Click on PDF file to the right to view the Hobby Center diagram
To be functional, a hobby center/studio must offer work space and provide for organization and storage. But to be truly inspiring, the room should also reflect your personality, stimulate your creativity and beckon you to spend your leisure time there.
If your hobby is artful (and most are), you can help to achieve this goal by planning for ample display space. Showcasing your projects encourages further creativity and productivity. In addition, displaying collections — even if they’re not related to your hobby — adds atmosphere and makes the room your own. As you dream of your ideal hobby room, imagine how you might include some of these necessities and amenities:
Furniture — Whether you’re using existing pieces or adding custom built-ins, choose bookcases, dressers, cabinets and other storage systems that organize hobby tools, supplies and equipment (see Web Extras, “Hidden Potential”). Include a table or counters designed to fit your height. Add an island made of manufactured base cabinets or even a mechanic’s tool chest with drawers for storing tools and supplies (see “Rolling Tool Chests”). If possible, designate a file cabinet for hobby-related patterns, plans, instructions, ideas, etc.
A/V and Power — Don’t forget mood music: Adding a radio or CD player lets you choose the right tunes for inspiration, relaxation or recharging your energy. You may want to forgo a TV if you find it distracting, though it can allow you to watch instructional videos or inspiring how-to programs.
Storage — Because hobby materials, art supplies and even tools are visually interesting and inspiring, storage can double as display space. Depending on your preferences, incorporate built-in wall units and/or furniture to either hide or show off your stash. Carefully evaluate the closet’s potential for a custom storage system, and select containers that fit your gear (large or small, drawers or shelves, hooks and bars, bins). By removing the closet doors and adding lighting, you can transform the closet into a built-in nook for a desk or workstation.
Lighting — Natural light (from windows and skylights) is best for most hobby-related activities. For evening work, provide good general (ambient) lighting as well as direct (task) lighting. Even on sunny days, you’ll probably need task lighting (provided by lamps, spotlights and pendants) in some work areas. To power additional lamps, glue guns, Dremel tools, a sewing machine and iron, or other electric hobby gear, consider adding outlets on the wall above countertops or work areas. As an alternative, you can install a wall-mount power strip or use plug-in surge protectors.
Flooring and walls — When choosing colors and finishes, consider aesthetics as well as functionality. For flooring, a hard surface with minimal pattern offers easy cleanup and makes it easier to find dropped pins, screws, beads, small model parts, etc. Use wall surfaces to your advantage: Apply chalkboard paint, magnetic paint or dry-erase paint so you can easily post notes and ideas. For textile projects, a large flannel panel on the wall can hold patches of fabric (without pins), allowing you to step away for a broader view.