You’re an ever-so-slightly temperamental creative type, what’s one of the things you need most? Ok, the list (at least in my case) is pretty extensive: attention, enough money to survive, steady supplies of sugar and caffeine… But for me, space has to be up there in the top three at least. I’m not only talking about physical space – the mental variety is pretty essential too – but the former can sometimes have a large impact on the latter.
The reason I’m thinking so much about space, or lack of it, at the moment, is the fact I’m currently flat hunting. A little bit of luck has opened up a shared equity opportunity that means I’m actually in the position to potentially buy somewhere – if the luck holds, that is. And it’s massively exciting, but also incredibly scary.
We’ve seen some lovely paces and some really grim ones (yuck, yuck, yuck to the place with underwear all over the floor). And the budget means the flats are never huge, but finding one with an extra room is a bit of a priority – mainly as Ink and I are hoping to share this place when it/if eventually becomes a reality.
Both being creative-types and definitely in need of the alone-time necessary to get any work done, we know where our priorities lie when it comes to flats – and that’s in the potential workspace. I look at rooms and try to imagine working in them and the ones that paint a pretty coffee-filled rose-tinted picture shoot up in my estimation.
I might write most of my first drafts in cafes/on buses/on my lunch break at work, but the second, third, fourth and fifth tends to be done in bed for the time and in the future (flat hunting willing) I’ll hopefully be able to graduate to a study or desk somewhere.
In my opinion, a good space doesn’t have to be a big one; it just has to feel right. What kind of space feels best to you when you’ve got work to get through? Do you like silence or noise? Isolation or action?
Lynsey May 
Somewhere that’s as much of a void as possible works for me. No sound, no distracting decor, and most importantly no distracting internet. I was most productive when I worked at home in my non-internet flat!
I hope you get one of the nice ones.
(I always work in bed too. I think a desk would be better for my back…)
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you know, I read some research the other day that said sitting up straight was actually not that great for your back. We’re designed to lie or stand apparently. I’m going for lying personally.
If only we didn’t like the internet so much eh Dave 😉
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Yeah, I don’t see what’s so great about straight spines and non-wonky bodies anyway. Leave a fascinating skeleton, that’s what I say!
My netbook took me a little while to get used to, but only a little. I guess I only need room for two typing fingers though…
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How I miss that tap tap tap… no wait, that’s the one thing I don’t miss so much 🙂
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I recently moved, and got an Ikea desk for my new room, and it’s working out quite well. Also half-thinking about getting a netbook, though, so I can work on the go.
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Netbooks are so cute. I kind of want one even though I already have a perfectly good and light laptop. I’m impressed at your working at a desk ability, for some reason I always end up walking away from it when I try.
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In the past, space was everything for me…it completely and utterly dictated my mood. Everything had to be just right…
I had to have the perfect notebook. Had to have the perfect pen…and had to have all my “tasks” done. A clear mind was crucial. Now, I write when ever I want. I scribble on random scraps of paper, and use many different pens 🙂 Now, my creative thoughts dominate, and everything else is taking a backseat. Anytime my eyes are open…I am in my perfect work space.
Find a new flat yet?
NF
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Well, I replied to your other comment first, saying I was jealous of your iPad. I take it back, I’m jealous of your ability to cast off those unhelpful habits!
I did! Just a few days ago, I am very, very excited (although still a little nervous).
Thanks for stopping by!
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