Author Martin Amis smartly put his writing room in his garden...away from the house, where he can still hear his kids play, and where he's allowed to smoke.

Currently I’m trapped in an over-priced apartment in downtown Austin, but that will change beginning January 1, 2010 (when my lease expires).

Assuming I’m still living in Austin, Texas, I look forward to finding an affordable duplex…or something with lots of windows and less people.  Living here, I’m reminded why I’ve always hated apartment complexes: people and their horrible habits. People that don’t pick up after their dog. People not correctly disposing of their garbage. People being loud. People, people, people.

A recent article in Lifehacker reminded me that there are more fortunate souls in the world working in much more calm and friendly environments.

I’m picturing – and looking for – a garage apartment that overlooks green spaces. Perhaps something like author Martin Amis’ workspace…but with two rooms.

Check out this article from LifeHacker which shows the work spaces of some very industrious and intelligent people.