It seems as though a long-time dream of mine may actually come true! Maybe dream is not quite the right word - too emotional. But idea seems too dispassionate. Let’s say that I’ve flirted with the dream of having a large, light-filled, art studio space - a space that is intentionally designed to be an art studio.
I’ve envisioned a spacious work area, with skylights, a work station for my electric saws and tools, a large work table that I can easily access from all sides, perhaps a design station, an office area, a sitting area, a bathroom and small kitchen - even a balcony outside of french doors, that looks out to the woods and leads to stairs for an exterior entrance/exit.
And space - lots of space.
Ahh… sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? I’ve only flirted with the idea for the last 15 or so years, but I never thought that it would actually happen. You see, I’ve had a nice dedicated area in which to work. I even had the foresight to put in a sink in that area when we built the house almost 20 years ago. It’s not a real big area, but it has served me well.
After the kids were grown and I was through homeschooling, I slowly expanded into what used to be their area and put up shelves for my marble. Then I put some shelves up for more materials and saws and such in an unused bedroom and started calling it the warehouse.
I have been mostly very grateful to have the space I have had, and to have a dedicated work area. But none of it was ever designed to be studio space. And I’ve never complained because I was able to work and was pretty happy to have the set-up that I have had. But to have a real studio!!! That’s pretty exciting!
Instead of downsizing, which would be a practical thing to do, we (my husband and I) are currently leaning toward staying in this big house for awhile. We love the woods, and I look forward to having my grandkids spend a lot of good times here.
So we’re considering some improvements, not the least of which is converting the huge walk-in attic and space above our 4-car garage into a lovely art studio with office and small living area, including kitchenette and bath - basically a studio wing.
We are just in the planning stages with an architect, but it’s looking very promising!