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Building Your Creative Space

Creating a Productive Writing Environment: Tips for Setting Up a Distraction-Free Zome

Building your creative space

Keeping some measure of focus is so important as a writer that you should even try to avoid distractions during your breaks. If you have an issue with distractions in your writing space, this guide will provide tips and tricks for creating the perfect sanctuary.

The Importance Of A Distraction-Free Zone

Whether you’re writing full-time or you’re just getting started, you’ll find that creating your own special writing space has many benefits.

One of them is the ability to avoid distractions. When you carve out your own space, you have more control over what’s around you and can give your work your full attention. Also, when you walk into your own writing sanctuary, you go in there knowing that it’s a place to work. Whether it’s a spare bedroom or a separate personal writing studio, getting into that working mindset could be what you need for success.

Little Things Can Be Distracting

One thing to remember about creating a distraction-free zone is that it isn’t just the TV or your smartphone that can cause an issue. Simple things like lighting and your desk setup can cause problems.

Poor Lighting

You may not realize it, but poor illumination can affect workplace productivity. Working in a room with few windows and without natural light can make it hard to see what you’re doing. Plus, natural sunlight helps to regulate your mood so you’re more alert and focused.

Working in a room with windows also means you don’t need to turn on artificial lights. If you must purchase light fixtures, try LED lights, which are more efficient and last longer. Try to find a bulb with a color temperature closer to 1000k because it’s a warmer light that can put you in a better mood. Color temperatures of 5000k and above produce a bright white light that mimics more of a clinical atmosphere and can be less conducive to creativity.

Poor Seating

How you sit can also be distracting. If you’re constantly in pain or stretching to reach the keyboard, you’ll likely need to stop writing more often than you’d like.

To protect your back, find a chair that lets you sit at a 90-degree angle so you’re not stretching uncomfortably. You also want to create a setup that allows your computer monitor or laptop screen to be level with your eyes so you’re not always looking up or down and straining your neck. Another option is a standing desk, which can help you to be more alert throughout the day.

Eliminate Unnecessary Sounds

There’s a reason why many people turn down the radio in their cars when looking for a street address, and it’s because noise can be distracting. When it comes to your writing and work productivity, noise can pose many issues, including causing stress that can hamper your creativity. Noise can also make it difficult to focus, especially when you’re reading and researching. You may find yourself reading the same sentence repeatedly.

Pick a writing sanctuary far enough from the living room so you don’t hear background noise. If you like to listen to music while writing, consider classical music that will provide inspiration and not have lyrics that can distract your thinking.

If you can’t find a traditional space to make into an office, try converting a place like the garage. Clear out the clutter, find a space near an electrical outlet to plug in your computer, and ensure the garage is insulated so you don’t get too hot or cold during the changing seasons.

The next step would be to soundproof the garage. Find suitable soundproofing material, which may include spray foam or acoustic panels. Start soundproofing the spaces around the main garage and smaller entrance doors. If the garage doesn’t have drywall, stick acoustic foam between the panels on the wall. Finally, consider soundproofing the floor because it can reflect sound waves. A thick and durable carpet will do the trick.

Tools That Can Enhance Your Focus

There are many tools and gadgets that you can use to stay focused and efficient while writing. Look online for a timer that you can sit on your desk. Set a time duration and dedicate that time to avoiding distractions as you write down as many ideas as possible. Another great gadget is a high-quality set of noise-canceling headphones. Use them to play classical music or block out the background noise from other parts of the house.

You can also find various forms of software that help you be more efficient with your writing and editing. One of them is Grammarly. Use it to review your work after it’s written or write it directly into the software, and it will fix grammatical errors as you go. Another tool is FocusWriter, which uses a hide-away interface that keeps distractions on your computer at bay. The tool also provides daily statistics and updates on your writing goals.

Conclusion

Distractions can wreak havoc on your creativity and make it impossible to concentrate long enough to write a quality sentence. Only by creating a personal writing space can you let your imagination run free. Follow the tips and tools discussed here, and your productivity may skyrocket!

