More and more studies are demonstrating the positive effects of daylight on health, happiness, and productivity. New York–based designer Jonathan Olivares takes those findings to their logical conclusions by proposing a new typology: the outdoor office. Through an exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago, Olivares suggests that we should take advantage of the freedom that more-flexible office environments and increased connectivity offer. (Not to mention that outdoor workspaces in warmer climates would theoretically reduce costs and energy from lighting and a/c.) As this new workstyle would require a new kind of outdoor furniture not made for R&R, The Outdoor Office offers up images drawn from TV and existing offices, as well as Olivares’s own conceptual projects for inspiration. Through July 15. • artic.edu
