How To Create a Killer Art Studio

If you're an artist and are in the happy position of creating a brand new art studio, you want to make sure to include everything you need in your design. Depending on your experience and personality, you may find this task to be a bit daunting — you may not have even thought about planning it out ahead of time, but it's definitely recommended. Many artists work in multiple media, so it's important to accommodate all the materials, equipment, and tools you will need when inspiration strikes. Here are some ideas and tips to get your creative juices flowing and design the art studio of your dreams.

Work Space

No matter how small your studio may be, make sure you have ample workspace for the type of art you create. If you have a good amount of space to work with, include a flat-top or drafting table, floor easel, computer desk, and whatever other equipment you may need, such as a pottery wheel or woodworking bench. An ideal studio setup would include a utility sink to save your bathroom and kitchen sinks from messy cleanups and ample floor space for extra-large projects. If you regularly use power tools or other equipment, installing an electrical transfer switch in your existing panel would also be a great idea, so you can continue to work even in a power outage.

Lighting

Making sure you have the best lighting possible is perhaps the most important aspect of art studio design. Northern exposure is the best light for an art studio since it's the most constant and least harsh. That being said, if you're a painter working on a commission, you should ask what kind of lighting is in the space the painting will be hung and take that into account when choosing your colors and values. Having light-filtering shades over your windows is helpful in that regard. Once the sun goes down, you should use full-spectrum LED or fluorescent bulbs to light your space. Full-spectrum lighting approximates northern light without being too warm or too cool.

Flooring

If you're starting from scratch, choose the flooring that is most durable and easy to clean so you won't be worried about spills, splatters, scuffs, or scratches. Ceramic tile is probably the best all-around choice for an art studio because all you need to do is seal the grout and you're good to go. Vinyl or luxury vinyl plank is also a good choice, as most are waterproof, durable, and aren't easily stained. If your studio is going to be in a basement or garage with a concrete floor, make sure the floor is sealed or painted.

Organization

The key to a well-organized studio is finding the balance between having everything you need at your fingertips and keeping your supplies from taking over your space. Small, tiered carts on wheels can hold a surprising number of bottles, paints, brushes, and craft materials. Repurpose silverware caddies to hold brushes and tubes of paint and utilize glass jars, ceramic vessels, and baskets for other art materials. Flat-file drawer units (IKEA has some nice ones) are great for holding papers. Finally, include at least one area of shelving for your books and to give all those vessels and baskets a home.

Inspiration

Hang picture rails to display and protect finished and unfinished paintings, and create an inspiration board with cork or metal sheeting so you can keep photos, magazine clippings, quotes, or anything else to inspire your creativity. Your studio should be visually appealing to you and a comfortable space in which to work. Include a portable speaker so you can crank your favorite playlist while you're creating. A scented candle or aromatherapy diffuser is also a nice touch to set the right atmosphere and mood.

A dedicated art space is a dream for many artists wanting to work on their craft at home. Following these tips will help get you started designing a studio that will give you many hours of enjoyment and creativity.