Remote work: reshaping physical space in the post-pandemic

Abstract

Work has always been a part of human life, evolving through economic, cultural, societal, and technological changes. In recent years, remote work or work-from-home (WFH) has become more prevalent in the broader landscape due to technological advancements. COVID-19 led to a normalization of working from home, prompting the need for further research on the physical aspects of this new work model. This paper examines the findings of a pilot study for investigating the physical aspects of home workspaces in the context of New Zealand. The study was exploratory research, as home office spaces have not been extensively examined. The research used an ethnographic approach to gather primary data using semi-structured video interviews supported by photographic evidence. The results suggest that homeowners tend to have more suitable workspaces than renters. However, this may be influenced by factors such as shared living arrangements, small home sizes, and family composition, indicating a need for further exploration of workspace suitability. The study emphasized the significance of natural lighting and the lack of attention to proper ergonomics in home workspaces. The trend of working from home appears to be more enduring than anticipated. Further research is needed to understand how individuals have adjusted their homes for work. More studies are required to encompass diverse regions, cultures, genders, and socioeconomic contexts for a comprehensive perspective of work-from-home practices.