Working from home has become an essential weapon in keeping our communities and economy healthy. When the pandemic is over, one in six workers is estimated to continue to work from home, at least partially, according to a recent survey by researchers at the Harvard Business School. And that expectation may increase. According to Stewart Butterfield, CEO and co-founder of Slack:

“Our Future Forum research of 4,700 knowledge workers found the majority never want to go back to the old way of working. Only 12% want to return to full-time office work, and 72% want a hybrid remote-office model moving forward.”

Personal choice of where one works has become essential. The pandemic has impacted every individual differently, so offering ways to support employees with the flexibility to work from home is a meaningful benefit. Whether it’s due to high-risk family members, homeschooled children, or understanding deepset fears, giving people the opportunity to work from home demonstrates that an employer cares.

The Impact on the Remodeling Industry

So how does this shift impact the remodeling industry?

By promoting online design sessions and virtual walk-throughs we are able to limit exposure to our staff and clients. Simultaneously, we are offering these new services to our busier clients for whom scheduling has always been difficult. Embracing remote services will lead to greater advancements in our industry over the next several years.

Beyond our internal operations, new types of projects will emerge in the work from home world. We may see an influx of new types of clients, innovative uses of space, and more.

• USA Today found that interest in premium backyard sheds that can be converted into a home office has increased 400 percent since the start of the pandemic.
• Cheaper downtown real estate as offices downsize and populations spread out to suburban areas could also lead to an influx of new commercial projects.
• Adaptive reuse opportunities will pop up, like turning old office buildings into new residential living.
• As we have already seen this year, remote workers will spend more time in their houses and therefore, they will spend more money making it just right.
• A Nulab survey of remote workers shows that 72% are not yet working from a dedicated office space. As this shift becomes more permanent for some, home offices will become necessary and many will be willing to invest in a proper setup (or their employers might foot the bill).
• Companies that embrace a hybrid model that fluctuates between remote and in-office work will renovate to create more space for team meetings and will need less dedicated space for individuals to work.

Preparing for the Future

Some of us will miss the company, friendships, and regular social interaction. But with the reduction in traffic, mileage, pollution, and potential viral exposure, others will be hard to convince to come back into the office – especially now that they know their jobs can be completed at home. But don’t pack up and move just yet. Face-to-face interaction will always facilitate collaboration, build relationships, and generate new ideas. The future is about remaining flexible and being prepared for whatever unexpected events are to come.

If you are in need of a new home office contact us today.