Where we do what we do.
I’ve been obsessing over workspaces a bit recently. Maybe that’s because I spend so much time in mine these days!
A comfortable, well-lit, accommodating, organized and beautiful workspace can be nothing short of miraculous for one’s mental well-being, productivity, and all around joy while doing what must be done.
Here are just a few spaces that I’ve come across recently that I really appreciate.
This space first struck me because of it’s sophisticated whimsey. The charcoal wall, and natural flooring and desk give the space a calm, relaxed vibe, while the very linear, geometric rhythm of the walls, floors, windows, desk, and even the shelving, create a sense of straightforward seriousness. Then the punches of color, floating shelves, and bold typeface enter the picture. There’s really nothing serious about that, and add this perfect amount of light-hearted whimsey to round everything out. And, of course, there’s that chair. Oh my goodness, that chair.
I also love this space because of its simplicity, elegance, and color. Concrete floors and basic white walls make a great backdrop for that shapely chair, and the spread of artwork above. The abundance of wood in the furniture really serves to warm up the space, I think. And the linear form of the desktop keeps the space looking put together and organized even thought there’s quite a bit of stuff on the tabletop itself. The artwork is, of course, beautifully composed. I love those circular windows into different worlds of color. What inspiring images to gaze into! And the larger set of three along the top do an amazing job of, of course, adding color and beauty, but also bringing the height of the ceilings down a bit. It seems to make the space a little cozier. The deep red-orange pendant lights, do too! What a beautiful splash of color and heat to complement the sweet source of natural light above that happy plant.
Well, now. This space seems organized enough. The desk is light, large, and open. Shelves on the left offer space for books and materials as needed, as well as space for archiving. And the bright, fresh white walls, desktop and other room details combine nicely with the rustic hard-wood floors in, what looks to be, their natural color. But what really makes this space are those spectacular, light-filled windows! And, of course, the cozy reading spot - complete with it’s own tall, bowing plant-friend - that goes along with them. Wow, the light, the views! What a beautiful, meditative spot for inspired work.
Okay, how about some great group work spaces.
I love that this space is so naturally hued. It’s a no-nonsense, let’s-get-this-job-done- and-do-it-well-kind-of-space. There’s lots of lay-out space, though I do wonder why it’s not a little deeper. The individual workspaces do allow for easy collaboration between teammates, as well as plenty of space for viewing work in progress, even with clients. Those light fixtures are just awe-inspiring. They’ve got the equivalent emotional presence of a steam-engine. Their gleaming chrome finish is probably the most pivotal element within this space - they bring a smack of refinement and elegance without loosing any of the casual charm below. And it shall be called, handsomely-functional!
Okay. Look at this space. It’s so bright and fresh. Anything could happen here. The guy with the eyes is making sure we know this. ”Not everything will be okay, but some things will.” I really want to know what kind of work is done here. I’m noticing really clever mounted paper rolls on the wall above the horizontal filing cabinet which makes me think drafting, but there’s basically a whole lot of computer focused space otherwise, so probably graphic design. The chairs and stools, after those angsty images above, are the next best feature. They’re art in and of themselves, both in form and in color contrast. So great. But you knew that.
Alright. Last one. How great is this space?! I love the obvious flexible, fun, but hardworking atmosphere that’s present. I think the linear arrangement of desks helps to create a clear-cut vision of work ethic. Each person has their own space to make their own, and the floating garden storage cabinets help to provide this delineation. However, clearly, everyone can also easily interact and work together - such a perk to any work environment, I feel. I’m also seeing a great space at the back perhaps for meeting clients. The color throughout is what makes this space. Imagine a black and white, or totally neutral scene. The space becomes about ten degrees less fun. Bright colors, bold graphics, and modern forms all make this a space of progressive thinking and results.
There are so many more amaaaazing workspaces out there! What does your workspace look like? What’s your favorite element? What makes it work? What else would you like to do with the space?