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Building Your Creative Space

Comfort and Creativity: Making Your Writing Space Work for You

Building your creative space

When you finally get time to write, you want to work in a space that is conducive to clear thinking and creativity. Few things are as frustrating as trying to produce poetry or prose while sitting in an uncomfortable chair or working in a distracting, noisy space.

However, the exact nature of your writing space is entirely up to you. Screenwriting Dalton Trumbo wrote much of his best work in the bathtub, while non-fiction author Michael Pollan built a bespoke writing hut in his Vermont garden.

Regardless of where you decide to write, you will need to ensure that you are comfortable and properly supported. As an author, you’ll likely spend thousands of hours at your desk every year while crafting your next novel or exploring compelling ideas in your upcoming memoir. That means you should at least invest in a writing setup that supports your health and well-being.

Ancillary Spaces

Many modern writers choose to create an ancillary space separate from their home life to write in. Icons like Virginia Woolf produced some of their best work when they were given access to a room of their own to write in. Woolf likely wrote literary classics like Mrs. Dalloway and To the Lighthouse while working in her writing lodge at Monk’s House, East Sussex, while authors like Maya Angelou favored a blank hotel room when composing volumes like And Still I Rise.

If the idea of an ancillary space is appealing to you, consider converting existing structures — like garages or sheds — into writing rooms. This will help you stay on budget and will give you a space independent from the rest of your home to write in. Being able to “leave” the house can help you form a stronger writing habit, too, as you’ll start to associate your shed or cabin with writing.

Before you commit to writing in an ancillary space like a garage, you’ll want to make some modifications. Start by installing a mini-split system to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Mini-splits are more economical, too, meaning you won’t feel bad about switching on the heating on a cool spring morning when you want to write. This is key, as you want to work in a space that has minimal distractions when you’re trying to work.

Clutter-less Writing Rooms

Every writer is different. Mark Twain produced his best work while hidden between stacks of papers, while Jack Kerouac wrote On the Road on a giant 120-foot-long scroll. However, if you’re struggling to maintain your productivity and clarity of thought when you sit down to work, you may want to declutter your writing space. Get the ball rolling by decluttering:

  • Your Workspace: There’s nothing wrong with leaving out yesterday’s draft, but you probably don’t need to keep half a dozen unused highlighters on your desk 24/7.
  • Virtual Storage: If you write on a PC, clean up your documents to ensure you can easily find old drafts and research quickly when you log on.
  • Unfinished Projects: Keeping old drafts at hand can give you a jolt of inspiration when your creative well is running low, but that 3-month-old scrap of paper with a few lines of prose can likely be filed away.
  • Books: Having a few of your favorite books to hand can be helpful if you like to read while you write. However, you should at least keep these shelved to ensure you are fully focused on your own work when writing.

Decluttering isn’t just good for your productivity — it keeps your space clean. This is crucial if you work in a writing shed, where pests can easily find their way in. Nothing will put you off writing like an ant infestation or a few mosquito bites.

You can keep your space clean and pest-free year-round by sealing off entry points, removing old cups of water, and regularly cleaning down your workstation. Screen your windows in warmer months and use a few natural repellents if you discover the signs of larger pests like mice.

Conclusion

Writing in a space that is conducive to creativity can be transformative if you struggle to get into the flow when working. Simple changes, like creating a more ergonomic setup and decluttering your desk, can spark a period of sustained creative production and may help you achieve your writerly goals sooner. Just be sure to keep your writing room clean to ensure that your writing isn’t interrupted by pests or poor air quality.

Amanda Winstead is a writer from the Portland area with a background in communications and a passion for telling stories. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.

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Building Your Creative Space

Stay Cool, Stay Creative: Setting Up Your Perfect Summer Writing Spot

Building your creative space

Summer is just around the corner, and as the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to step away from the comfort of your favorite cozy cafe or indoor office space, and embrace what the season has to offer. Some of the world’s most famous authors did their best work away from an office space, so don’t hesitate to try something different to spark your creativity.

As a writer, hardly anything can be more inspiring than the beauty of nature. Being able to step outside and let your creativity flow can help you feel like you’re getting a fresh start, or give you that boost you need to get over a creative slump.

