If you are considering a renovation to create a more comfortable and spacious at home work space, you aren’t alone. Home renovations have been on the rise for over six months according to 76% of agents surveyed and are showing little sign of slowing. Since March of 2020 there has been a drastic rise in home improvement and renovations, totalling $328 billion during the 2nd quarter of this year, a massive $8 billion over the same time period in 2019.
A large chunk of the home improvement projects that have occurred during the COVID pandemic have been to establish and/or renovate home offices. This trend was originally due to lockdown orders at the start of the pandemic which forced millions of employees into remote work. Even as restrictions have eased, employees who are able to work from home are continuing to do so. In addition to remote work, schools around the country have reopened, but most have only done so partially. In fact, over half of schools nationwide have opted for either full virtual programs or hybrid learning schedules.
The increase in adults and children that are participating in remote work has created a shift away from open floor plans. If there is enough existing square footage to accommodate a change in floor plan then designated video conference rooms and quiet office spaces can easily be created. However, if small space is an issue some homeowners are opting to add square footage to their home. Additions can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $80,000 depending upon the size of increase. While these may seem like expensive renovations, the addition of a home office generally has an 87% return on investment.
Homeowners who are unwilling to add square footage to their home can utilize their existing space by creating nooks. Sliding doors and areas that can quickly be closed off from other living areas to provide quiet for video conferences or homework are the top priority for many homeowners. Another popular option to add space without disrupting the existing house is to purchase a shed or premade outdoor office. These are small dedicated work spaces with a multitude of add-ons that emphasize a work/life separation even when working from home.
Owners who may have spare rooms have taken to turning bedrooms and playrooms into a home office. Renovations that can effectively transform a room into a home office are generally easily completed. The first and most important aspect of home office renovation is wall paint. Over 11% of agents say they have seen home renovations that include adding a fresh coat of paint to a home office. Neutral tones and whites are classic colors that many homeowners lean toward, however some are choosing to keep their offices full of life with a vibrant yellow accent wall.
With the addition of a home office and more time at home, additional storage is bound to become a necessity. Built in shelves are a great option for homeowners that lack space in their home office. The shelves also create a unique background for video chats as long as they are not cluttered and distracting. Built in desks are an easy way to make small office areas more versatile and are a popular addition to home offices. Of course home storage won’t be limited to just the home office. In order to really make your home a sanctuary and a productive work space, additional kitchen storage will also come in handy. Walk-in-pantries are proving to be just about as popular with homeowners as upgrades in kitchen appliances.
Just as important as wall color is the presence of good lighting. Natural light is the best light for a home office as it has been shown to increase productivity. However, not everyone has large open windows that face the rising and/or setting sun. Recessed indoor lights that mimic natural lighting and can be adjusted in intensity throughout the day are best for work. Task lighting is also important to enhance dimly lit areas where additional light is needed.
Regardless of the extent of the renovation, creating a home work space is a personal choice. Productivity depends greatly on a person’s own style and particular field or work. Keeping work and life separate is a major concern for those working from home, but can easily be achieved with a few adaptations to space. Without a definite end to the COVID pandemic in sight, those renovating their home office should take the time to make their space comfortable, spacious, and adaptable to their needs.