Flexible living, profitable builds: The rise of the adaptable home

Changing family lifestyles and the continued growth of remote and hybrid working are reshaping renovation requirements across the UK homebuilding and renovation sector. These trends will be firmly under the spotlight at the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show – which takes place from 19–22 March 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham – where experts will explore the impact of multi-functional living on project specifications, build value and commercial opportunities for the trade. The discussions will be supported by a wide range of solutions on display from the show’s exhibitors.

Michael Holmes, property expert and Director of Content for Homebuilding & Renovating magazine, says: “As we move into 2026, we’re seeing more renovation projects requiring dedicated home offices, adaptable living and work zones and convertible rooms. This is leading to property designs being refined so spaces can perform multiple functions simultaneously. As a result, there's growing demand for intelligent layouts, structural alterations, enhanced services, acoustic solutions and integrated storage, all of which translate into higher-value work for builders, designers and specialist trades.

“Open-plan design remains a cornerstone of modern homes; however, it's increasingly being specified alongside modular furniture and flexible partitioning systems such as sliding, glass and pocket doors. These solutions are all on display at the show, allowing tradespeople to see first-hand how they work and how they could be integrated into current or future projects.”

According to Aviva’s 'How We Live Executive Report', extensions remain a major growth area for tradespeople, with renewed homeowner focus on expanding existing properties to add value through home offices, additional bathrooms and flexible family living spaces. There's also been a rise in multi-generational living, driving demand for annexes, upgraded ground-floor accommodation, independent access and enhanced mechanical and electrical infrastructure, all creating additional revenue opportunities across multiple trades.

Michael Holmes adds: “We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how homes are designed and delivered, driven by remote working, evolving family dynamics and rising demand for flexible living. This is fuelling strong growth in higher value, more technically complex renovation projects, with homeowners increasingly sourcing specialist trades and solution providers for specific elements of the build.

“The Homebuilding & Renovating Show is a vital event for tradespeople, regardless of discipline, offering the opportunity to see, touch and experience these solutions under one roof, understand where the commercial opportunities lie and stay ahead of the key trends and regulations shaping the market.”

To attend the upcoming National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, register for a free pair of tickets by visiting this link: https://www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/generaloutlets-national

For further information on the show, see www.homebuildingshow.co.uk.