Sheltering in place has kept many of us at home more in these last few months than ever before, all thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. While things like losing your job or having to cancel travel plans could have you focusing on everything negative about the virus, it’s important to see the good changes it has brought about as well.
For example, leading a less hectic life has caused many families to enjoy more together time. Fear of crowds and getting sick has pushed people to spend more time outside and find ways to stay healthy. And, the pandemic has changed how we use our homes.
How COVID-19 affects our living space
Your extra time at home these last few months may have opened your eyes to all the things you like and don’t like about your current living space. You’re not alone – many areas have noticed a spike in landscape renovations and home remodeling projects. As some states continue in lockdown and others begin to re-open, here are some emerging trends for how we want to use our homes now and in the future:
- We want versatile spaces that are multifunctional.
Was your local gym closed during the pandemic? Most were. To keep up with their exercise and fitness routines, many homeowners are realizing that a recreational room at home can include both entertainment options for the family as well as home exercise equipment.
- There’s a common need for a home office.
If you kept your job during the pandemic, but were required to work from home, you probably realized your need for a home office. Whether you worked at the kitchen table alongside your homeschooled kids, or created a designated space, remodeling to include a home office is a trend that’s not likely to go away anytime soon.
- Functional outdoor space is a must.
Homeowners living in the rural countryside may not have noticed a lack of outdoor space during the pandemic, but city-dwellers certainly did. In both cases, there is a desire for functional outdoor areas that can be used for relaxation or entertainment. An outdoor kitchen, for example, keeps the heat of cooking out of the home, allows for social distancing, and provides fresh air … a healthy and appealing combination.
Keeping our homes virus-free
With so many families being quarantined at home, there has also been a greater concern for how to keep COVID-19 and other sicknesses out of the home. Aside from following a strict cleaning schedule, here are some factors to consider:
- Create a foyer or mudroom.
With these helpful spaces, germ-laden shoes and outer garments can be left just inside the door instead of carried throughout the house.
- Consider materials that are easy to clean.
Careful thought can be put into your choice of flooring, countertops, and other surfaces when you’re remodeling your home. Easy-to-clean materials will be much easier to keep germ-free.
- Use smart home technology.
Whether it’s used for opening and closing doors or simply turning on the lights or music, smart home devices can eliminate or greatly reduce the amount of contact on surfaces. Less human contact ultimately means fewer germs carried from place to place.
Whether you already have a remodeling project in mind, or need help with the design process, our design-build team is here for you every step of the way. Our building professionals know how to combine the latest style trends with the convenience and function you need in your home. Give us a call at (949) 861-3400 to get started and let’s use our COVID-19 experiences to create a healthier home environment that’s good for all!