This December marks the first milestone anniversary of the first case of Covid-19. And even after five years, the pandemic that followed still changes our everyday lives in almost every area. For one, it dramatically sped up the shift to remote work, changing the way we live and work for good. As a result, new homes now need to cater to the needs of remote workers, from dedicated workspaces and fast internet to ergonomic furniture.

The changing landscape of work as we knew it

The pandemic forced millions to work from home, and many have stuck with it, even as restrictions eased. According to a recent study by the Office for National Statistics, around 14% of the UK workforce are still working remotely, with double the amount (28%) being hybrid. This shift has had a lasting effect on the housing market, with many looking for homes that fit their new way of working long term.

Why is a dedicated workspace so important?

Having a clearly defined workspace is key to staying productive and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. New homes should include office spaces—whether a separate room or a defined area in an open-plan layout—that minimise distractions and help foster focus.

When designing a home office, it’s important to think about:

• Quiet Zones: Finding areas in the home where you can work without interruptions.
• Natural Light: Letting in enough natural light to lift your mood and stay focused.
• Ergonomic Furniture: Choosing furniture that supports good posture and helps prevent long-term health issues.
• Storage Solutions: Making sure there's enough space to store all your work materials and equipment.

Technology in modern homes

Fast, reliable internet is a must for remote workers. Homebuilders should prioritise strong internet connections, considering things like fibre-optic availability and the placement of routers, as the signal needs to be ensured in all areas of the home.

On top of that, smart home technology can make life easier and more comfortable, with features like voice assistants and automated lighting. Implementing systems right from the get-go to control lighting, heating, and security remotely is becoming a growing factor when choosing a newly built house.

What does this mean for property values?

As demand for remote work-friendly homes grows, it could drive up property values. New builds with great workspaces, fast internet, and other sought-after features may fetch higher prices. Homebuilders need to keep these factors in mind when planning their projects.

Furthermore, the rise of remote work has led to more people looking for homes in suburban and rural areas, as they seek more space and a better quality of life. This shift in demand could impact property values in different regions.

Creating Sustainable and Resilient Homes

The past five years but also the global climate crisis have shown us how important it is to build homes that are sustainable and resilient. Homebuilders should focus on energy-efficient technologies, eco-friendly materials, and flexible layouts that can adapt to future work changes.

Some key sustainability features to consider include:

• Energy-Efficient Appliances: Installing energy-efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption.
• Solar Panels: Incorporating solar panels to generate renewable energy.
• Green Roofs: Installing green roofs to improve insulation and reduce stormwater runoff.
• Flexible Layouts: Designing homes with adaptable spaces that can be easily reconfigured to meet changing needs.

By understanding the changing needs of remote workers, homebuilders can create homes that are not just functional but also inspiring and sustainable.