Andrew Orr’s Evolving Home Workspace: A Year in Review
As 2025 drew to a close, my home workspace stood as a testament to the dynamic nature of remote work—a harmonious blend of productivity and personal comfort. Over the past year, this space has not only served as my writing station but also adapted to accommodate the presence of my feline companion, Ninja.
Personal Branding and Journaling Evolution
This year marked the inception of 0440-industries, a personal brand that encapsulates my affinity for the Borg’s efficiency and the whimsical essence of Alice in Wonderland. This fusion reflects my approach to both work and creativity.
My journaling practice, initiated in 2013 with Apple Notes, has undergone significant transformation. Transitioning through various apps, I’ve found a home in Apple Journal, appreciating its seamless integration of text, multimedia, and health insights. In 2025, my journaling evolved from end-of-day summaries to capturing spontaneous moments—be it a culinary experiment, a fleeting thought, or a creative spark. This shift has turned my journal into a personal dialogue across time, fostering a sense of digital continuity.
Workspace Dynamics
Navigating the overlap between professional and personal spaces has been a journey. My primary workstation—a sturdy wooden desk in the bedroom—serves as the hub for writing and creative endeavors. Adjacent to it, a pre-installed shelf doubles as a standing desk, offering flexibility and promoting movement throughout the day. Afternoons often find me on the couch, transforming it into a casual workspace that balances comfort with productivity.
Minimalist Aesthetics with Purposeful Additions
While I lean towards a minimalist aesthetic, each item in my workspace serves a distinct purpose. A bottle of rubbing alcohol stands ready for device maintenance, and a repurposed wine bottle now functions as a chic water container. An art toolbox, filled with pens and sketching tools, facilitates my habit of sending handwritten notes and drawings to my niece and nephew, adding a personal touch to our correspondence.
Technological Integration
The technological landscape of my workspace is anchored by the iPhone Air and iPad Pro, both central to my daily tasks. The MacBook Air remains a reliable backup, ensuring continuity in my workflow. Audio experiences are enhanced by the AirPods Pro 3, which seamlessly switch between devices, providing an uninterrupted auditory environment. Background Sounds, particularly 1970s lounge music accessed via Control Center, have become a staple during writing sessions, creating an ambiance conducive to focus and creativity.
Feline Co-Worker: Ninja
Sharing my workspace with Ninja, my resident panther-like cat, adds a layer of companionship and occasional distraction. The cat bed beneath my desk offers him a cozy retreat, though he often prefers to observe from a distance, embodying the independent spirit typical of his kind.
Reflections on Remote Work
As I reflect on another year with AppleInsider, I’m grateful for the opportunity to work from home, a setup that offers both comfort and flexibility. This arrangement, however, blurs the lines between living and working spaces, prompting introspection on whether I’m residing in a workspace or working in a living space. This paradox underscores the evolving nature of remote work and the continuous adaptation it requires.
