I happened on this small free standing writing space in ivillage. A friend of mine has something similar for her metalsmithing shop. She started with a prefab storage shed, such as the ones you find at the local big box hardware stores and then paid a contractor to finish the inside with drywall and lay in a hardwood floor. It has the same small porch where she has a chair, a few catus plants and a string of chile pepper lights that illuminate the eves in the evening. A small a/c unit keeps the place cool and she had an electric line run to it from her home. It is quite spaceous and charming.

This backyard turquoise painted writing space has everything that a writer could need to work. A cozy desk, a comfortable chair and space for all the research materials you would need. Many famous authors choose to build small writing huts for their work, including authors like Mark Twain, Neil Gaiman and others. The fact that you need to walk that couple of yards into your backyard seems to help their minds switch into work mode and the isolation you gain from distractions can be beneficial.

Would you like this writing space for Christmas? I think that I would.

A writer of steampunk novels, I am naturally drawn to writing spaces that evoke the feeling of the 19th century. Here, this English cottage styled office picks up that century’s stamp with the nature-inspired wallpaper, the antique clock, spindle-back chair, and distressed pine chest are juxtaposed with a mid-century brushed-steel desk. The greys, ecru and red highlights make the room shine and the weathered finishes pull the look together and are what makes this writing space work.

This writing space is from “Desk Set” of This Old House Magazine, issue April 2006

When you are tending to children, there is nothing like a writing space off the kitchen. It is at the center of the house where everything is happening. That makes the kitchen a great place to center your small TV, the laptop and having a handy charging station for your cel phone. It is a place where you can monitor your children’s homework while you make sure the recipes are getting done. Once the kids are tucked into bed, it is also a nice place to find some quiet time to work on your latest novel.

I love the built-in nature of this desk and cabinet system. Everything is in one place where you need it. About the only thing that I don’t like is the tall chair. It doesn’t look comfortable and is the wrong height for writing. Otherwise, I feel that there is much to inspire us when creating our own writing spaces.

The writing space was taken from This Old House Magazine, the Desk Set, April 2006

There is much to love about this open and cheerful writing space. The golden walls contrast the white built-in shelving and desk to create a cozy, yet open feel. There is plenty of room for your books, art and a couple of friends. The art deco style windows bring in lots of light in a stylish manner that sets the mood for the room. The old-fashioned Persian rug softens the hardwood flooring. About the only thing that I don’t like about the room are the chairs. I’d prefer a comfortable leather roller chair to work in. All in all, there is plenty of inspiration to this home office.

Image is from This Old House Magazine, Desk Set, April 2006.

Having a view to inspire you as a writer is one of the more sought after aspects of a home office. This cozy writing space is in the middle of a Portland forest. The office is sparse with a pine desk and alder floors just waiting to hold your laptop or tablet as you create your masterpiece. The large casement window draws you to the forest outside while the rich red walls and wooden built-in shelves surround you like a warm blanket. It is the perfect place to relax and let your words flow.