Taking one for the team… A couple of years ago, I had the opportunity to purchase a used pottery wheel from a friend. I jumped at the opportunity to throw pots at home. Little did I know that this new addition would result in the construction of a beautiful home studio and home office. When I brought my wheel home, I carved out a space in the garage and began potting there. Although this wasn’t an ideal situation, it certainly worked. It allowed me the flexibility to finish work that I had started in the community studio where I took classes. All was fine until my husband announced that the restoration of his beloved vintage Volkswagon bug was progressing and the newly refinished car would be arriving from the paint shop soon. Even though I was happy for him that his “project car” was progressing, I knew this meant the time for pottery would be short-lived. Clay dust and a new paint job are just not conducive. After researching several small studio options, I decided that with 3 teenagers (that would soon be headed to college), the cost of purchasing a studio for myself was more than we wanted to spend. I was resigned to the fact that I would just pull my wheel out onto the back patio when the weather was nice and pot there. My husband had a different idea. A couple of weeks later, my husband pulled into our driveway with huge windows and a door strapped to a truck. We were going to build a studio! Over the following couple of months, my studio was constructed. It is the perfect space for me. Together, we were able to create a beautiful retreat where I can work and play, conveniently located steps from our house. I am so thankful for this space. It has allowed me the opportunity, flexibility and inspiration to be creative. Even if you are not able to build a new studio, I hope you find a place where you can be inspired, be creative and most of all be happy! Everyone needs a space that makes them happy!
Projects
Office transformation…
A big shout out to my interior designer and personal stylist for making the Shookhill Secret workspace so incredibly beautiful! This office transformation is a game changer for us. What was a messy, cramped dumping ground has now become a sanctuary and beautiful place to work. When you have a clean organized space, getting to work just seems easier and more enjoyable. You spend less time searching for needed items and more time being productive. This was never more apparent than when I allowed a designer into my space. The image on the far left shows how desperately my little Harry Potter office under the stairs needed a makeover. I absolutely love the Serena & Lily wallpapered accent wall, refinished cabinet, upholstered chair and the Commodore navy paint. The new live edge piece of canary wood that we found at West Penn Hardwoods is absolutely stunning. You were absolutely right, this new floating desk is a perfect fit for my petite office space. It is so nice to have a lovely place to work. I enjoyed every step of this project and can’t wait to tackle another makeover project with you. I appreciate all of your finishing details like the Safavieh rug, elegant desk lamp, and woven organizer baskets. Of coarse, a fresh bouquet of hydrangeas for the “reveal” always makes everything nicer. You are a very talented young woman..this office transformation is a 10!
