Inside Jess Weatherbed's Creative Workspace: A Blend of Tech and Personal Flair

Jess Weatherbed: A Peek into the Workspace of The Verge's Tech Journalist

Introducing Jess Weatherbed

Jess Weatherbed, a talented news writer for The Verge, has a unique background that sets her apart from many journalists. She initially ventured into the world of prosthetics and wig making before diving headfirst into technology. With over 16 years of experience using drawing tablets, Jess supports her creative hobbies that range from digital illustration to 3D sculpting. "I initially learned to build computers to support my nerdier gaming hobbies," she shares, highlighting her longstanding passion for gadgets and tech.

A Workspace with Character

Jess's workspace occupies what she describes as the "guest room" in her two-bedroom apartment. Although primarily a home office, it serves as a gaming den as well. Her setup was designed to create a balance between work and play in a cozy, inviting environment. "We wanted to keep our work areas completely separate to avoid distracting each other," she explains.

Color Choices and Ambiance

Surprisingly, Jess's favorite color is orange, but her workspace is awash in green. "I wanted to create a gloomy, gothic space," she notes, emphasizing that green is known to have calming effects — something she appreciates as a chronic migraine sufferer. This thoughtful choice reflects her personality and desire for a peaceful work atmosphere.

Highlighting the Technology Behind Creativity

Jess's desk features a Friska Stockholm corner desk, an electric sit-stand option that she hoped would encourage movement. The desk accommodates two main monitors: an MSI Optix G271 and an Acer Predator XB271HK 4K. Her powerful PC is equipped with an Intel i9-11900K, MSI RTX 3080 GPU, and 64GB DDR4 RAM, perfect for both gaming and creative pursuits.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Comfort is paramount in Jess's workspace. She utilizes a Razer Enki Pro chair, which has endured the test of time and various gaming events. Though she customizes it with stickers to hide scratches, she expresses satisfaction with its overall performance.

Creative Tools and Accessories

Her keyboard is a Razer Huntsman V2, while she prefers a Razer Basilisk V3 mouse for its ergonomic design. Additionally, technology in her workspace is enhanced with a Logitech Brio webcam and various lighting solutions to keep her well-lit during online meetings and gaming sessions. She also keeps track of her devices with a 3-in-1 Belkin charger and an Amazon Echo Dot, streamlining her setup.

Supporting Local Artists

Jess’s workspace showcases several unique figures and artwork sourced from local creators and events like London’s MCM Comic Con. She prides herself on supporting small artists, demonstrating her commitment to creative communities.

Personal Touches

Decorative elements, such as her new shelf and assorted figurines, bring personality to her workspace. The crow lamp named "Dick" and the crocheted Gengar plushie speak to her interests and whimsical side. Her collection of Dungeons & Dragons materials is also a significant aspect of her workspace, reflecting her love for tabletop role-playing games.

Final Thoughts

Jess Weatherbed’s workspace is not just a place of productivity; it’s a reflection of her identity and passions as a tech journalist. From the calming greens to her thoughtful tech choices, Jess has curated an inviting and functional environment that inspires her creativity and connects her with her interests.

For more insights into creative workspaces, check out our other articles on home office setups and ergonomic design.