A Studio Refresh for Spring
Some of you already know about my studio refresh if you follow me here. But that part of the story doesn't do the space justice. I stepped away from my studio for a few months during the Holidays out of frustration and impatience; a clear sign that I was exhausted and needed a break. I'm not so good at knowing when I need to step away (as I sit here watching my favorite golden hour set behind me) but I'm getting better.
Since I spend so much time in my studio, it was time to give it some TLC and bring in some comforts and coziness. The quickest way to both: pillows! I read somewhere pillows are the adult's version of stuffed animals. I love pillows to bring in texture while sticking with the same color palette and just changing up the sizes with subtle patterns to blend in with solid colors.
Lately, I start my morning writing amidst all the pillows. Then I get ready for the day, check my project tracker for what to work on first, and get started on each task. Easing into the morning has been a game-changer for me – it was something never "allowed" in past office jobs so I'm grateful for the freedom to choose my schedule. Knowing your rhythm is what makes you more productive, not having a required time to start your day. I also get up a bit earlier to have more time for myself.
With each space in our cottage, I like to feel things out before committing. It drives Joel mad sometimes (like how we still don't have many pictures or prints framed on our walls after 4 years of being here) but you have to listen to what a room is telling you it needs, right? One thing was obvious, I needed a large desk. Joel installed a large butcher block slab of wood that runs the length of one wall held up by sturdy piping. Leaving it open underneath feels airier with a shelf above for storage. There's also an anti-fatigue mat hidden under the rug because I switch between standing and sitting on my captain chair (Joel's term). A little footstool adds more coziness and reminds me of the Beauty and the Beast footstool that acts like a dog.
A few baskets for loose ends and washi tape to moodboard my wall per project helps keep it organized but flexible. I used to think to be a graphic designer meant working in a blank space with cool tones, hard lines, and strictly black and white everything. But those spaces never led me to creativity. It felt impersonal, cold, and the furthest away from being able to focus. I'm happy I've finally dropped these ideas that being a graphic designer can only be done one kind of way.
I love the warm, bright, feminine tones that are in my studio now. Little butterfly placemats, a moon poster from my sister-in-law and touches of seashell-toned picture frames with photos that remind me why I do this. I think my studio will always be a work in progress, the way that an artist is always discovering new layers of the world or the world within them. See more studio inspiration and my studio wish list for spring!
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