While there’s nothing wrong with bringing a notebook or your laptop and finding a shady spot under a tree to write, if you really want to take advantage of the nice weather and write outside as often as possible, consider setting up a designated spot for your work with a few simple upgrades and additions.

Create Your Happy Place

The sky’s the limit when it comes to creating the perfect summer writing spot. Take a look at your existing backyard for inspiration. What can you do to transform it into the ultimate writing location? From a practical standpoint, you’ll need to factor in things like lighting, temperature, and shade. Where does the sun hit at certain times of the day? Will you be able to stay comfortable or will things be too distracting?

Investing in things like a pergola or shade to keep you safe from the sun can be a good place to start. Comfortable and practical furniture is also important. For a writing space outside, consider some of the following pieces:

  • A table or desk
  • A chair or loveseat
  • Cushions
  • Globe lights
  • A patio table for lunch breaks
  • A screen for bug control

With practicalities out of the way, don’t be afraid to think about the things that would provide you with even more inspiration and comfort. Consider a Bluetooth speaker if you like to listen to music while you write. Or, keep a mini fridge nearby so you can enjoy a cold beverage while you take a break.

If you want to enjoy an alternative writing space but don’t want to be completely surrounded by the elements, consider switching things up with a shed, sunroom, or screen tent. These locations can give you the feel of being somewhere new, especially with plenty of windows and screens to enjoy the outdoors, while protecting you from weather and wildlife.

Comfort Is Key

You’re not going to be able to fully tap into your creativity if you’re struggling to find relief from the hot summer sun. Your happy place should be unique, and if that means writing in the backyard on a sunny day, that’s exactly what you should do. But, make sure you’re prioritizing your well-being, first, or being outside will be more distracting than comforting.

Make sure you have a place to go where you can cool off. If you’re writing in the yard, that could be as simple as heading inside to enjoy the air conditioning for a while. Now is the time to make sure your air conditioning unit is working properly. If it isn’t, or you know your existing one is on its last leg, consider investing in a new one. There are plenty of reasons not to buy a used AC. A new one will give you fewer mechanical issues and is likely to come with a warranty. You don’t want maintenance issues disrupting your writing.

Enhance Your Inspiration

There’s no denying the beauty of the great outdoors in the summer. The grass is green, the trees are full, and sounds of nature are all around you. But, if you’re going to transform your outdoor space into the perfect summer writing spot, it’s worth it to invest in lawn care and landscaping practices that will turn your backyard into a picturesque space.

As you decide to care for your yard, choose eco-friendly practices that will keep you from breathing in potential toxins, especially if your writing spot is on the lawn. Some of the easiest ways to turn your backyard into a summer place without harming the environment include:

  • Utilizing native plants
  • Composting
  • Mulching
  • Avoiding pesticides
  • Collecting and using rainwater

There are so many benefits to eco-friendly lawn practices. Reducing chemical use will keep the planet healthier, and will reduce the risk of you, your family, or your pets getting sick when they spend time in the grass. You’ll also encourage wildlife and beneficial insects that can keep away pests that might try to destroy your plants. You’ll also create a space you can feel good about, knowing you’re giving back to the environment. There’s no right or wrong way to build the perfect summer writing spot. With a little time and a few additions, you can spark creativity and enjoy the sunshine while letting your words flow freely.

Amanda Winstead is a writer from the Portland area with a background in communications and a passion for telling stories. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.

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Building Your Creative Space

How Modular Construction Can Make Personal Writing Studios affordable

Building your creative space

As an author, you probably dream of the day when you can write your next novel or poetry anthology in your own writing studio. Something about writing in a dedicated workspace is innately alluring for writers from all backgrounds. A writing studio is free from distraction, well-equipped with resources that you need, and may help you form a stronger writing habit.

However, for most people, writing studios are unattainable. Unless you have tens of thousands of dollars burning a hole in your pocket, you probably can’t afford to bring in a team of builders to erect an ancillary building that meets state specs and is well-equipped for your writing needs.

