As makers and artists, few things are more sacred than your workspace. Maybe it’s an end table in the living room or a quiet attic nook — finding a place to harness that energy is paramount. The folks over at Flavorwire recently posted photographs of desks that were witness to the creative fervor of cultural luminaries. Whether or not fame comes your way, never underestimate the power of a good desk and a quiet corner to inspire greatness.
Woody Allen
Tina Fey
Roald Dahl
Susan Sontag
Milton Glaser
Jane Austen
What does your workspace look like? Upload your photos to our Open Studio Tour Flickr group or describe it in the comments below!
220 comments
Sign in to add your ownAvianInspirations says:
I've loved Roahl Dahl's attic work space for years! I would love to curl up there and work/read a book/drink tea. Truth be told, my work space look's a lot more like Tina Fey's.
1 year ago
LillysPaper says:
Awesome - I love peaking into other peoples studios or work spaces.
1 year ago
VintageEye says:
Add some dogs, a ton of cat hair & a 2 inch layer of dust & you'll have mine!
1 year ago
tigersanddragons says:
Roald Dahl`s space is very intriguing. My work spaces are as chaotic as Tina Fey`s, my partner converted a long desk into a jeweller`s work bench for me...the extra space just attracts piles of tools and projects.
1 year ago
accentonvintage says:
Tina Fey is so funny! Work places can be an individual's nesting space!
1 year ago
TipsyTimeMachine says:
I'd love a closer look at Roald Dahl's space, can't stop looking at that cool carpet.
1 year ago
frommylifetoyours says:
Cool , its nice is see other people's work spots.
1 year ago
acuriousbrood says:
Upload photos....everyone is cleaning there workspace right now, aren't they.
1 year ago
bodicegoddess says:
Roald Dahl's definitely reminds me of my great-grandfather's workspace in the basement of his house. He had a chair with a little table pulled up to it, and all of his fly tying supplies piled neatly on top.
1 year ago
KeepEvolving says:
I absolutely love seeing these places and visualizing the actual spaces where such brilliance was born.
1 year ago
paulofnavarone says:
cool, i was just thinking etsy should do a photo series on etsians workspaces after the featured sellers space looked so good. nice to see some famous ones.
1 year ago
acuriousbrood says:
their....love Roald Dahl's nook, small, yet cozy and functional.
1 year ago
Floreal says:
work space.. so important.. I like it a little bit messy..;)
1 year ago
mooshoopork says:
that first man happens to be an ancestor of mine.. hehe and yay for peoples unique work spaces! its always nice to see where the creativity runs most :) thanks for sharing
1 year ago
NangijalaJewelry says:
Oh this is so much fun to be able to take a peek at their work spaces :-)
1 year ago
maggiemaevintage says:
all's I'm going to say is "I'm glad I'm not the only one."
1 year ago
PDXfabricdeli says:
I feel much better ...I'm not messy after all. It is creativity!!!
1 year ago
PlumeandPetals says:
Wow~! Love these pics =) The studios are all so unique in their own way!
1 year ago
SusanFaye says:
...Creative clutter is a good thing. Right, Tina?
1 year ago
GirlAGoGoDesigns says:
My work space is functional, but not very pretty and it's always on the messy side.
1 year ago
NonasNitting says:
My work space is mostly neat. I like organized clutter.
1 year ago
RavensCrafts says:
Love this article. My workspace is kinda like Tina Fey's in the clutter but that is how it works :)
1 year ago
RavensCrafts says:
PS Woody Allen's workspace was quite unexpected !
1 year ago
dearpumpernickel says:
I love the picture of Susan Sontag, she was so cool. I also really like how almost feminine Woody Allen's space is. And a bit childlike too!
1 year ago
StudioConestoga says:
I love J Austen's work 'spot'. Goes to show true talent doesn't need a fancy work space or fancy gadgets to create master pieces
1 year ago
jammerjewelry says:
Wonderful article, thanks!
1 year ago
juicylucydanger says:
Wonderful pictures! My neat workspace belies my cluttered mind :)
1 year ago
PereLachaise says:
I always love to see other artists' workspaces and studios !! <3
1 year ago
100applegate says:
So inspiring! I love these spaces! Best, CC
1 year ago
SoliDeoGloriaSDG says:
How inspiring to see the greats work areas!
1 year ago
GRapJewelry says:
My oldest son move out and I've cleaned and sorted and turned his old bedroom into my craft room (with 3 HUGE bookshelves added for about half of my oldest daughter's book collection 0.0 ) However, I have to admit that I'm still most comfortable sewing/crafting at my kitchen table *sigh* ~Dana
1 year ago
MissHildebrandt says:
One of the best visuals I've had in a long time. oh, I'm scrolling back up to look again in detail. Makes me want to hide in my little nook!
