AITA for asking my flatmate to work somewhere that isn’t our shared living space?
A shared home usually comes with a few unwritten rules, especially when it comes to respecting communal space. In one London flat, that balance started to fall apart when a roommate’s new work routine slowly turned the living room into a full-time office. The situation began after one of the housemates left his traditional office job and started working remotely as a consultant.
Instead of setting up in the large basement room he rents, he placed a desk in the shared living room where the TV and couches are located. Over time, constant video calls and long workdays made the space difficult for anyone else to use. What was meant to be a place to relax now feels like a professional workspace, leaving another roommate wondering whether it’s reasonable to demand a change—or even ask the consultant to move out entirely.
‘AITA for asking my flatmate to work somewhere that isn’t our shared living space?’
The poster explains the unique living arrangement inside their converted pub home.
The problem began when one roommate switched careers and started working from home.
Repeated requests to move his workspace eventually escalated into a serious conflict.
In most shared homes, common areas such as living rooms are intended for flexible use by everyone in the household. When one resident turns that space into a dedicated work environment, it can unintentionally restrict access for others. Video calls, extended work hours, and expectations for quiet can effectively transform a shared lounge into a private office, which changes the original purpose of the room.
From the consultant’s perspective, working in a basement without windows may feel uncomfortable or isolating. Many remote workers prefer natural light and a sense of separation between work and sleeping areas. However, choosing a workspace inside a communal area requires consideration for the other people who also rely on that environment to relax and socialize.
The broader issue here revolves around fairness and shared expectations. If everyone contributes equally to rent, communal spaces should remain accessible to all residents. When conflicts arise, clear communication and compromise—such as setting time limits, adjusting work locations, or using external coworking spaces—can help maintain a healthy living arrangement.
Here’s what Redditors had to say:
Many users strongly supported the poster, arguing the living room should remain shared space.
Other commenters pointed out that shared space means everyone can use it.
Some users offered humorous ways to deal with the situation.
Living with roommates often requires flexibility, but shared spaces are meant to remain accessible to everyone. When one person’s routine begins limiting how others can use the home, tension can quickly build and turn small annoyances into larger disputes.
This situation raises interesting questions about remote work and shared housing. Should someone working from home be expected to use their private space, even if it’s less comfortable? Or is it reasonable for them to use communal areas during the day if everyone shares the rent? How would you handle a roommate who turns your living room into their office?
