.
Almost half (42%) of 25-34 year olds use the garden to unwind, compared to 22% of 16-24 year olds and 27% of 35-54 year olds. The trend suggests gardening becomes more meaningful as people move through life stages such as home ownership, work stress and family life. The data shows a growing appreciation for life’s simpler pleasures. Many respondents (36%) say that watching wildlife in their gardens brings them more joy than retail therapy or indulging in sweet treats. Over half (57%) would like to attract more birds into their gardens, yet 72[1]% admit they can’t name five common UK bird species.
With remote working now part of everyday life and outdoor living on the rise, Redrow’s Interior Designer, Alysha Alli, has shared her top tips for creating the perfect outdoor office. “With over 2 in 5 (41%) of hybrid and home workers planning to take their work outside this summer, it’s clear that the garden is becoming the new office,” says Alysha. “Creating a calming, functional outdoor workspace doesn’t require a complete overhaul, just a few smart, stylish choices.”
Redrow Interior Designer Alysha’s Top Five Tips for creating an alfresco that supports Wellbeing & Work
- Location is Key: Think maximise that natural light and choose a spot that’s protected from harsh midday sun but still bathed in soft, ambient light, ideal under a chic pergola, retractable awning, or even a sheer outdoor curtain. It’s all about balance: glare-free screens, comfortable temps, and an effortless flow from home to garden studio.
- Mix Comfort with Function: Style your workstation like a pro. Invest in weather-resistant furniture that supports good posture, a proper seat and table make a big difference. Add outdoor cushions for comfort, but ensure surfaces are stable enough for laptops or notepads.
- Prioritise Privacy: Use planters, trellises or tall potted plants to create a natural screen and block distractions. Adding some greenery can also improve focus and promote a sense of calm.
- Smart Styling for Tech: Integrate clever storage solutions like rattan trunks or bench seating with hidden compartments to keep devices safe and surfaces clutter-free. Use decorative cable tidies or outdoor-friendly charging stations to maintain a polished, cohesive look without sacrificing practicality.
- Add Mood-Boosting Touches: Style your senses and incorporate fragrant plants like lavender or rosemary to stimulate the senses while working. Lighting, such as festoon or solar-powered LEDs , can help transition the space from day to dusk with ease.