After moving into a townhome near downtown Austin, Texas, Larry Hayden, a computer-security professional, decided to dedicate a room to his off-hours passion: photography. The resulting third-floor studio is an effortlessly cool creative sanctuary with a subtle midcentury vibe.

A sleek white countertop, propped up by two aluminum poles on one side, serves as Hayden’s computer desk. Above and below, a combination of open and closed storage keeps photo equipment, books, and electronics organized. The overall neutral palette contrasts beautifully with bits of color and texture, such as cabinets fronted with aluminum-framed satin glass and striking high-gloss doors in buttery yellow and slate blue.