As the UK moves into spring, businesses, schools, and commercial sites face a prime opportunity to upgrade their outdoor environments. Warmer weather naturally increases the use of external spaces—whether for breaks, smoking areas, cycle parking, or collaborative seating zones.
A well-planned outdoor upgrade doesn’t just improve appearance. It enhances employee wellbeing, site compliance, sustainability credentials, and operational efficiency—all key factors in modern workplace design.
In this guide, we explore how to upgrade your workplace this spring with a focus on shelters, outdoor seating, and sustainable solutions, helping you create a functional and future-ready environment.
Why Spring Is the Best Time to Upgrade Workplace Facilities
Spring is the ideal time to assess and improve outdoor infrastructure for several reasons:
- Increased daylight and better weather encourage outdoor use
- Reduced disruption compared to peak winter or summer periods
- Opportunity to prepare for higher footfall in summer months
- Alignment with sustainability and ESG initiatives
Businesses that invest in their outdoor spaces now can significantly improve staff satisfaction, visitor experience, and site efficiency heading into the rest of the year.
1. Smoking Shelters: Compliance, Comfort & Cleanliness
One of the most important outdoor upgrades for UK workplaces is ensuring compliant and well-designed smoking areas.
Since the introduction of smoke-free legislation, businesses must ensure smoking takes place in designated outdoor areas that meet legal requirements. Smoking shelters must not be substantially enclosed (at least 50% open) to comply with UK law.
Key Considerations for Smoking Shelter Installation
- Compliance with UK regulations
- Location away from entrances and windows
- Adequate ventilation and airflow
- Fire safety and waste management (ashtrays, bins)
- Planning permission for permanent structures
In many cases, shelters larger than 15m² require planning approval, making early planning essential.
Types of Smoking Shelters for Workplaces
- Wall-mounted smoking shelters
Ideal for smaller spaces and urban environments - Free-standing smoking shelters
Suitable for larger teams and higher usage - Custom shelters with seating and accessories
Improve usability and reduce litter
Modern smoking shelters are typically built from galvanised steel with polycarbonate or PETG glazing, offering durability, UV protection, and long-term performance.
Business Benefits
Installing a proper smoking shelter:
- Keeps entrances clean and smoke-free
- Improves site appearance and professionalism
- Supports employee wellbeing and fairness
- Demonstrates compliance and corporate responsibility
2. Outdoor Seating: Enhancing Workplace Experience
Outdoor seating is no longer a “nice-to-have”, it’s a key part of workplace design.
With the rise of hybrid working and employee wellbeing initiatives, businesses are increasingly investing in functional, comfortable outdoor seating areas.
Why Outdoor Seating Matters
- Encourages breaks and mental recovery
- Supports informal meetings and collaboration
- Enhances workplace culture and retention
- Maximises use of external space
Best Seating Options for UK Workplaces
- Benches for smoking shelters and break areas
- Picnic tables for team use
- Perch seating for compact spaces
- Modular seating for flexibility
Adding seating to smoking shelters, while not legally required, significantly improves usability and accessibility for staff.
Durability Is Key
UK weather demands robust materials. The best options include:
- Recycled plastic seating (weatherproof, low maintenance)
- Powder-coated steel frames
- UV-resistant materials
These solutions ensure long-term performance with minimal upkeep—critical for cost efficiency.
3. Sustainable Upgrades: Meeting Modern Expectations
Sustainability is no longer optional, it’s a priority for businesses across the UK.
From ESG reporting to employee expectations, organisations are under increasing pressure to demonstrate environmental responsibility.
Key Sustainable Workplace Upgrades
- Made from recycled materials
- Resistant to rot, rust, and weather damage
- Requires little to no maintenance
This makes it ideal for schools, offices, and public-sector environments.
Cycle Shelters & Bike Storage
Encouraging cycling is a simple way to:
- Reduce carbon emissions
- Support employee health
- Improve sustainability credentials
Cycle shelters provide secure, weather-resistant storage, helping businesses promote greener commuting.
Multi-Use Shelter Solutions
Modern workplaces benefit from shelters that serve multiple purposes:
- Smoking areas
- Waiting areas
- Covered walkways
- Outdoor collaboration zones
This maximises return on investment while improving site usability.
4. Shelter Solutions Beyond Smoking Areas
A complete spring upgrade should consider all types of shelters, not just smoking areas.
Popular Workplace Shelter Options
- Cycle shelters – promote sustainable commuting
- Canopy shelters – create covered walkways
- Waiting shelters – improve visitor experience
- Storage shelters – protect equipment and assets
Polycarbonate shelters are particularly popular due to their durability, transparency, and resistance to weather conditions, making them ideal for UK environments.
5. Planning Your Spring Upgrade: Step-by-Step
To maximise results, businesses should take a strategic approach:
Step 1: Assess Current Facilities
- Are smoking areas compliant?
- Is outdoor seating adequate?
- Are there sustainability gaps?
Step 2: Identify Key Priorities
Focus on:
- Compliance (legal requirements)
- Staff wellbeing
- Environmental impact
- Site aesthetics
Step 3: Choose Scalable Solutions
Opt for modular, expandable designs that grow with your business.
Step 4: Consider Installation & Permissions
- Check planning permission requirements
- Ensure safe and accessible installation
- Schedule upgrades during low-disruption periods
6. The ROI of Outdoor Workplace Upgrades
Investing in shelters and outdoor facilities delivers measurable benefits:
Operational Benefits
- Reduced litter and maintenance
- Improved site organisation
- Better space utilisation
Employee Benefits
- Higher satisfaction and morale
- Increased productivity
- Improved wellbeing
Business Benefits
- Stronger brand perception
- Better compliance with regulations
- Enhanced sustainability profile
Providing well-designed outdoor facilities reflects a company that values both its people and its environment.
Why Choose Tamstar for Workplace Upgrades
Tamstar offers a complete solution for outdoor workplace improvements across the UK.
From smoking shelters and cycle storage to recycled plastic furniture and bespoke shelter solutions, Tamstar helps organisations create safer, cleaner, and more functional outdoor environments.
With durable materials, compliance-focused designs, and nationwide delivery, Tamstar supports businesses in upgrading their spaces efficiently and effectively.
Conclusion: Upgrade Now, Benefit All Year
Spring is the perfect time to invest in your workplace environment.
By upgrading smoking shelters, outdoor seating, and sustainable infrastructure, businesses can:
- Stay compliant with UK regulations
- Improve employee wellbeing
- Enhance site appearance
- Support sustainability goals
A well-designed outdoor space is no longer just an extra—it’s a strategic asset.
FAQs
No, they are not legally required, but they help businesses stay compliant, organised, and considerate to both smokers and non-smokers.
Yes, especially for larger or permanent structures. Always check with your local authority before installation.
Recycled plastic and powder-coated steel are among the most durable, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance options.
By installing cycle shelters, using recycled materials, and creating multi-functional outdoor spaces.
