Design for Working from Home: Lessons Learned from Architects and Designers during the COVID Era

Abstract

Technology has revolutionized information and communication, with platforms now enabling employees to work remotely. The COVID-19 pandemic has further changed how people work worldwide. Several challenges have been identified for those working remotely, including uncomfortable work environments, increased stress, and depression. However, there is a lack of research on the working from home (WFH) challenges, successes, and conditions for design professionals. In this study, an anonymous online survey was administered to 93 remote architects and interior designers. The survey aimed to explore remote designers’ experiences, physical work environment, and required equipment. Most respondents reported experiencing distractions, lack of social interaction and physical activities, and inadequate internet/tools while working remotely. However, 60% of participants reported higher productivity while working remotely and desired improved working conditions to continue WFH. Based on the study’s findings, researchers aim to develop and evaluate a pervasive virtual reality enhanced WFH environment for designers in the future.

Keywords

• technology
• working from home
• architects
• designers
• pervasive virtual reality