The Minimalistic Office
Robert’s minimalistic officeAlthough working freelance means freedom from that vile cubicle, a proper workspace is still a necessity. But finding such a place can be a challenge, especially for someone starting out with limited funds.
In my case, I share a small apartment with two other people, which makes space even more scarce. I can’t afford to rent office space (though on some days, the nearby public library works well) so what is a freelancer to do?
The solution for me: commandeer the coffee table! It’s the most minimalistic, yet functional solution I could find.
Everything in it’s Right Place
My laptop sits on the far left side and acts as the nexus for this whole setup. In a horizontal row next to it are my key chain (with a 2 gigabyte USB drive hanging from it), cellphone and my transit pass holder, which doubles as a place to store business cards.
One nifty feature added to the coffee table office is a lazy-susan, which holds a small box of index cards for filing away little notes. Around it are other pieces of stationary that I can grab quickly by spinning.
For filing larger documents, there’s an accordion file on the floor. My notepads, writing utensils and camera are all in a nearby shoulder bag, since they’re also items I usually need when I’m working on-site.
Finally, to avoid clutter, there’s a nearby wastebasket to ensure scraps of paper and cans of caffeinated beverage don’t pile up.
The Disadvantages
Of course, this isn’t perfect. There’s no room for a printer or scanner, so I need to set up up a home network to access a shared all-in-one unit. Plus, my large filing cabinet is on the other side of the room, which sometimes makes me lazy to sort some of my documents properly.
The Advantages
Though, there are some distinct advantages to this minimal setup. Now that I’m used to working with it, I can tear down and pack it up in minutes and easily move elsewhere, like a Wi-Fi equipped coffee shop. There’s also less room for clutter to build up in the first place, unlike a larger desk which is easy to busy with papers and other junk.
But the biggest advantage is that my “office chair” is also my couch, which makes taking a siesta break that much easier. Gotta love the freelance lifestyle.
Obviously your mileage and needs will vary, but I’m finding that slimming down is helping keep the productivity levels up and my slacker tendencies down…until I decide it’s time for a nap.
Another disadvantage can be the ergonomics of working at a coffee table.
This is not likely to cause problems in the short term but long term can contribute to neck strain or worse.
I found some guidelines for setting up an ergonomic workspace here – http://ergo.human.cornell.edu/ergoguide.html
Great post, Robert–I’ve used desktop and laptop configurations before on my desk. My quick comment is just a reminder about something I read on another blog: the key to good desk usage is to make sure the things you use are within reach and the things you don’t are “out of the way.” This’ll take some sit-down-and-think planning, but will reap huge dividends. My desk is strewn with things I don’t really need all the time, and it negatively impacts me.
i have hard time imagining me working in that setup. can you post a picture of you sitting and working. i mean you took a picture from the top and it doesn’t really give a sense of space/depth
Great post. I’m in the process of “slimming down” actually. I have a desktop, and then a small table next to it as “extra space” which always ends up being food wrappers, empty cans/bottles of soda, and so on. So, slimming down to something similar to your setup is ideal for me.
I acknowledge that it’s certainly not ergonomic (though I’ll also admit that I’m not a big believer in the concept – every piece of ergonomically correct furniture or equipment I’ve used has been a painful experience.) I’m currently sitting cross-legged on the couch as I write this – the point really was about making the most out of what’s available, and in my tiny and shared pad, this is it.
I agree with Scott. The ergonomics must be terrible. For a short time while I didn’t have a desk, I was working on a coffee table. Sitting on a the floor was actually the most comfortable option, but not all that good. Sitting on a chair was bad, having to lean over all the time. On a couch would be even worse I imagine. I think I’d have a sore back in 10 minutes. But if it works for you, good job. I do like the simplicity and mobility of it.
Love this post. Great job, once again, Robert. You have a focus and simplicity that makes us kindred souls.
@Leo, the funny thing is, it’s only recently that I’ve been trying to strip down my setups. I used to be very “bigger is better.” In fact, at one paper I interned at, I went so far as to annex the empty cubicle next to mine.
As for ergonomics, I’ll admit, it’s not a big concept for me. Most ergonomically correct furniture and equipment I’ve used has been painful (no offense to anyone it works for)
Anyway, my point was making the most of what’s available and for me, this is what I have to work with.
Hi Robert, please don’t interpret my comment about ergonomics as nit-picking!
It is something that has become a greater concern for me the more years I spend glued to the laptop, and I personally know of several people who have had issues with RSI, loss of eyesight, and back and neck strain most likely related to computer work.
I currently use a pc in my office/ bedroom but when I move into my new house (when I marry my fiance) I have my own office and I will be getting a lappie so then I can sit outside on the nice warm autumn/ spring days.
I’ve tried this before, but working with digital video, photography, etc. the peripherals quickly pile up–whether I’m using a desktop or laptop based workstation.
Great advice though for when I’m not tethered to scanner, printer, fax, DV deck, and multiple hard drives! I guess this will be a constant battle….
I’m sure you can find a neighbor who wants to sell – or check Craigslist.com – for an inexpensive desk! Bending over to work on the coffee table is very straining on the back! I know because I’ve done it before
Keeping your workspace very streamlined definitely helps with productivity…
I love the idea of filing notes on index cards.