Image by Robert Crum on Flickr
Having a writing space isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. To be the best writer you can be, give yourself the gift of a dedicated space. Whenever you’re in that space, it will get you in the frame of mind best for writing. Visit that space during the times you’ve given yourself to write.
Perhaps you don’t have much space. I’ve lived in small apartments with children underfoot. In one such place, a corner of the sofa was my writing space, and a crate with my files was tucked away at the end of the couch. It wasn’t ideal, but I did have a large picture window to look out at the scenery. Today, many years later, I can still see in my mind’s eye, the tree swaying in the breeze that constituted the view from that window. Sometimes staring out a window helps when you’re thinking about plot problems.
Today I’m fortunate enough to have an extra bedroom that I’ve turned into my writing space. I have my desk, a bookshelf, a file cabinet, and a loveseat with two end tables. The loveseat is perfect for taking naps, and it’s small enough so that I don’t nap too long.
Some ideas for writers’ spaces
- Turn a corner of any room into a writing space by placing a small desk or table for your computer there. Add a small file cabinet or crate for files, and hide it all behind a decorative screen or shoji door.
- Turn a closet or hallway nook into a writing space. All you need is an extension cord to provide electricity for your computer. You can buy a battery operated closet light that will give bright illumination without needing an electric outlet. If the nook seems too dark, paint it with bright colors, or add more lights. You can also put inspirational photos on the walls around you.
- If you need a quieter environment to write, you might try turning part of a garage into a writing space. If the weather is cold, add a small space heater.
- Many people say not to write in the bedroom, but for some writers it works fine. Sometimes writing in bed, snuggled under a quilt, is the perfect way to get through a story. If you love to write when everyone is asleep, this might be an option you want to give a try.
- It’s also possible to set up a writing space at the kitchen table. This only works if you can get the kids, dogs, and assorted other pets and humans to leave you alone while you work.
- I know of writers who write on their back patios or porches when the weather is fine. Other writers do their best work in coffee shops. It all depends on what works for you. Every writer is different. Some need total silence to write, others like music, movement, and noise as they type. Use your personal preference to find your perfect spot.
What you need for a writing space
- A computer you like to use.
- Pens, pencils, and paper.
- A writing surface. This could be a desk, a board placed on top of two small file cabinets, or even a lapdesk. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just big enough for your keyboard or laptop.
- Something in which to file your stories, clippings, and various other writing odds and ends. If you have room, get a file cabinet. If space is at a premium, get a plastic crate or plastic drawer.
- Something you love to look at. I have a picture of a man’s silhouette my son drew for me hanging on the wall of my writing space. You’ll find yourself staring off into the distance while you think, so why not have something wonderful to look at? Of course, if you’re lucky enough to have a window, you might not need anything else.
Image by Mina Vegan
You are special. This is your goal, to be a writer. Help yourself reach that goal by giving yourself the things you need to get there. Don’t feel guilty, ashamed, or selfish. To get your creative waters flowing, the well needs to be full. Having a place to call your own writing space will help you keep the creative well overflowing.
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Many people say not to write in the bedroom, but for some writers it works fine i think.
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