Today, however, modular construction is set to change that paradigm and may turn your writing studio dream into a reality. 

What is Modular Construction?

Modular construction is an increasingly popular option for folks who want to build ancillary sites on their property. At its core, modular construction is defined as “the process of assembling buildings in a dedicated factory or workspace.” Once assembled, these buildings are shipped to the site where they are to be installed. The benefits of modular construction include:

  • Reduced costs
  • Quicker turnaround
  • Minimal disruption

These benefits make modular construction the go-to for writing studios. You can save some serious cash by opting for a modular studio and won’t have to turn your yard into a construction site while the studio is being built. This can be a real boon if you’re a busy writer and need to produce a manuscript or opinion piece on a tight deadline. 

Modular design gives you a blank canvas to work with, too. While most modular builds look similar, the internal design of the space is entirely up to you. So, while others are working on assembling your home office, you can spend time researching the interior design principles that promote productivity and help you feel at home in your writing space.

Studio Inspiration

Literary giants like Virginia Woolf and Ernest Hemingway paid great attention to the design of their writing spaces. Monk House, Woolf’s final home in Sussex, contains a functional dove-gray writing lodge on the garden grounds. Similarly, Hemingway did much of his writing in a second-floor studio that overlooks palm trees in Key West, Florida.

Nowadays, you can even purchase a modular version of Woolf’s writing hut in Monk’s House. The Modular build comes in Dove Grey and features the same iconic French double doors and deck. This type of space could provide perfect inspiration if you enjoy writing while a cool breeze blows in.

You don’t need to decorate your studio like your favorite authors to enjoy the benefits of a dedicated writing space, but you should abide by some basic rules when laying out your design. Start by installing full-spectrum light bulbs. These bulbs ensure that light positively affects your mood by mimicking natural light to foster mental sharpness and sharpen your mental faculties. This can lower stress and help you feel at ease in your new studio, too.

You can also draw inspiration from other mediums that move you. For example, if you’re a fiction writer who enjoys surrealist themes, consider hanging thought-provoking abstract art on your walls. Alternatively, if you enjoy writing realism, you might want to purchase iconic artwork by portrait artists like Annie Lebowitz or Steve McCurry. These images will help you tap into the kind of human spirit you want to capture when writing and may help you beat writer’s block.

Building Your Writing Space

Once your modular space arrives, you’ll want to take steps to make it comfortable and functional. This doesn’t need to break the bank, as small changes can make a big difference. Get the ball rolling by utilizing DIY writing sanctuary tips like:

  • Functionality: A beautiful hardwood swivel chair may look the part in your studio, but will it support your posture when writing from dawn to dusk? If not, consider opting for a more modern office chair with ergonomic features.
  • Comfort: Install an HVAC unit and an air purifier if you want to work in the space year-round. This will add some extra costs to your space but will pay dividends when you can still use your writing studio in comfort for 8+ hours a day in the winter months.
  • Break-Space: Consider bringing in an additional chair where you will sit, snooze, and relax away from the desk. A quick break can be the perfect tonic if you’re mentally fatigued and need to hit the reset button after a lengthy writing session.
  • Nature: Letting natural light and a calming breeze enter your space can help you de-stress and feel at peace in your space. Consider bringing in some houseplants to further blend the boundaries between nature and your writing studio.

Building a writing space that meets your needs is all about experimentation and adjustments. Get started by nailing the basics like installing an HVAC system and adequate lighting. This gives you a strong foundation to build on and will ensure that you’re able to work in your studio year-round.

Conclusion

As a writer, you should be able to sit down and work regardless of your physical location. However, if you want to maximize your productivity and write in comfort, a writing studio is the way to go. You can reduce the cost of building a studio and minimize delays to your writing process by leaning on modular construction designs. These are budget-friendly and will be delivered with a quick turnaround. You don’t have to worry about erecting the structure yourself, either, meaning you can focus on making interior design choices that inspire you to write.

Amanda Winstead is a writer from the Portland area with a background in communications and a passion for telling stories. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.

