The pandemic revolutionised the way we approach work, with research showing that around 40% of workplaces have since shifted to a hybrid model and there has been a 10% increase in companies offering flexible working arrangements.This has meant that having a home office has quickly moved from a nice-to-have to a need-to-have. What’s more, a dedicated space for productivity can also help to foster more creativity and support hobbies outside of work. In this blog, we will explore the potential of a home office extension, and the practical and aesthetic considerations worth keeping in mind.
Working from home can bring real perks. From cutting the time you spend commuting to allowing you to focus on the tasks you need to get done, it can help you to be more productive and find a better work/life balance. However, separating yourself from the constant hum of family life can be a challenge.
Establishing a dedicated, quiet and private room for focused work—separate yet still connected to the main house and living areas— can be invaluable. It can also help to ensure all your work-related equipment and paperwork is kept from spreading around your house and intruding on your rest time— no one wants to sleep with their laptop blinking at them from the corner or settle on the sofa with piles of notebooks!
But why settle for all work and no play? A home office isn't just about boosting your professional productivity. It can also be a quiet zone for cultivating your creative passions. Whether you are itching to set up your easel, finally write that novel, or get working on a new side hustle, this separate space can be a canvas for self-expression and joy, helping you to realise your dreams.
And then, if you plan to move, this flexible space becomes a real asset. Its ability to be whatever you need makes it a standout for potential buyers, boosting your home's value. It's not just a handy space for everyday life; it's a smart investment for later down the line.
What is the best place and size for your new home office extension?
Your home office extension doesn't have to be extensive to make a big impact on your lifestyle, but it's crucial to think about what goes inside to determine the right size and location for your needs. When planning your home office extension, keep these four factors in mind:
In crafting the ideal home office extension, the practical considerations are of great importance. Our Certified Installerswill support you through the design and construction process to ensure you get the functionality you need within the space you have available and that your extension meets the correct standards. However, there are some key questions to consider, such as:
How will I introduce natural daylight? One crucial aspect is the strategic placement of doors, rooflights and windows. Maximising natural light not only helps with productivity but also your mental well-being.
What electric lighting will I need? While natural lighting will often meet the majority of your needs, it's equally important to consider those late-night work sessions or immersive hobby moments on gloomier days. As well as overhead lighting, think about incorporating lower level task lighting using floor and table lamps.
Where do the services need to go? Linked to the above considerations is where you will need to install the building services, such as sockets and radiators. Having a general idea of how you want the space to be laid out can be useful.
What is the extension being built on? Different soils require different foundations. Our Certified Installers can assess this, but we have written a blog for homeowners with more information.
What thermal performance does it need to achieve? You will want your home office to be cosy in the winter and cool in the summer to allow you to work at your best. Therefore, ensuring the extension is well insulated and uses energy efficiently is a key priority. Learn more about thermal performance in our dedicated blog on the topic.
What is your ideal project timeline? Undertaking any home improvement project can have a knock on effect on the rest of your home. Having an idea of when you want the work to take place can help limit the disruption as far as possible. Learn more about the build speed of extensions in our blog.
As an expert interior stylist, writer, author, and consultant, Joanna Thornhill knows that a workspace should feel motivating. “Greens and blues are well known to help create a sense of calm, though in a working space it’s also important to feel inspired” she explains. She recommends boldly embracing wrap-around colour, such as teal, to create and immersive experience and adding in pops of contrasting colour on the woodwork for a jolt of energy.
When it comes to accessories, her suggestion is to “play on the space’s connection to creative hobbies by incorporating painterly details into accessories.” This could be an abstract art-inspired rug or chair fabric, or even creating an ever-evolving corkboard display of inspirational images, quotes and other finds.
There’s also the practical side of design too, such as the furniture you need to work on. To maximise the functionality and versatility of the space, Joanna suggests using a fitted worktop that spans the width of the space, rather than a standalone desk, can give you ample room to switch up your tasks. Complementing this with useful and attractive storage solutions, such as baskets and magazine stands, can help keep spaces well organised and clear of clutter.
As your home office extension will overlook your garden, it also makes sense to embrace this connection to nature. Decades of research show that increasing exposure to the natural world in workspaces can help to boost our sense of wellbeing, creativity and overall productivity. This can be as simple as installing your desk space underneath a picture window, allowing you to see out whilst you work. Plants are also a welcome addition to offices. As Joanna highlights, “Hanging plants suspended from ceiling hooks can be a great option if floor space is limited, while statement plant stands provide an attractive focal point when grouped together.”
No matter your office's purpose, aligning it with your personality and interests is foolproof. Blend current trends with your unique touch to craft a workspace that not only fuels your passion and productivity but is a beautiful addition to your home.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Guardian Home Extension: Creative+ page or download our brochure.
