When you think of interior design, you might be thinking about your living room or bedroom, with its comfy couches and beautiful decor. But what does interior design have to do with working? Surprisingly, a lot! If you are looking for ways to become more productive when creating something by hand, the space that you are in has a lot to do with it. And that's where interior design comes in. By following a few simple tips, you can create a workshop that is both comfortable and efficient.
1. Proper Lighting
When working on something by hand, you need to be able to clearly see what you are doing. But having the right amount of light is not as easy as many people think. If there's too little light, it can lead to eye strain and headaches. And if there's too much light it can also cause discomfort and stress. Led lighting options seem to be the common shop lights because they provide the right amount of light without taking up much space and energy. It's always a good idea to have powerful overhead lights as well as some lights that can be directed to what you are working on. It's even better if those lights will hold up for a long time, as hand-made items tend to take a while to create! Because your needs might differ depending on what time of day it is, installing a dimmer switch is always a good idea.
2. Floor Plan
The layout of your workshop is just as important as the lighting. You need to make sure that everything you need is easily accessible. This means having enough space for both large and small tools, as well as materials. It's also important to have a work surface that is large enough to accommodate what you are working on. If you use a lot of power tools, it's important to be mindful of electrical outlets. You don't want to create an entire layout only to realize your circular saw is all the way on the other side of the room. Think about how you want to use the space, the tools you need, and the average size of your projects. Then you can start to layout your workshop. If the floor plan is not conducive to what you need, then you may wish to add some mobile workstations on casters.
3. Storage And Organization
One of the best ways to increase efficiency in your workshop is to organize your space with storage in mind. This means having cabinets and shelves that can store both large and small tools, as well as materials. It's also a good idea to have a place to put away finished projects. Having a place for everything and everything in its place can greatly reduce stress as you are working. It may seem like more work upfront, but it will pay off when you find what you need without having to spend time searching for it.
There is also something very satisfying about a clean and organized space. Just like with the room layout, it's also important to consider how you use your tools. Keeping the things you use most often within reach will save you time and frustration, and also help ensure that you put everything back in place once you're done using it.
4. Temperature Control
One of the biggest challenges in any workshop is maintaining a comfortable temperature. This is especially true during the winter months when the cold can seep in through cracks and windows. Not only is it important to keep your body warm, but you also don't want to be working in an overly hot space. One way to combat this is to install a good HVAC system. If your workshop is in your garage, you may also want to consider adding insulation. And finally, make sure that you have plenty of ventilation. This will help remove any fumes or dust that may be harmful to your health.
5. Comfortable Break Area
Even if you are efficient, working in the same space for hours on end can be tiring. This is why it's always a good idea to include a comfortable break area where you can rest and recharge. It doesn't need to be fancy. Having a water cooler or coffee maker nearby is also a bonus. And don't forget the most important part: a comfortable place to sit and take a break. By making sure your break area is comfortable, you'll be more likely to take the time to relax and drink some water - and that translates to a better end product.
image © Ana Krach
These are just a few of the many interior design tips for your workshop that can help increase efficiency. By taking the time to consider your needs and how you want to use the space, you can create a workshop that is perfect for you. Not only will this increase your productivity, but it will also make the time you spend in your workshop more enjoyable.