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Building Your Creative Space

Finding Inspiration in New Horizons: Moving to Create Your Ideal Writer Space

Building your creative space

It’s possible to write anywhere. Famous written works were written in a range of locations — from New York taverns to French prisons. However, some environments are undoubtedly more conducive to creativity. Your characteristics and preferences can also make one place better than the other when you want to feel focused or inspired. You may crave the solitude of rural life or the hustle and bustle of the city. You could desire a cozy nook, a mobile van with access to nature, or a quirky loft space. Whether you want to go out for an afternoon to write, travel for weeks at a time, or even make a permanent move, you can create your ideal writer space by going somewhere that jives with your personality, taste, and goals.

How Changing Your Environment Fuels Creativity

Switching things up can train your brain to think differently. This is important when you’re either writing from a differing perspective or if you want to see a topic from a different point of view. You could even gain all new ideas from changing your scenery. In general, changing your environment can enhance your writing by giving you:

  • A feeling of freedom;
  • An avenue to break free from writer’s block;
  • Distractions that demand creative problem-solving;
  • An elevated, or just affected, mood;
  • Exposure to varying cultures;
  • Novel surroundings that lead to unique ideas.

All that to say, unconventional workspaces don’t automatically equal enhanced creativity. Rather than just looking for something new and different, you should strive to find an environment best suited to your specific needs and work style. You can travel somewhere to find inspiration, but you may not be able to work if it’s crowded and you find it difficult to write unless you have peace. You can certainly go to these exciting places, but be realistic about your schedule and where you plan to do the bulk of your writing.

Considerations for Moving as a Writer

If you find yourself constantly searching for inspiration in spaces instead of your own home, you can always move your home base. This may involve moving somewhere in the mountains where it may be more secluded or perhaps a city that has a lot of museums you can peruse when you’re not writing. If you choose to relocate and move somewhere new, make sure you’re prepared. Otherwise, you may be too distracted and stressed about the move, itself, to be inspired to write. When thinking of moving to create your ideal writer space, consider:

  • Budget;
  • Climate;
  • Local amenities and attractions;
  • Travel and accommodations;
  • Timeline.

If you find a place you desire to move to and it is within your budget, you can start planning your move. Just remember to pin down exactly why you’re making this change for your writing career. If you’re moving to get a fresh perspective, for example, moving a long distance for a short period could work for you. On the other hand, you may feel more comfortable in a different city and want to make a permanent move. If that’s the case, be sure to visit your new location before making the big move to see if it feels right. Another option is to travel frequently and work on the road.

Choosing a Nomadic Lifestyle

Seeking new horizons can mean desiring to travel around to more than just one place. If that’s the case for you, you might want to consider a brief or extended stint living in an RV. This can give you the option of switching your location whenever you please, especially if one isn’t conducive to creativity for you anymore. Living as a digital nomad can offer you:

  • Flexibility;
  • Cost savings;
  • A minimalist lifestyle;
  • Closeness to nature;
  • A sense of community.

You can connect with other nomad writers online or at RV camps to share your journey and bond over trials and successes. Just remember that you will be working with limited space and will need to equip your van or RV with a source of reliable internet if you have to submit any of your work on the road. If you want to write without internet access, this can give you a great opportunity to unplug.

Making Any Space Conducive to Productive Writing

Whether you choose to buy a home, rent an apartment, or travel around in an RV, you can design your very own writing sanctuary within those walls. Before making a big decision like moving, it’s helpful to visualize what you want your daily life to look like in that new space. Think about what you need to do your best work. Some examples of space considerations include:

  • Quiet, soundproof space;
  • Bustling background noise;
  • Seasonal changes, like calming rain or sunny days for walks;
  • Natural lighting;
  • Enough room for your preferred desk;
  • Comfortable seating.

Whatever your style, you can find decor to fill up your new space with inspiring pieces. If you find you still need a change-up in your new writing space, you can always pop over to a new-to-you coffee shop or library for a change of pace. Just remember that you are in control of your surroundings, and you can find the right environment to put magic onto the page.

Amanda Winstead is a writer from the Portland area with a background in communications and a passion for telling stories. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.