Property trends 2022...
As Alasdair mentioned in his introduction to this magazine, the ‘race for space’ – the prevalent desire to move away from cities and into the countryside – has seen homebuyers re-evaluating not only where they might like to live but also the specific kinds of homes that they want. The yearning for more space goes beyond simple location; buyers are increasingly searching for more spacious homes and larger gardens, possibly even with a little land.
Changed working practices means that one of the most common space requirements is a property with room for a dedicated home office or even two. This may not always be practicable, so in smaller properties people are looking for areas that offer clever use of space to create an office nook in an underused area. This could be a corner or alcove of a room, a hallway or a landing, or other neglected space.
In a larger property, a small spare room obviously works well utilised as a home office, but there are other options to consider too. If a spare room is not available, but the solitude of having an office behind closed doors is important, garage and loft conversions are good options to look for. Planning permission is not usually required as long as the work is internal and does not relate to a Listed building
Although office space remains important, people are also looking to reclaim some balance in their homes, and to make hybrid working work with hybrid interior spaces that really function for family life in 2022. Open-plan living is highly desirable for many house hunters, and never more so than in the kitchen. A modern family kitchen is so much more than just a functional room. It’s a place to socialise, entertain and work, and often needs to be flexible enough to be the perfect location for an informal dinner party, family meals, a place for children to play or do homework, and an area to relax. As the kitchen now occupies such an important role in our lives, it has become one of the most influential rooms in a property sale. A kitchen that matches the aspirations of the majority of the buying population is a huge step towards a successful sale.
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where additional consents may be required. Many people are surprised to learn that there is also usually no planning permission required when adding a small extension to the rear or side of a house, as such modifications are acceptable through government ‘permitted development rights’, although it is essential to take advice from a planning expert before undertaking any changes to your home.
