How Full Is Too Full?
Squeezing more space out of a small studio can be tricky. In my case, I’m considering adding two more shelves to the synth wall. On paper, that would leave me with four or five empty shelves at most—which I’m saying right now is more than enough. Of course, I already know that one or two of those shelves are likely spoken for.
The same goes for the rack. I may have two remaining 1U spaces—one in each rack near the power conditioners—and even those are starting to feel less “available” than they look. This might sound like I’m just thinking about buying more gear for the sake of buying gear, but that’s not really what’s happening.
Coming Back to the Original Plan
When I first started redesigning my studio, I had a clear idea of what I wanted it to be. As the build progressed, things naturally expanded. Some of that expansion wasn’t planned—but I don’t regret it. The additions improved what the studio is capable of, and I’m genuinely happy with how things turned out.
That said, expanding in that direction meant postponing a few items that were part of my original vision. Now that 2026 has arrived, it feels like the right time to revisit those ideas and finally bring in the pieces that were left out along the way.
Looking back, one way I could have saved space would have been to use more compact solutions—like 500-series modules instead of full-size 19-inch rack gear. At the time, though, that route wasn’t really in my budget, and it didn’t align with how I was thinking about the studio then.
How Packed Is Too Packed?
This got me thinking about how different people approach space in their studios.
If you’re working in a smaller room, are you already set—or do you still have your eye on one or two additions? And if you do, where do you plan on putting them?
I remember watching videos while preparing for this studio transformation and seeing home studios that were completely floor-to-ceiling with gear. Everything was operational. Some had multiple sub-mixers, walls of synths, and barely a chair or desk in sight. Compared to those spaces, my studio—already packed by most standards—looked almost empty.
It raises an interesting question: how much is too much?
At what point does a studio stop feeling inspiring and start feeling crowded? Do you prefer a more traditional setup with a desk and chair, or a standing, wall-to-wall environment where everything is within arm’s reach?
There’s no right answer—only what works for you.
Whether your studio is minimalist or packed from floor to ceiling, seated or standing, carefully curated or constantly evolving, I hope it continues to be a place where ideas flow easily and time disappears.
Happy creating.
