The rise of remote work since the COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot about modern life, and not just the way in which people work. Remote work has also had an impact on the design of new build homes in the UK, with homebuyers now requiring space where they can work and developers adapting to build properties that cater to the needs of remote workers.
The Rise of Remote Offices
In 2025, many people work remotely either full-time or as part of a hybrid work model. This can bring many benefits, but it is essential that people have a dedicated and comfortable space where they can work free from distractions. This has led to strong demand for dedicated home office spaces in new build homes. As a result, developers are incorporating home offices into floor plans, including options for converting spare bedrooms or creating purpose-built home office spaces.
Multifunctional Living Spaces
With the rise of remote work in the last few years, there has been a growing trend towards flexible living areas that can serve multiple purposes. Open plan designs can be used to provide flexibility with the ability for homeowners to create different “zones” for work, relaxation, and entertainment. This can be achieved with the use of partitions, which enable homeowners to change the layout of their space as their needs evolve over time.
Technology Integration
In addition to space for a home office, there is also demand for technology integration into new build homes. New houses are being designed with tech features that can support the lifestyle of remote workers, such as the capability for high-speed internet and built-in charging stations. Additionally, smart technologies can be useful for remote workers, including:
- Smart thermostats
- Smart lighting
- Video doorbell
- Smart locks
Outdoor Spaces & Wellbeing
While there is growing demand for office spaces in new buildings homes, the importance of outdoor spaces cannot be overstated. With people spending more time at home, it can be easy to feel isolated and trapped (this was a major issue during the pandemic). Outdoor spaces can help avoid cabin fever and contribute to a healthier work-life balance. Many people have set up garden offices that allow them to separate work from home, while balconies and communal green spaces in new developments can contribute to mental health and wellbeing for remote workers.
It is interesting to consider the ways in which the rise of remote work has changed many aspects of modern life. One of the most notable ways that it has changed life is in home design. Nowadays, homebuyers want to have a dedicated space where they can work free from distractions, but they will also want multi-functional living spaces, tech integration, and outdoor spaces that can support wellbeing. Developers are now creating new build homes that support the remote work lifestyle and reflect the needs of modern homebuyers.