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The ABM Studio styling room is a flexible space for organizing photography props, storing extra kitchen equipment and getting work done. Although it is called a styling room, it also serves as a meeting area and a quieter place for phone calls or focused tasks. Its mix of practical storage and shared workspace shows how one room can support several needs.
How the ABM Studio styling room is used
The room holds styling props used for recipe photography, along with kitchen gear that does not fit in the main kitchen. Keeping frequently used items together makes it easier to prepare a shoot without crowding the cooking area. For a similar setup, group props by type or use and leave commonly needed pieces within easy reach.
The space also accommodates meetings, phone conferences and individual work when privacy or quiet is important. A small table and chairs provide a place to sit, while the room’s storage keeps work materials close by. Because the room supports different activities, it is useful to keep a clear surface available between projects.
From a former bedroom to a shared studio space
The room was originally a bedroom and includes an unusual chimney that no longer connects to a working fireplace. The house’s earlier fireplace is gone, though a faux fireplace was added as a decorative feature. Details like this can reflect changes made to an older home over time.
One major renovation discovery was beneath the carpet: asbestos tiles, some cracked or damaged. They were professionally removed, and laminate hardwood flooring was installed. When renovating an older property, avoid disturbing materials that may contain asbestos; have them assessed and handled by qualified professionals.
The walls and ceiling were painted black, creating a dramatic look throughout the room. The dark finish gives the space a distinct atmosphere, while the replacement flooring provides a practical surface for a multipurpose work area.
Storage, seating and studio workflow
Custom shelves built by Josh organize the styling supplies, helping keep the room’s many small items in order. A table and four chairs sit in the center for people using the space. This combination of wall storage and shared seating makes it possible to move between preparation, conversation and desk-style work.
The styling room is directly above the kitchen, so supplies can be carried upstairs when needed for cooking or photography. Placing related spaces near each other can make a studio workflow more convenient and reduce the time spent searching for equipment.
At the far right of the image, an enclosure surrounds the stairwell as a safety barrier. The stairwell is currently white, and keeping it clean is a challenge. A colorful paint treatment has been considered, but any finish in a high-traffic area should also be chosen with maintenance and durability in mind.
A flexible room connected to the offices
The room connects directly to two office areas, making it part of a larger workspace. Although it began as a bedroom, it now offers extra storage and a quieter location for calls. The layout demonstrates how an underused room can be adapted to support both creative work and everyday office needs.
For a multipurpose room of your own, consider the activities it needs to support before choosing storage and furniture. Clear walkways, accessible shelves and a dedicated place to sit can help the room stay useful without feeling cluttered.
Written by Emma.
Room details: Table and chairs, rug, and a DIY light fixture.
