Pub Garden
Pub Garden Fit Out
Over the past few years, Foursquare Workspace has been working closely with this Southampton-based client on a series of projects aimed at improving their workplace and enhancing employee wellbeing. From canteen refurbishments to breakout zones, each project has been designed to create an engaging, enjoyable, and functional environment for their staff.
As part of this ongoing partnership, the client approached us with a unique idea: to transform an unused and tired section of their car park into a vibrant pub-style garden that employees could use during breaks and social gatherings. The goal was to introduce a sense of relaxation and fun into the workplace — providing an outdoor retreat that promoted mental wellbeing, social connection, and a stronger sense of community among team members.
Plan
The client came to us with a clear concept in mind and even provided initial hand-drawn sketches illustrating how they imagined the new garden space. Their vision combined elements of a traditional pub garden — casual, welcoming, and full of greenery — with the durability and practicality needed for a commercial setting.
After carefully reviewing the brief, our design team began developing a detailed plan that would bring the client’s ideas to life. We worked collaboratively to refine materials, finishes, and construction methods to ensure the final result would be both visually appealing and built to last.
Once these key details were confirmed, we produced a full-colour 2D design, showing each element of the project in detail — from paving and fencing layouts to planting zones, seating arrangements, and decorative features. The visual presentation helped the client to fully understand how the space would look once completed and to feel confident about every design decision.
The concept struck a perfect balance between charm and functionality: a low-maintenance, hard-wearing outdoor environment that captured the warmth and friendliness of a classic pub garden while providing a modern space suitable for breaks, informal meetings, and social events.
Works
The installation phase began shortly after the design was approved, with the project team working efficiently to complete the transformation with minimal disruption to the client’s daily operations.
The first stage involved preparing the area and laying a beautiful Indian Sandstone patio, chosen for its natural variation in tone and texture. The material not only provided a strong and attractive foundation but also complemented the warm, inviting aesthetic the client wanted to achieve.
Next, we installed commercial-quality artificial grass, which offered the visual appeal of a natural lawn while ensuring long-term durability and easy maintenance. This choice allowed the space to remain vibrant and green all year round, regardless of weather conditions or foot traffic.
With the base in place, attention turned to constructing the timber framework that would serve as both a structural and decorative feature. Around this, we wrapped artificial boxwood hedging, creating a lush green screen that effectively shielded the view of the remaining car park and introduced a sense of enclosure and privacy. The result was a natural-looking boundary that enhanced the garden’s tranquil atmosphere.
To complete the setting, we sourced a stylish pergola, a selection of artificial plants, and outdoor furniture designed for comfort, weather resistance, and longevity. These finishing touches helped to establish distinct zones within the space — areas for sitting, socialising, and simply enjoying the outdoors. The careful choice of colours, textures, and materials ensured the final space felt bright, modern, and welcoming while still maintaining the relaxed character of a pub garden.
Result
Once the 2D design had been approved, work commenced and was completed within just 10 days — a testament to the careful planning and efficiency of our installation team. Despite the less-than-perfect weather conditions on completion day, the client’s senior management team were delighted with the transformation. The garden exceeded expectations, turning a previously unused section of the property into a lively, engaging outdoor feature.
The finished result is a charming, low-maintenance space that provides employees with a refreshing break from their indoor work environment. It has quickly become a popular spot for staff to enjoy lunch, chat with colleagues, or simply relax in the fresh air.
The project reflects Foursquare Workspace’s ongoing commitment to designing and delivering spaces that promote wellbeing, creativity, and connection. What was once a neglected corner of the car park is now a standout feature of the workplace — proof that even the most overlooked areas can be reimagined into something beautiful and purposeful with the right vision and expertise.