1 year ago
fairyrealm says:
How nice to see other work spaces. Mine is sort of Roald Dahlish.
1 year ago
mylenefoster says:
The photos are really engaging. Such a personal look into the writer's mind. It is as individual as the creators themselves. Painter's studio pictures are also a favorite of mine. It's like looking into their heads!
1 year ago
VonlenskaVintage says:
cool post!!
1 year ago
mcldrygoods says:
love these glimpses into anothers' workspace/interior space. :)
1 year ago
MagicMarkingsArt says:
Almost every image shown proves it's not the size nor the cleanliness that count. For the artist, it's the creative energy put forth.
1 year ago
judebond says:
for me clutter = creativity
1 year ago
pattyclova says:
this is really awesome!
1 year ago
SunshineSparrow says:
i try to make it at least an organized mess so i can at least find what i'm looking for on a whim, but that's not always the case. at the very least there are organized piles.
1 year ago
penumbraimages says:
Very interesting article thanks for giving us a peek at where artists create!!!
1 year ago
jennyleefowler says:
What a treasure! Work is where the scissors are: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jennyleefowler/sets/72157622740722148/.
1 year ago
granatina says:
Wow, I like it! Great article! More, more, more!!!
1 year ago
1001days says:
exciting...
1 year ago
SweeterThanSweets says:
I love Tina Fey's. We always see photos of workspaces that are amazing, to-die-for, beautiful, perfectly organized. I think, more often than not, workspaces in real life look more like hers.
1 year ago
makingthishome says:
awesome! Tina Fey's spot completely caught me off guard in this collection.
1 year ago
weirdamiga says:
Ah, Tina Fey is my fairy godmother!
1 year ago
geralyngray says:
I love love love Tina Fey's!!!!! I just uploaded my space......one day I will take a picture when it is messy!
1 year ago
MissTessaMelissa says:
I just started paying attention to my studio. I'm in here all of the time, but it has always been more about function than decoration. I am painting, putting vintage wallpaper on the back panel of my bookcases, getting decorative bins and boxes, painting the furniture all white (for contrast), and hanging up artwork. Pretty soon my favorite place in the house will be my favorite place in the world!
1 year ago
Badart says:
I love to see other peoples space too, mine is conroled chaos. I am soo in the zone when I am there. I like Dahl and Austen; extreme examples.
1 year ago
collectiblesatoz says:
Interesting article. I am always working on my space.
1 year ago
mythofus says:
my husband told me i could have the spare bedroom of our rental house entirely for all my stuff- that way (being *slightly* messy) we could just close the door when we have people over. so now i have a room with a lovely desk and boxes from our move two years later... and my workspace is *still* all over the house =)
1 year ago
girliepains says:
Gorgeous spaces!
1 year ago
NaturalPetProducts says:
Love the Tina Fey, what a hoot. Cramped quarters is something some of us know only too well :-) TY!
1 year ago
BeesWings says:
Fun article! This confirms my suspicions that a little chaos is part of the creative mind (for many of us anyways...) I need to present this evidence to my husband so he quits nagging me to clean up my mess. :)
1 year ago
honeyandbee says:
Oh oh oh! Am I allowed to shamelessly self-promote? I made a dollhouse miniature of that Jane Austen table and chair! It made me gasp out loud to see it here, as if I'd stumbled upon a picture of my own workspace. http://www.etsy.com/transaction/26341045 I love you Tina Fey for making me feel not so bad about my workspace mess. (And for being generally awesome.) And wow, Woody Allen, I did not expect to see your name under that picture.
1 year ago
glasfaden says:
Hahaha... mine looks often like Tina Fey's minus the baby, esp. if a deadline is nearby or my head is full of ideas. Never able to keep it tidy. Thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
blesseday says:
I highly doubt that is the space in which Woody Allen wrote his best works. That is clearly a very contemporary space, put together with overall house decor in mind--in other words, NOT from during his union with Mia Farrow, or before. When Woody married his former daughter, a sort of pretense overtook over his public persona, and looking at that writing space makes me think it is sterile of his real inner self, it is an attractive facade. And certainly his writing in these later years is not nearly as true, as honest, as sharp, as savory; so, what did Woody Allen's creative space look like back when he was at his creative peak? That would show us so much more about him, his creative process.
1 year ago
PattiTrostle says:
Love this. Always nice to see where people work!
1 year ago
Handamade says:
I was thinking of my workspace that so much on my table, no matter I start cleaning, again it's going back the same thing. Looking all this pictures I'm glad I'm not the only one either.:) Thanks for sharing......
1 year ago
LivingOnVelvet says:
This post is right up my alley!
