Traditionally our homes have been separate from the 9-5, providing a clear distinction between work and the rest of our lives. In recent years this has changed and the response to Covid-19 seems likely to accelerate these trends.

Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that the number of people who work remotely has increased by nearly a quarter of a million over a decade. Meanwhile, according to research carried out by Lloyds Bank, two in five workers say that when looking for a new home, suitable work space is a factor.

So far residential developers have reacted to the demand for home working, addressing issues such as:

Connectivity

This is now being taken into consideration when the building specification is outlined. The rise of phone usage in the past decade has prompted some developers to place signal boosters within developments or on the roof where possible. Steel frames in traditional new-build developments have often been the cause of weak reception in central parts.

Internet speed is vital. Developers are ensuring their buildings are fitted with the very latest and fastest internet cabling. Previously this would have been considered at a later stage in the design process but it is fast becoming one of the top priorities for buyers. The focus on connectivity has seen the rise of companies such as Wired Score, which provides certification on building connectivity.

Space

The London Housing Design Guide, which sets the standard for residential development in London, now requires new homes to provide sufficient space to allow working from home. Credits are awarded under the Code for Sustainable Homes for providing space and services that enable a room to be used effectively as a home office, including allowing a desk chair and filing cabinet to be installed. This is why we will often see a work desk and chair placed on a marketing floor plan. 

Flexibility

Developments are now offering an increasing amount of flexible workspace. Demand has shifted from areas that may previously have been designed as a small private gym or residents’ bar to communal work areas. This is because people don’t necessarily want to work in their apartment or in a local coffee shop. Developers are seeing more value in these workspaces over gyms and lounges.

Above: residents' working space in Television Centre, London W12.

Some developments have gone a step further and are now providing meeting rooms that can be booked by residents. These are fully equipped with video conference facilities, refreshments and boardroom-style tables and mean residents can hold meetings with external parties without inviting clients and colleagues into their homes.

Above: meeting room at 101 Cleveland Street, London W1.

In the future, home workspaces will become further defined as people seek privacy and comfort. We expect to see encouragement for developers to deliver more than minimum-size standard apartments; larger apartments will be built and design will shift from fully open-plan kitchen/living areas to allow for two private work areas. We also anticipate a rise in truly dedicated home studies as people work from home in ever increasing numbers.

Above: future two-bedroom apartment layout – Tom Mann, Savills Residential Development.

Further information

Contact Savills Planning