Tenants, home owners look for office spaces in properties

real estate

The demand for home office spaces has surged among homeowners and renters, significantly shaping the real estate market post-Covid. According to a white paper by Property Market, the trend towards integrating workspaces within residential properties has become more prominent since the pandemic. Nina Klishevich, general manager at Blueground, noted that most properties now feature one or more workspaces, catering to the growing number of people working from home.

Adham Younis, CEO of D and B Properties, emphasized that the Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to remote work, which has now become a critical factor in property value assessment. He pointed out that many talents attracted to Dubai during the pandemic seek living spaces that cater to their work needs, which goes beyond just a small corner in the house. This shift is particularly noticeable among younger demographics who prioritize home office spaces.

Developers are responding to this trend by redesigning their projects to include dedicated workspaces. Paul Kelly, Operations Director at Allsopp & Allsopp Group, highlighted that major developers like Majid Al Futtaim have modified their villa designs in projects like Tilal Al Ghaf to feature larger study and office spaces. Similarly, the 25hours Heimat project by East & West Properties has incorporated home offices into its apartment layouts, providing residents with both personal workstations and communal work areas.

Real estate agent Shabna Ibrahim explained that many new properties now include what the industry calls the "0.5 trend," referring to half-bedrooms. These spaces are not large enough to be full bedrooms but can be easily converted into home offices or studies. This design trend has gained popularity since the pandemic as it accommodates the need for dedicated work areas within the home.

Despite the growing demand for home offices, Paul Kelly mentioned that they are not yet a "deal-breaker" for most clients. However, a well-equipped study or office area is often a desirable feature. Clients are also increasingly interested in the "urban village" concept, seeking homes with open floor plans, seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, and ample outdoor areas like gardens and terraces. These features provide a holistic living experience, combining work, leisure, and essential services in close proximity.

Adham Younis added that the shift in priorities towards personal spaces and outdoor areas is a direct result of people spending more time indoors since the pandemic. Properties with garden spaces and terraces have become highly sought after as they offer opportunities for fresh air, relaxation, and recreation.

Overall, the real estate market is evolving to meet the changing needs of homeowners and renters who prioritize flexible and functional living spaces that accommodate both work

and leisure. As the trend towards remote work continues, the demand for properties with dedicated home offices and versatile living spaces is likely to grow, influencing future real estate developments and design trends.