Reply by ralbuck

Having been in on the building etc. of 3 different shops, here is my take on things.

The better insulation that you can put in is the best in the long run. Even foam under the siding and a good vapor barrier all help with the sound deadening too.
Put the electrical in the walls with MANY accessible junctions. Figure what you need for electrical then AT MINIMUM—DOUBLE IT! External wiring is a tremendous DUST COLLECTOR! Make sure you have some 220 volt outlets also. Again at least twice what you think that you need now. An extra $3-400 now can save a few GRAND; 3-4 years from now.

Another thing about the electrical outlets; put some switched ones in the ceiling—makes light location changes very easy. I first put outlets in the ceiling 30+ years ago and found it an excellent way to facilitate changes in many things; especially lighting.

Evergreen trees between the neighbor and you are also a good sound barrier.

-- Wood rescue is good for the environment and me! just rjR