Space

01

Images

—01. Photo by Martien Mulder.

Words

How much does our space actually affect the work we produce? I know that I definitely always want to be in a great space, a big space, and I suppose it does play a role in my daily mood. When it comes down to getting the work done though, does it really affect the quality? I've been hunting for an apartment, and even with the shop space, it feels like there are some things we could do to spruce it up. So I wonder if it's a matter of never quite being happy, or is there a perfect environment to churn out the best work ever? I feel I've probably done some of my best work in some pretty average conditions; could it be better if I had more space and more natural light? Or is that money better spent elsewhere?

Comments

[wayne pate]

The space matters. Back in 2006 I moved my office out of my house and into a space in Manhattan. I hated it! I felt like a caged lion. As soon as I walked in the door everyday I felt the pressure to sit there and create. It was a very counterproductive environment
for me and I packed it up and moved back to my home in Brooklyn. Obviously this applies to a single individual. Money better spent on good quality tea and Astier de Villatte candles.

[Rob Babigian]

Very thought provoking, Ryan. THIS has been a question at the very heart of my shop's development. I continually question the ROI of my floor space- both as a tangible asset to house and sell goods and the intangibles it fosters such as creative thinking, brand development, etc. I still do not have THE answer, but I think having a space you enjoy being in is an important step. Depending on your business model (and need for actual, physical space) the form the workspace takes needs to be both personal, but productive... and, course, cost effective! As it applies to a living/home space, I am constantly working, thinking, developing business- whether it is a the shop or at home- so it is just as important there too!

[Jason]

I guess most of us would agree the space in which we live and work (like the clothes we wear) are not critical as long as there is a degree of functionality to them. However, a space that is well designed and we find aesthetically pleasing can surely only enhance creativity and the way we feel about ourselves.

Good luck with the apartment hunting.

[Ulysses]

Are you serious?

"To take possession of space is the first gesture of the living; men and beasts, plants and clouds, the fundamental manifestation of equilibrium and permanence. The first proof of existence is to occupy space."

-L'Espace Indicible (Le Corbusier)

Or perhaps you should read some Henri Lefebvre. I recommend The Production of Space for a beginner's reading.

Space is the fundamental unit around us - one of the leading factors in determining how we perceive the built environment. You dabbled into my trade, and I can't help but chortle at your mere questioning of "whether space matters or not."

[V6B0C5]

I agree with you that your surroundings like space definitely affects one's mood. One's mood will affect the final output of our work. Get what you want for the apartment that is well within your limit whether it be rent or purchase. It's a waste of money if you cant afford it. Good luck with the apartment search. Remember location location location, the outside surrounding is just as important as the interior.

[Nemo]

Wow, you're an arrogant prick Ulysses... It's a personal thought with some semblance of architecture. Because it happens that that's how you make a living, you turn into Frank Lloyd Wright. Get a fucking grip.

Who ever wondered "whether space matters or not" anyways?

Of course it does, as Ryan clearly acknowledges. It's pretty plain to me that he's been weighing up the merits of how much investing in a space is going to benefit him compared to investing it elsewhere wherever or on whatever that might be...

To each his own though. Chortle away asshole.

[Ryan Willms]

Alright everyone - thanks for the comments from all angles. We opened the comments back up to try to create a more interesting dialogue between everyone, so I would ask that everyone remains civil.
Ulysses, you're welcome to comment and spend your time reading Inventory, but please be thoughtful in how you respond, and everyone else - let's not make Ulysses feel worse than he does already, he just needs some friendly banter.
Continue...

[.]

Ulysess - "Dabble into my trade"

Man you must feel special quoting Le Corbusier. YOU ARE SO CULTURED! I mean, taking it from a man, like Corb himself...Who specializes in VILLAS. ALSO taking it from the same man that comes up with a city plan to destroy all historic buildings and replace those with his 'wonderful creations'

Garbage. The quote you threw at us is only talking about species occupying space. Nothing to it. He was not talking about the quality of life.

And yes, I am dabbling into your trade because this is MY trade.

To ryan - Of course matters, but why constrict yourself to one area? I personally get motivated the most in the most random areas. Waiting for transit etc... It's all in your head.
I never want to get inspired sitting by myself in a room and trying to work. I need things going on around me. You don't get inspired by white walls and a desk.
Natural light and vitamin D helps though :)