In the spring of 2020, the UK’s Office for National Statistics revealed that almost 50% of employed adults had moved to home working. The Covid-19 pandemic has transformed the way we operate with the shift to remote working likely to be here for some time to come. A survey of just under 1,000 firms by the Institute of Directors further shows that 74% plan on maintaining the increase in home working. For those without a pre-existing home office, finding the space, peace and quiet to work amidst the hustle and bustle of family life has been an uphill struggle.
More and more people are looking to create a dedicated professional space – either by extending their existing home or creating a self-contained garden office. But which is better? If you are currently debating the pros and cons of garden or home offices, then look no further. We’ve compiled the main considerations to bear in mind, from planning permission to property value, connectivity and costs – to help you choose the option that’s best for you.
For many homeowners, extending your existing property can be an attractive option for creating a dedicated home office. It will often add value to your property – especially if the room can also be used as a bedroom or extra living space. Do bear in mind that you will require Building Regulations approval for any extensions, as well as time and energy put into detailed plans. Depending on the complexity of your build, the services of architects, surveyors, designers and of course builders may all be necessary.
The assistance of skilled trades will need to be budgeted for, with noisy construction work likely to impinge on the rest of the home. This may hamper your professional life, so is worth considering, along with asking if the extension provides the necessary separation between work and home. Planning permission is generally only required for major changes to the structure of your building (with some alterations allowed under Permitted Development Rights), but it is always advisable to check with your planning department before getting started.
If an extension isn’t possible for your property – a self-contained garden office can be a fantastic way of creating a luxurious yet practical working space. Whilst the options for personalisation are myriad (from classic wooden shepherds’ huts to modern storage containers or traditional brick buildings), such projects are often faster, cheaper and simpler than a full extension. Like extensions, they can add value to your property with the added benefit of providing the separation between professional and homelife that so many remote workers crave.
Despite this, creating a garden office can come with its own unique set of challenges. Do think carefully about the electrical, plumbing and heating requirements (especially if you plan to use the space all-year-round), as these spaces can be prone to cold and damp if not properly constructed. Also consider the impact the new structure will have on your garden. Planning permission may not be required for a garden office, but if you are in doubt, check with your local authority.
A key issue for any office – make sure you’ve got the connectivity and technology you require to do your job! A strong internet connection has never been more important than in the age of remote working, so do check that your Wi-Fi reaches the new space satisfactorily. It’s a good idea to also think about how many plug sockets and charging points you’d need on a daily basis.
What about flexible, multi-tasking? Your office – whether in the home or in the garden – doesn’t necessarily have to be a single-purpose room. It could also serve as a guest-bedroom with fold-away sofa beds, built-in storage, and even benefit from a small additional bathroom. If the room is likely to serve a dual function, maintaining a neutral and relaxing colour scheme will help create a focused space for working as well as a welcoming atmosphere for your guests.
Both a full extension and a self-contained garden office come with their own pros and cons, but through considering these factors in conjunction with your own needs and priorities – you’ll be able to select the right office solution with confidence. Whichever option you choose, creating a dedicated working space is bound to improve both your professional and family life – a must for modern, home working.
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