You Can Plug This $19K Backyard Office Into an Outlet
Autonomous’s tiny prefab, which is also solar capable, can be shipped with a suite of ergonomic work-from-home essentials.

Autonomous’s tiny prefab, which is also solar capable, can be shipped with a suite of ergonomic work-from-home essentials.
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Founded in 2015 by CEO Duy Huynh, office furniture company Autonomous took its first foray into smart, tech-enabled designs with the launch of a standing desk on Kickstarter. From there, the company’s offerings expanded to include everything a remote or hybrid worker needs to run a well-equipped work-from-home operation, from ergonomic chairs, to 3D-printed slides, to AI supercomputers. More recently, Autonomous introduced an entire workspace, a plug-and-play backyard office called the WorkPod.
Here, company product manager Brody Slade explains more about the new prefab office and what sets it apart from other workspaces you could put in your backyard.

Autonomous, which started in 2015 by making office furniture, now offers a backyard office called the WorkPod, a tiny modular workspace that can be customized.
Photo courtesy of Autonomous
What does your base model cost and what does that pricing include?
The base model WorkPod is priced at $18,900, offering a gross floor area of 102 square feet. This includes a modular, eco-conscious design, delivered in three large crates with all components and tools for self-installation. We prioritize sustainable materials and efficient design to minimize environmental impact. The price covers the product itself, while shipping, tax, and professional installation are separate due to varying customer locations. We also offer smart-design options like integrated solar panel readiness and energy-efficient lighting.

The design, which emphasizes energy efficiency, includes weather-resistant siding, a single exterior plug to hook up the unit, and six adjustable foundation options to allow for simple installation.
Photo courtesy of Autonomous
What qualities make your prefab stand apart from the rest?
- Rapid, Eco-Friendly Installation: Modular design with adjustable foundations allows quick setup on various terrain, minimizing site disruption and using sustainable foundation solutions.
- Smart, Ready-to-Use Functionality: Built-in, energy-efficient electrical systems, optional smart ergonomic furniture, and advanced climate control ensure a plug-and-play workspace.
- Sustainable Durability: Seven-layer walls provide superior soundproofing and climate control, utilizing recycled and renewable materials for enhanced longevity and reduced environmental footprint.

A standard WorkPod interior has a bookshelf and an electrical cabinet; a furnished model ships with a smart desk, ergonomic chair, filing cabinet, anti-fatigue mat, and cable tray.
Photo courtesy of Autonomous
See the full story on Dwell.com: You Can Plug This $19K Backyard Office Into an Outlet
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