Green Oak Writer’s Studio Is the Perfect Small Space For Meditation & Inspiration

Located in the hills behind <a href="http://inhabitat.com/category/los-angeles">Los Angeles’</a> Griffith Park, the Green Oak Writer's Studio is the perfect spot for solitude, meditation and getting away so that one can concentrate. Efficiently designed, the compact 200 sq ft retreat packs in a lot of functionality while still remaining simply furnished so as not to distract. Designed by John Bertram of <a href="http://bertramarchitects.com/">Bertram Architects</a> in collaboration with Eliot Mitchell, the writer's studio speaks to small space living and is surrounded by a beautiful <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/drought-tolerant-landscape">drought-tolerant landscape</a> that provides oodles of inspiration.

Inspiration for the home office came from the "Russian word пустынь or poustinia (the word literally means desert): a small simply furnished and preferably remote cabin to which a monk would retreat to fast and pray in solitude and silence."

The writer's studio is located on a steep hillside behind the owner's home and accessed via a winding bluestone stairway surrounded by agave, yucca, cactus and other drought-resistant plants.

Partially set into the hillside and partially cantilevered out over the hill, the building is a careful balancing act between grounded practicality and inspiration taking flight.

The exterior is covered in IPE wood, which will naturally gray over time and requires little maintenance.

Inside, handcrafted furnishings are built into the studio to make the most of the small space, fitting in a amply-sized desk, shelving, a bed and bathroom.

A single bed serves as extra guest space or is perfect for a nap during a writing session.

Built in desk and cabinetry from teak wood.

The built in furniture maximize the space's efficiency.

A brightly orange colored bathroom is sure to revive anyone.

An outdoor shower takes advantage of the SoCal climate and leaves space inside free for other uses.

A large corner window is set back from the exterior to create a large overhang, perfect for letting in daylight without letting in a glare onto the desk.

The window provides spectacular views out over the hills and on a clear day out to the Pacific Ocean, which is perfect for any writer who needs a bit of inspiration.

Green Oak Writer's Studio began in 2008 and was completed in 2009.