1 year ago
AmberGypsySky says:
perfect timing! I've just organized my workspace :)
1 year ago
elisemahan says:
I love this! It is delightful to see how other people work in their creative spaces!
1 year ago
ItchinStitchin says:
Wonderful!! I use to have a really small closet that I worked out but since we moved I have a small room. I have a chalkboard wall to keep my kids busy and use vintage furniture & items to store my supplies.
1 year ago
PortugueseVintage says:
tina fey office reminds my office
1 year ago
1button says:
I love this! I just knew that under all of my fabric and buttons that great things are evolving!
1 year ago
jewellerytreasures says:
some of those work spaces looked so cosy!!
1 year ago
JRockJewelry says:
It is like a window into their soul. Makes you feel like you got a private tour of their creative process! Lovely!
1 year ago
LBCpaper says:
Oh I LOVE this! Now I feel okay about having an extremely cluttered desk.
1 year ago
joannafrombama says:
I'm checking out the flickr photos...I love seeing others creative spaces! :0)
1 year ago
stampgirl45 says:
My 48" x 48" work table usually ends up with only enough space for a single sheet of paper. But I love it!
1 year ago
MamaFarfalla says:
jane asten must have had bad back pain. Loved Tina Fey's photo!
1 year ago
honeyandbee says:
I'm afraid if I posted a picture of my workspace, nobody would ever buy from me again. I'm not famous like Tina Fey.
1 year ago
Lin222 says:
Wow, amazing photos of amazing work spaces. Glad to know that other artists have messy workspaces also. *wink* Lin
1 year ago
KylieO says:
How good was the contrast of Jane Austen's space at the very end?
1 year ago
DayMountainDesigns says:
Very nice. Inspiration can come from so many places.
1 year ago
Everydayness says:
Love this!
1 year ago
bedouin says:
I love this ~ its fun to see who you jive with "famous style" ~ I'm the coziest in woody's space
1 year ago
poorjimsvintage says:
So cool. I never thought about how interesting someones work space could be.
1 year ago
grammagramma says:
I identify with every single one of these... Great Show!
1 year ago
maggiesraggedyinn says:
Very interesting article. I cannot help but wonder if any of us are ever really satisfied with our workspace... I have been trying to the perfect place to work in since 30 years.. alas.. it is still a work in progress.
1 year ago
evesimone says:
I'm obsessed w work spaces, I always look through Flickr when I cant sleep. Thanks for posting!
1 year ago
prairiechicxx says:
Great Article, and perfect timing... I have had an 'artist block' for months now & finally decided it was because my workspace was not conducive to creating. So I tore it all apart yesterday & I have a huge mess, and I know it will get worse before it gets better. But I have a strong and clear vision that it will look just like Jane Austins when I am finished :-).
1 year ago
WoodlandCottage says:
What a tremendous insight into these perrsonages and personalities--it's fascinating. I love Woody Allen's furniture selection... Thank you for sharing.
1 year ago
ProsperosBookshelf says:
Why doesn't anyone mention your first photo
1 year ago
ee333 says:
Wow.. Who would have thought, Woody Allen?.. Hmm.... Cool... I love me some BeeEeZzzzzz ;)
1 year ago
True2West says:
Perhaps you meant ... never underestimate (as in "take too lightly) the power of a good desk? And yes, love this post.
1 year ago
ee333 says:
As for the first photo... I LOVE love, love Mark Twain w/o question... My all time FAV!! That's a place you can spread my ashes, surrounded by BOOKs, BoOks, and more BoOKs .....
1 year ago
percivalroad says:
oh i love this post!! some great spaces...
1 year ago
TEJIDOS says:
GEEE THANKS for making us gals/guys feel there's nothing wrong with our messy/creative workspaces... Hooraay for Viva la Vida Messy! Sometimes i get ideas out of my messy-ness...and sometimes (not often) i just have to clean up to find my stuff...haha
1 year ago
dotqueen says:
Once I finally get a certain project organized, I no longer have any interest in making them any more. But I am one of those people who loses her scissors every 5 minutes too. I always wondered about what happened to my left brain.
1 year ago
dotqueen says:
Isn't Mark Twain interesting. Came in on a comet and left on the same.
1 year ago
SugarCubeVintage says:
fantastic post...so fun to peek into the spaces of artists!
1 year ago
WhisperingOak says:
Oh how wonderful, I love to see other people's creative space. Jane Austen's is just amazing. A window to a story.
1 year ago
ThornAppleMarket says:
Definitely makes me want to create a more inspiring work space for myself! Great post.
