Outdoor spaces are becoming increasingly important in today’s tech-driven world, where children and adults are more likely to spend their time on screens than outdoors. A 2021 Common Sense Media study found a 17% increase in screen use among tweens and teens compared to the last 2 years. Research suggests the same for adults; an AllConnect report found that screen time for adults has increased by more than 60% since 2020.
Knowing this information, getting people outdoors isn’t just a benefit; it’s a necessity. Spending time outdoors leads to reduced stress, improved mood, boosted cognitive function, and even stronger immunity. Exposure to nature can also help with daily functioning by promoting restful sleep, healthier eating habits, and more frequent exercise.
At Cunningham Recreation, we believe that site furnishings can help bring people outdoors and keep them there. Let’s learn more about how you can use site amenities to transform underutilized outdoor areas into welcoming, functional spaces that embrace comfort and community.
Why Site Furnishings Matter
Site furnishings, such as benches, tables, trash receptacles, planters, and bike racks, do more than serve a practical function. When integrated into a landscape with purpose and style, they:
● Encourage people to spend time outdoors
● Support physical and mental well-being
● Reinforce a sense of belonging and pride in the environment
● Promote cleanliness, organization, and accessibility
● Add aesthetic value to otherwise bare or overlooked areas
These benefits make site furnishings essential for any space designed for people to gather, rest, or recharge.
Real-World Applications
Corporate Courtyards: Fresh Air for Focused Minds
Breaks are better in the sun. A courtyard with seating, tables, and planters creates the perfect environment for employees to step away from their desks and recharge outdoors. Adding a couple of GT Fit pieces, such as compact outdoor fitness equipment designed for adult use, offers employees a way to get in some movement on a lunch break or short walk. The result? A healthier, more energized team that feels supported by their work environment.
School Courtyards: Lunch, Learning, and Fresh Perspectives
Today’s schools are embracing flexible learning environments, and outdoor courtyards offer the ideal setting. With durable, weather-resistant furnishings such as benches, picnic tables, and shaded seating, students can eat lunch outside, hold group discussions, or even participate in outdoor classes. Add planters to introduce greenery and life to the space, and you’ve created a setting that supports both learning and wellness.
Fitness and Wellness on the Go
For facilities looking to promote wellness, GT Fit exercise stations can be placed near walking paths or in open green spaces. These small additions make it easy for individuals to incorporate physical activity into their day without needing a gym or formal workout. Encouraging light movement during breaks boosts morale and contributes to long-term health benefits.
Furnishings That Invite, Support, and Inspire
At Cunningham Recreation, we offer a wide range of high-quality site furnishings that are designed to be as attractive as they are functional. From ergonomic benches to durable shade structures, every piece contributes to an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and practical. Thoughtful placement of trash receptacles and bike racks also helps keep outdoor spaces clean and enjoyable for everyone.
When you invest in site amenities, you’re not just adding furniture; you’re creating places for people to connect, relax, and thrive.
Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?
Whether you’re planning a corporate courtyard, a school gathering area, a wellness-focused campus, or something else, Cunningham Recreation can help you select the right site furnishings to bring your vision to life. Let’s build welcoming outdoor environments together. Contact our team today at 800-438-2780 to schedule a consultation.
