Is It Worth Including a Home Office in Builds?
With flexible working now part of everyday Aussie life, more and more homebuyers are asking: should I include a home office in my new build? Whether you’re working remotely full-time, juggling a side hustle, or just want a quiet spot to pay bills and take Zoom calls, a well-designed home office can add real value to your lifestyle and your property.
Why Home Offices Are in Demand
In the wake of COVID-19 and the rise of hybrid work models, home offices have gone from nice-to-have to must-have for many Australians. In fact, recent trends show that buyers and renters are actively looking for homes with dedicated workspaces, even if they only use them part-time.
A study by the Property Council of Australia and Gensler found that flexible working is here to stay, with most employees expecting to work from home at least 1–2 days per week. That means homes need to do more than ever, and smart buyers are building with this in mind.
The Benefits of Including a Home Office
Improved Functionality
A home office gives you a designated space for focus, away from distractions like the kitchen, TV, or laundry piles. It creates physical (and mental) separation between work and home life, a key factor for productivity and wellbeing.
Better Resale Value
Homes with flexible floor plans and study nooks or offices appeal to a wider buyer pool. As remote work becomes more permanent, properties with office space may fetch higher prices or sell faster than similar homes without one.
Flexibility for the Future
Don’t work from home right now? That’s okay. A home office can double as a guest bedroom, craft space, teenage retreat, or even a nursery down the track. When designed with flexibility in mind, it can evolve as your lifestyle does.
Professionalism and Privacy
Need to jump on a Teams meeting or meet with clients? A home office offers a quiet, professional backdrop, no more taking calls from the kitchen bench or clearing off the dining table.
What to Consider When Designing a Home Office
If you decide to include a home office in your build, keep the following in mind:
Location Matters
Try to position your office in a quiet part of the home, away from living areas and street noise. Front-of-house offices are popular for client-facing roles, while rear or upstairs locations offer more privacy.
Natural Light Is a Must
Good lighting can improve mood and productivity. Try to include a window for daylight and airflow, just be mindful of glare on screens.
Power and Data
Make sure your office includes plenty of power points, NBN access, and built-in data cabling if needed. Aveling Homes can help you plan your electrical layout to suit your work style.
Storage Solutions
Shelving, filing cabinets, and cupboards can keep your workspace clutter-free and functional. Built-in joinery is a great investment if you want a sleek, seamless look.
Size and Layout
Not all home offices need to be huge. Even a compact 2x2m space can work well if laid out smartly. Alternatively, some of our clients opt for a larger multi-purpose room that combines office, study and library zones.
So, Is It Worth It?
In most cases, absolutely.
Adding a home office is one of the most future-proof design choices you can make today. It offers convenience, flexibility, and broad appeal, whether you’re planning to stay for decades or sell down the line. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune or take up loads of space. With the right planning, even a compact home office can make a big difference.
Build Smarter with Aveling Homes
Whether you want a simple study nook or a fully-equipped work-from-home hub, Aveling Homes will work with you to create a home that suits your needs today and tomorrow. Ready to build a home that works as hard as you do? Contact us to explore your options today.