1 year ago
Peachygirl says:
How encouraging to see I'm not alone when it comes to being a little messy when it comes to work spaces! I'm actually relieved to know such creative luminaries didn't insist on having everything neat as a pin. Seeing their rooms actually frees me from feeling guilty about the mess that surrounds me sometimes as I do my own creating. Thanks for sharing...I'm inspired! :)
1 year ago
denises72 says:
I loved this post! My workspace gets very messy at times, but I always seem to know where everything is. Now, has anyone seen that beautiful, special bead that I am looking for?
1 year ago
casamoda says:
very inspiring.
1 year ago
Gridelin says:
Love this post!
1 year ago
ShoponSherman says:
My space is cluttered with a walking path through which I have to contort myself as I make my way over to my pic taking corner....I've only knocked one thing over in the past month lol.
1 year ago
ellenhowardhandmade says:
These are all great. My space is my escape, a place where I am me uncensored, my space is like me, sometimes neat, other times messy.
1 year ago
Peachygirl says:
I forgot to mention...sometimes when my usual work space gets a little TOO cluttered but I have a project to get done right away, I'll spread everything out on my BED...because that way I know I'll HAVE to declutter it all that same night so I'll have a place to sleep! I figure whatever works! :)
1 year ago
PollenBlooms says:
Two long tables, sewing machine and overlocker, ironing board...all piled high with fabric to enspire creativity, out for me to see so I know what I have. Oh, and a cupboard with fabric spilling out:) I did have it neat as a pin but I couldn't find what I was looking for.... I love Tina fey's space...I also have little fingers on my computer and scissors!!
1 year ago
trafalgarssquare says:
Hahaha! Tina Fey's workspace looks familiar! Loove Woody Allen's space...and Mark Twains'.
1 year ago
trafalgarssquare says:
Hahaha! Tina Fey's workspace looks familiar! Loove Woody Allen's space...and Mark Twains'.
1 year ago
mab9999 says:
that's woody allen's space? seriously, you could knock me over with a feather i'm so astonished! it's so ... so ... NOT manhattan!
1 year ago
LANCERIKA says:
Susan Sontag at her " in sharp contrast with Jane Austen simple table...truly inspiring! merci for these wonderful pics:)
1 year ago
LANCERIKA says:
I meant Susan's desk minimalist space Just books and paper...and her ideas...
1 year ago
realfaery says:
Absolutely superb collection! I thought you will not miss Jane Austin!!:))
1 year ago
DreamReignDesigns says:
i uploaded three of my workspace..loved the jane austin!
1 year ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
Great photos, I love Tina Fey's workspace he he : )
1 year ago
gemagenta says:
Great post!!! I LOVE jean austen desk, so neat and peaceful, mine usually looks like tinas space :s haha
1 year ago
delectabledenim says:
i love this! i can't wait to move into our new house - i will have my very own workspace too! :D
1 year ago
Bienfait says:
All very individualistic spaces culminating in buckets of successful 'fruits of their labour of love'. Love it
1 year ago
areyoutakingmeout says:
OOo wonderful post! I prefer my desk messy with all the items spread out, I get more inspired that way =P
1 year ago
Sunshineshelle says:
Freaking fantastic... but why not show a cluttered workspace???
1 year ago
Artenciel says:
I love Woody Allen´s working place, it realy reminds me of the old house from my mom where I grew up as a child, same style, same furniture. And of course Roald Dahl´s working place is so cosy and nice! you can see my working place at http://mercedes-artenciel.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-room.html
1 year ago
UnadillaWoodworks says:
Add lots of sawdust, less notes and pictures and more nails and wood glue and you have UnadillaWoodwork' Shop!
1 year ago
pixestreasurechest says:
I think our workspaces are an extension of our personality...I have areas scattered throughout my house, but my main area is not well organized, otherwise, I couldn't create! Attempts at organization usually end up being sidetracked by creating!
1 year ago
Parachute425 says:
Thanks for the peek.
1 year ago
bmused says:
Love this post! Woody Allen's space is wonderful!
1 year ago
oliviasgarden says:
I LOVE this! I'm so glad that creativity doesn't have to be neat! I couldn't be creative if it was. My work space is covered gemstones and bags of beads and tools....everywhere even though I have five sets of utility drawers. And very often I have to work around one of our two cats - both of which are very helpful! I always wonder how much cat hair is acceptable in the background of a good photo because no matter how hard I try, there's always at least one! What a great post!
1 year ago
BirdsChasingBugs says:
I just got a dedicated work space and it's a holy mess! Thanks to Tina Fey, I'm a little more ok with it! Something about the simplicity of Roald Dahl's space is kind of amazing too. Thanks for this awesome post!
1 year ago
AlbertinesCreations says:
This is great! I never believe anyone who claims to work in a tidy work space.
