The Rising Trend of Working from Home: Implications for Residential Buildings and General Contractors

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically reshaped the way we live and work, thrusting the concept of working from home into the spotlight. This shift has profound implications for residential buildings and presents new challenges and opportunities for general contractors. Let's explore how the increased prevalence of home offices is transforming residential spaces and what this means for the construction and renovation industry.

Impact on Residential Building Use and Design

Changes in Space Utilization and Comfort Expectations

The transition to working from home has altered how residential spaces are used, shifting the expectations for comfort, health, and productivity within these environments. Previously, homes were primarily seen as places to relax and unwind after work. However, with the advent of remote work, there is a growing need for homes to also serve as effective workspaces.

General contractors and designers are now tasked with creating spaces that can accommodate both living and working needs without compromising on comfort or functionality. This includes considering factors such as sound insulation for quieter work areas, enhanced ventilation systems, and ergonomic designs that promote productivity and well-being.

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) and Health

With people spending more time at home, the quality of the indoor environment has become a critical concern. Poor IEQ can lead to health issues like Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) and reduced productivity. General contractors are now more involved in installing advanced IEQ systems, including air quality sensors and improved filtration systems, to ensure that homes are not only comfortable but also healthy environments to work in.

Changes in Home Contaminants and Ventilation Needs

Managing Increased Contaminants

The shift to working from home means that activities typically done outside of the home, like cooking, are occurring more frequently, leading to increased indoor pollutants such as CO2, water vapor, and cooking-related contaminants. General contractors are crucial in implementing more effective kitchen ventilation systems and ensuring that homes can manage these increased contaminant levels.

Rethinking Ventilation Standards

Residential buildings traditionally have different ventilation standards compared to commercial spaces. However, with homes doubling as workplaces, there is a need to reassess these standards to support health and productivity. General contractors and HVAC specialists are at the forefront of adapting these standards to ensure that ventilation in homes meets the new demands imposed by remote work.

Energy Consumption and Grid Interaction

Shifts in Residential Energy Use

The widespread adoption of remote work has also impacted residential energy consumption patterns. Homes are now consuming more energy during times that previously saw lower usage, leading to increased peak demand and higher overall energy consumption. General contractors are playing a pivotal role in integrating more energy-efficient systems and sustainable building practices to mitigate these changes.

Implications for the Electric Grid

As residential energy demand shifts, so does the strain on the electric grid. General contractors and energy specialists are working together to develop solutions that align home energy use with grid capabilities, such as smart home technologies and energy-efficient appliances that help balance the load and reduce overall energy consumption.

The Role of General Contractors in Adapting to New Norms

General contractors are integral to addressing the challenges brought by the increase in remote work. They are responsible for not only following but also shaping the evolving standards in building practices to accommodate the dual needs of living and working from home. This includes:

- Upgrading ventilation and air quality systems to suit prolonged occupancy.

- Retrofitting spaces to be multi-functional for both living and working.

- Implementing energy-efficient solutions to manage increased consumption.

As the boundaries between residential and commercial building uses continue to blur, general contractors are essential in ensuring that homes are not just livable but also workable. The future of home construction and renovation is likely to see more innovations and adaptations as the trend of working from home continues to evolve.

Source: Healy, William M., et al. "Working from Home And the Impacts on Residential Buildings." ASHRAE Journal, vol. 66, no. 3, Mar. 2024, pp. 20+