This educational video was created by Norman Pirollo from WoodSkills. With over two decades of woodworking experience, Norman shares how thoughtful workshop design can improve efficiency, comfort, and overall enjoyment.
Whether you’re outfitting a garage or a dedicated studio, the layout decisions you make early on will influence your workflow for years to come. Norman’s insights offer a practical foundation for setting up a woodworking shop that works with you—not against you.
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Making Space Work for You
Norman’s workshop has been refined over nearly twenty years, and one of his most important tips is to prioritize open space around work areas. This doesn’t mean having a large shop—it means keeping key zones free of clutter and movement-restricting obstacles.
Instead of pushing benches up against walls, Norman recommends floating them toward the center of the room when possible. This allows access from all sides, improves visibility, and prevents tools from piling up on unused surfaces.
Strategic Workbench Placement
Norman’s upper-level workspace includes four hand tool benches arranged to support solo or paired use. By placing them with enough room to move freely on all sides, he encourages both comfort and collaboration.
Each bench is mirrored in function—one side may have a face vise, the other an end vise—so two people can use the same bench without compromise. This symmetry supports different workflows while keeping tools within reach.
Machinery Zones and Efficiency
Large machines like table saws, jointers, and planers are placed in central zones where they can be accessed from multiple angles. This layout is ideal for breaking down sheet goods or maneuvering large stock.
In contrast, smaller tools like drill presses and band saws are positioned in corners. This makes use of otherwise underutilized areas and keeps the main floor clear for bigger operations.
Norman also emphasizes the value of having an outfeed table behind the table saw. This prevents workpieces from falling or binding during cuts and adds to the usable workspace when not in active use.
Lighting for Focus and Safety
Proper lighting is one of the most overlooked parts of workshop planning. Norman prefers ambient lighting installed in ceiling-mounted banks. This approach spreads light evenly across the workspace, reducing shadows and eye strain.
LED lighting is the preferred solution, offering brighter output with better energy efficiency. These fixtures also produce less heat, which helps keep the shop comfortable during long sessions.
In key areas where fine detail work is performed, Norman adds task lighting to further improve clarity. Good lighting not only improves accuracy—it also makes the shop safer to navigate and use.
Storage That Stays Out of the Way
Smart storage keeps tools accessible without interrupting workflow. Norman mounts wall cabinets above eye level in areas not used for movement or cutting. These cabinets store frequently used items without encroaching on work zones.
Rolling carts and mobile bases are also featured throughout his shop. These can move between machines or benches, keeping essential items close by and reducing back-and-forth walking.
Customizing your storage to fit your tool collection is another of Norman’s key points. If everything has a designated home, cleanup becomes faster and tools are easier to find.
Dividing the Space for Specialized Work
Norman’s workshop is divided into two levels: one for rough processing and one for hand tool work. This separation not only improves efficiency—it helps reduce dust in fine-finish areas.
The lower level houses machines for planing, jointing, and ripping, while the upper level remains focused on hand tools, bench work, and finishing tasks. This division also helps manage noise and dust in a more controlled way.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Comfort is another central element of Norman’s layout strategy. Bench height is customized to reduce strain on the back and shoulders, allowing for longer and more productive sessions.
Tools are stored at reachable heights, and clear walking paths reduce the risk of tripping or fatigue. He also suggests paying attention to flooring materials—anti-fatigue mats can make a big difference when standing for long periods.
Cleanliness matters too. A tidy workspace not only feels more inviting, but it also helps keep the mind clear and focused. Regular cleanups and putting tools back in place become second nature with a good layout.
Final Thoughts on Smart Shop Design
A well-designed workshop doesn’t require a massive budget—just thoughtful planning. Norman Pirollo’s experience shows how intentional choices can lead to better work, fewer frustrations, and a more enjoyable woodworking routine.
His layout encourages fluid movement, tool access, and visual clarity—all without sacrificing space or over-complicating the setup. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to optimize your current space, these tips offer a practical starting point.
Support Norman by visiting his website: https://www.woodskills.com/