1 year ago
crumblescookies says:
Tina Fey.. You Go Girl! Keep working under the desk, while the Babe takes over the computer :) Very Amazing & Thought Provoking! Either cluttered or simple All so Talented...
1 year ago
greenfrills says:
Oh, to be like Jane Austin or Woody Allen, HA - I'm a mess but it's organized!
1 year ago
theroyal says:
i am honestly surprised at Woody Allen's work space
1 year ago
stelladottie says:
I feel better now! :)
1 year ago
TheTeaEmporium says:
Each man for himself, how comforting.
1 year ago
LilBeeDesigns says:
Seeing how such iconic people carve out a corner for their work makes me feel right on the mark (even though I don't think I'll reach that level).
1 year ago
PyxusPassionProject says:
Wow - so inspiring! My space is a "hot mess" as my friend would say... lol Looks chaotic at times but definitely organized under the piles of patterns and fabric!
1 year ago
twostars321 says:
Love the pics. Yea Tina Faye is more me I even got a bigger desk bacaues my old one just wasn't big enough well new one is the same way clean it in the morning by eaving back to a mess again.
1 year ago
BirdTrouble says:
love this article.
1 year ago
kayratastaki says:
I love this, very inspiring
1 year ago
littlebugjewelry says:
LOL, I'd be WAY too embarassed to show my workspace without bring in a backhoe first!
1 year ago
CreativeCloudDesigns says:
It's like peaking in someone's brain without the anatomy part.
1 year ago
littlesaplingtoys says:
Love this article, thank you!
1 year ago
AliceCouture says:
I'm checking out the Flickr photos...a lot of beautiful work spaces! :) beautiful post!!!
1 year ago
thebeachhousegallery says:
What a great topic to write about: the space where we create. I love the Jane Austin desk, it is so serene. Many years ago I scoured furniture shops in search of a partner's desk, and came-up empty handed! I now have one large mahogany desk, and one Scandinavia modular desk. Just like a kitchen if you keep it free of clutter, so will the mind stay free of clutter, and hopefully the artistic mind then can spread itself freely. Inez Dunn
1 year ago
necklush says:
Sometimes our space looks like an outtake from "Hoarders"... I think I can relate to Tina Fey's space (minus baby - and more stacks of CDs"!
1 year ago
tripperdungan says:
This post is great. I like to take pictures of my workspace every now and again just to step back and get a different perspective.
1 year ago
SavoyFaire says:
Great insight to great minds!
1 year ago
ankal says:
wow, so interesting. thanks for sharing! your posts are always very inspiring.
1 year ago
ItsBella says:
I remember seeing that photograph of Tina Fey's work space a few years ago. I was so intrigued by ALL of the post its!
1 year ago
MysticHillsNgaroma says:
I would upload but I can't find my camera in the pile!!
1 year ago
MysticHillsNgaroma says:
I have a chicken usually on my workspace....a real live one too.....!!
1 year ago
deesbowsnthings says:
Woody Allen's space is very welcoming! But with three kids in my house my workspace looks more like Tina Fey's lol!
1 year ago
SISTERBATIK says:
How timely that we saw this! Last week we photographed our tiny work space and shared it on our blog - take a look here: http://sisterbatik.blogspot.com/2011/02/she-burns-brighter-now-shes-on-fire.html We thought it was a great way for potential buyers and other creators to see what inspires and informs our craft. We love to see other (and in this case very famous)creative work spaces - thanks for sharing.
1 year ago
ChrissiesRibbons says:
Wow- I adore this article. Jane Austen's workspace is quite humbling.
1 year ago
BarnshopAntiques says:
Love this post and I love Roald Dahl. My workspace keeps changing, as we are converting our 1800 farmhouse into a B&B. I keep reminding myself "change is good".
1 year ago
efratdeutsch says:
Thank you for that! I love to see other people workspace. Great post :)
1 year ago
emwi says:
Woody Allen's workspace looks like what I'd imagine Winnie the Pooh's workspace would look like.
1 year ago
5gardenias says:
completely fascinating to see where the creative spirits make their nests...
1 year ago
iluxo says:
I've noticed a beautiful workspace makes me feel more creative. I blogged about it recently, actually. I love Susan Sontag so much.
1 year ago
AnnTig says:
Thanks for sharing :)
1 year ago
ArtMadeByTammy says:
Awesome post!
1 year ago
KellyStilesDesign says:
What an awesome post! I can relate to Tiny Faye's work space.
1 year ago
econica says:
Fantastic article. It's inspiring to see what surrounded the greatest talents of past and present....
