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How Refreshing My Workspace Boosted My Productivity
Why Your Work Environment Matters as a Web Designer
A well-organized and inspiring workspace makes all the difference in how you feel about your work. After years of working in less-than-ideal setups—from a kitchen table to a temporary office space—I finally created an office supporting my workflow and creativity. This week, I focused on further refining my space, making small but meaningful updates to enhance comfort, organization, and motivation.
What Worked Well
Having a clean and organized workspace makes me love walking into my office daily. It’s no longer just a place to work; it’s a space that reflects my personality and fosters creativity. One of the biggest game-changers was going with a bold wall color that energizes me. While some people thrive in an all-white minimalistic setting, I’ve found that surrounding myself with color makes me feel more engaged and inspired.
Challenges: Taking Time to Get It Right
Refreshing my workspace wasn’t an overnight project—it took years. My home is nearly 100 years old and required repairs before I could truly invest in my office setup. Once that was taken care of, I spent months curating the perfect setup. There’s no rush to get things exactly how you want them. Creating a space supporting your workflow is a process, not a one-time task.
A Surprising Benefit: Letting Go of Clutter
One of the most unexpected lessons I learned from this process was how little I actually needed in my workspace. When I temporarily rented an office while my basement was under construction, I realized I could work efficiently without piles of paper or excess supplies. That experience reshaped how I set up my permanent office—I prioritized organization, storage, and keeping only what I truly needed within arm’s reach.
Tools & Resources That Helped
- Gallery Wall Planning – Using craft paper to map out my gallery wall before hanging anything saved time and frustration.
- Smart Storage Solutions – Investing in simple storage solutions helped me maintain a clutter-free space.
Lessons Learned
This week, I tackled some final organizing tasks that had been on my to-do list for too long. The finishing touch was purchasing a bookshelf for my business and art books—a small but satisfying addition that made my office feel complete.
Moving Forward
I wouldn’t change a thing about this process. Everything came together as it was meant to be. Maintaining my space is about small, regular efforts rather than big, overwhelming projects.
How You Can Implement This Habit
To refresh your workspace, start with one small task at a time. Declutter a single drawer, reorganize a shelf, or update your lighting. Most importantly, consider the layout of your space—don’t place your desk with your back to the door. An open and intentional workspace can make all the difference in your daily workflow.
about the author
Cami MacNamara is a web designer and owner of WebCami LLC, a Seattle-based agency since 2002. She created Web Designer Habits to help web designers build smarter systems, stay productive, and run a business that works for them.