1 year ago
paulajeansgarden says:
i do a lot of work on my vintage ironing board. It sits by a bright window and i take product images on it, package items, set up little still lives, iron fabric and ribbons...i love it that it's so domestic. my computer desk might as well be empty except for the monitor and my printer--well i do have an archaic Tiffany desk set on it just for fun.
1 year ago
CarlaValverde says:
lovely!!!
1 year ago
moninesfaeries says:
I have a great art room,airy and bright with pale colors, it's perfect but i STILL work on the dining room table! I just always gravitate there!
1 year ago
strawberrycouture says:
There is a saying, "A cluttered desk is a sign of a genius".
1 year ago
speakbubble says:
This is a fun article
1 year ago
byleedesign says:
I like ETSY Open Studios!!
1 year ago
ikabags says:
Always nice to see where people work , really love it ! Thanks :)
1 year ago
blindpigpress says:
"You may remember that Mark Twain preferred to lie supinely in bed while composing those rather dated and boring efforts which contemporary scholars try to prove meaningful. Veneration of Mark Twain is one of the roots of our current intellectual stalemate." — Ignatius J. Reilly, A Confederacy of Dunces
1 year ago
cheever says:
Very cool. I love seeing Roald Dahl's. The Tina Fey photo, however, is from an American Express Ad that she did a year or so ago, so I kind of doubt that this is her real desk/space. Just sayin'!
1 year ago
sewtara says:
I this this just shows you what creative people will do to express themselves, hunker down and nest wherever they can. I make the most of my corner in the basement next to the freezer. I gave my nice sunny 'studio' up when we had our second child and he needed a bedroom! :)
1 year ago
heatherfuture says:
WOW. This is amazing. What inspiring glimpses into talented people! Thanks for posting this!
1 year ago
PrettySelfContained says:
I was thinking early Martha Stewart, but no, it was Woody Allen! Fascinating!
1 year ago
FourCharms says:
I want to curl up in Roald Dahl's chair...
1 year ago
GoSho says:
What a great topic! It is amazing how different all the work spaces are and how the mind works to create. It's true when you are very involved in your creation it doesn't matter how fancy the workspace, rather it matters that you have anough space to create. The creation is the diva not the space after all who can recall anything of Monet's studio. It is the ability and the freedom to create that is so soulful and satisfying. Remember that when you are holed up in a corner of a room with homemade shelves amde from boxes or crates that many creative people in this world may not have the tools, freedom, or option to create and be able to manifest their own original thoughts and ideas instead of having to work in an environment of someone else's ideas. We are so very lucky. My greatest satisfaction is to finish a bag and know that if it weren't for my ideas and my work to create,this bag would not exist. The important thing is to keep turning the wheel no matter how tightly we are all cramped.
1 year ago
PixelatedPixie says:
Very interesting. I heart Milton Glaser's work space!
1 year ago
julessabjewelry says:
I'd say Tina Fey's workspace is a lot more like most artisans... When we upload photos to say, "hey, here's where I work." I'd be surprised if most have cleaned up prior to the photo session. Mine goes through phases, when I'm out there a lot, it's a complete mess - but, when I spend a few days away, it stays clean. Thanks for sharing the famous spaces. It's nice to know my workspace is not alone in its chaos.
1 year ago
AlikiBags says:
How I loved reading this and some of my fellow Etsyans' comments! I am struggling so hard to move into my small bedroom so that my large former bedroom can become my 'Studio' How posh is that!? It is also a great relief that I'm not the only hoarder and 'creative chaos' worker. Thank you for that, julessabjewellery ! x
1 year ago
stubborndog says:
Great post! It gets me thinking about how much comfort fuels creativity. It doesn't have to be organized - it just has to feel like home.
1 year ago
katryoshka says:
Just had a bit of a tidy up today but its still total chaos - and I wouldn't have it any other way :)
1 year ago
rhfoxoriginals says:
I LOVE Tina's space. I have told my mom since i was seven that I couldn't be creative in a tidy space!
1 year ago
KozyCanines says:
I wish I could get by with Jane Austen's set-up!! But as my husband says- "Clutter equals creativity!" I think he wants something, no way does he like my mess!!!
1 year ago
JewelsbyJasmin says:
There's nothing I like more than sneaking a peak into someone else's work space. I just love this article!
1 year ago
hodgepodge86 says:
I loved seeing all the work spaces! Its amazing how different they all are, how at home you have to feel to do anything artistic. I want my work space to look like Woody Allen, but its more like Tina Fey, only with wire bits, books to the ceiling and beads all over the place. Thank you so much!
1 year ago
HisBlessings says:
I believe I am a Tina Fey while working, but I always end up like Woody Allen at the end of the day. I like every thing in it's place. I agree, his work space was very unexpected.
1 year ago
LoveLettersByDina says:
My work is actually the excuse for my workplace...
1 year ago
BlessedRepublic says:
I spend 30 minutes before starting to make my workspace like woody allen and once I start working and kids join me it becomes like Tina Fey. Inspiring, huh!
1 year ago
kathyjohnson3 says:
Just goes to show you, not alot of space is needed to create beauty!
1 year ago
HouseOfMoss says:
The imperfect perfection of these creative spaces made me smile!
1 year ago
HibouCards says:
Roald Dahl's is one of my favorite work space, that's my kind of messy refuge... my office definitely needs a cleaning!
1 year ago
modernrubbishsf says:
Woody Allen's was not expected. It's so victorian! I love the simple beauty of Jane Austen's small marble table and inkwell though I would never have something like that, I admire it. Love this article Etsy!
1 year ago
climbingvagabond says:
I'm sorely disappointed that Hunter S. Thompson's kitchen didn't make the list.
1 year ago
yimmekedesign says:
Wish I could put a picture with this post. My desk truly deserves to be with all the famous ones...what concerns the clutter that is. But it is the most wonderful place to be for me...!
1 year ago
mandymoomoo says:
Out of all os these mine is a cross between Jane Austen's and Tina Fey's. Living in a smaller home with two small kids and my husband I have a tiny roll top desk in my bedroom. Any project that won't fit in there is done on my farmhouse style dining room table - it just has to be picked up after each 2-4 hour session.
1 year ago
dancinglydenise says:
This is so neat! I just did a redo of my Black hole, uhm I mean ARTstudio. It was a total disaster! You can see the redo at www.dancinglydenise.typepad.com I am not sure how to post pictures up on Flickr but I will try! Thanks for sharing... I loved Woody Allen's but as you will see I am more like Tina Fey!
1 year ago
GoSho says:
to dancinglydenise, WOW what a difference a clean up makes. I get the same way very into what I'm doing and forget the mess however at the end of each day the materials are organized so when I wake up in the morning I look into the corner and can't wait to begin again. A somewhat clean workspace gives dignity and importance to your creativity. You deserve to create, treat the space as such. Your studio is the place where new dreams and ideas will be created. Respect it,it is an important and valid part of who you are and then watch how your creativity reaches new heights. All the best in your creations. Here's an idea, let's give validity and importance to our workspace and call them just that workspaces, studios, craft cave, etc. instead of bedrooms or dens. Our ideas and creations have transformed these spaces just like we all tranforms materials into new pieces.
1 year ago
InspireMeDesigns says:
LOL @ vintageEye!!!! Mine is always a mess!
1 year ago
ErikaPrice says:
OMG, wish mine was neat and tidy! I make a conscious effort to be organised, but my workspace definitely looks like Tina Fey's. If only I had room under my table.....!
1 year ago
stephskeepsakes says:
Nice article ! Thanks
1 year ago
anadrylnash says:
If a cluttered desk is that of a cluttered mind, of what, then, is an empty desk?" — Albert Einstein I take comfort in the fact that my clutter is creative.
1 year ago
TheCookieClutch says:
My oldest son recently got married and moved out so....I took over his room and now I am in love with my new space. There are little bits of every thing that I love strewn all over the room . Its heaven!
1 year ago
BlissandOtherStories says:
I have to jump on the Roald Dahl bandwagon. I guess I'm just a sucker for a comfy chair! I currently work in the dining room with all my supplies stuffed into a midcentury console. Not ideal, but at least I'm forced to clean up after myself!
1 year ago
angelaraciti says:
I LOVE this post! It's always great to see where creative people get inspired!
1 year ago
FarFlungCards says:
My work space is a teensy cabin in the mountains with a wood stove and no plumbing, but a great view and the perpetual sound of the wind. I love seeing the variety of ways people get inspired--no wonder we all create such different things! For myself, I love getting everything out and working amid a heap of materials, and then cleaning it all up when I'm done. Great post, and really fun to see.
1 year ago
menwy74 says:
My workspace right now consists of many dresser drawers, filled to the brim with yarn, and a side table where my current project resides, along with the variety of tools I need for the project of the day.
1 year ago
MelissaBeeArtDenver says:
My workspace/studio could use some cleaning!
1 year ago
LaComtesseDeTalaru says:
I house-share at the moment and have a beautiful large room in a 1900s Edwardian house near the sea. I have a bay window overlooking the garden. It's my bedroom and studio I suppose - most of my space is taken up with antique velvet jewelry boxes, boxes of ancient papers, fabrics, ephemera, nature finds. Then there are my jewelry supplies - a large wheelie with trays of gemstones and trinkets. Another large fishing tackle box with all the things for my resin pendants, a small cupboard with paints, glues and chemicals. Books and magazines, old prints, miscellaneous metal things are spread far and wide. Under the bed is another world entirely - cancasses, finished artworks, piles of decorative papers, packing boxes... I will move in with my boyfriend next month and we will be living in a small 1brm apartment across the road from the ocean. It's above an old shop and on the 2nd floor - like a little eagle's nest. We will have sea views from the bedroom on one side and views of our little township on the other. My crafting supplies will live in the drawers under our bed which I am buying specifically to store my things. But really, I don't and never have had a dedicated studio. I'm adept at being a mobile crafter and designer - seems to work quite well so far. I keep things in my car - right now the boot is full of jewelry display busts and a mannequin. I would love a space to park and spread out - maybe next year - when my plan to quit my day job is put into action.
1 year ago
acquiltfabric says:
Beautiful and interesting post.
1 year ago
vintagemama1973 says:
Oh how i long for a good work space! One day i hope for mine to be filled with lots of colors, textiles and my favorite vintage knicknacks-and of course a humongous inspiration board...sigh:)
1 year ago
TandJsoaps says:
Ohhh I love this! I would love to see more!
1 year ago
QuietRainz says:
Love messy work spaces!
1 year ago
oddballartco says:
I finally last week set out to clean my studio, I LOVE my studio it is painted HOT pink to match me, if you knew me you would know that I am always in pink and it gives me the perfect setting to find my inspiration, they say that the color pink brings out the creativity in people, well, that explains alot! lol My studio up until last week was a HUGE mess, nothing was organized and it was every where and I mean everywhere so it is quite the relief to find out that Im not the only creative mind that finds it hard to keep things clean. After investing 3 whole days into cleaning this baby right out and organizing it better then its ever been organized before, I got to say, I am VERY happy in deed with the results and am making a very strong effort to keep it this way, although it keeps ending up a mess as I work, every night before I leave I pick up my mess so that I can make a new one tomorrow! Such great stories above mine, thank you to all that have shared.
1 year ago
virginiawyoming says:
It's a perennial activity - organizing the workplace and a fine line between chaos and the things I need around me to work. I loved seeing these famous workplaces.
1 year ago
droppingnames says:
My space is not near as interesting. I do remember the days I would sew sitting on the edge of my chair, my 2 year old standing on the chair behind me, reaching over my shoulder, trying to touch the buttons on the sewing machine. He added so much fun to crafting. Now he's 14, comes to my chair to give me a quick kiss, ask for a ride/money and play with my magnetic pin cushion.
1 year ago
Countrymouse923 says:
Love Milton Glaser's work place...artistic yet neat!
1 year ago
DaisiesforDesi says:
I like Woody allen's work space, clean, light, airy, with simple yet beautiful decor. Basically it's everything my work space ISN"T! But Can you blame me? I have 3 boys so my "work space" is also the TV room, piano room, home office, play area, laundry room, games room and library!
1 year ago
DaisiesforDesi says:
I like Woody allen's work space, clean, light, airy, with simple yet beautiful decor. Basically it's everything my work space ISN"T! But Can you blame me? I have 3 boys so my "work space" is also the TV room, piano room, home office, play area, laundry room, games room and library!
1 year ago
Auntannenmoyock says:
I love this post. I love organization and it seems that every time I become totally engrossed in a project - out goes the organization. I keep pulling out fabric and ribbons and trims and visualizing what I want to do next and before you know it - total chaos until I can't stand it any longer and then I make a huge mess getting organized again! Vicious circle!!! But I love it!!!!
1 year ago
TheWovenSpoke says:
I need to have the weather warm up as my workspace is my front porch which is pretty much open to the elements and is the only real place I can make such a big mess! Winter kinda kills my creatiity. Nic article btw.
1 year ago
chaps676 says:
So many of you sound like you have incredible work spaces — even if they're slightly messy (trust me, my desk would look appropriate in a frat house half the time). I really encourage all of you to upload images of your work space to the Flickr pool linked at the end of the blog post. We'd love to see where you work!
1 year ago
chulaart says:
My goal is always "get organized" but it seems to always be a goal and never a reality:(
1 year ago
ArtsyTartsyJewels says:
I love how Jane Austen's writing desk is simple and facing out towards a sunny window. Perfect for daydreaming up great stories! However, I think my space is more like Tina Fey's. :(
1 year ago
sietinggough says:
I wonder what it says of a person when their workspace is their entire house. I have an adorable that I created by tearing apart a tiny little second bathroom. The toilet however hasn't come out so... my desk is in the living room (covered) and my tools and current projects are on my bedroom dresser, where I throw them at night so I can lay down on my bed to finally sleep. At least I get a lot done, no matter what space I am using and that's what counts.
1 year ago