The "work space" is one of the great pillars of any good shop. Workspace can mean a lot of things, but in a new shop build, planning ample counter space will enhance your woodworking experience and ultimately generate better projects. Yes, counter space will yield higher quality projects. Have you ever tried to build something on a surface that was dirty, too small, rough or uneven? It sucks- let's leave it at that. Taking the time to build adequate, solid counters will give you the foundation for doing great work with the more exciting tools in your shop. Here are my quick points:

1. The size of your shop will dictate the amount of counter surface you can fit, over do it rather than under do it. 

2. If you are deciding between counters and standing shelving, go with counters. Shelving can be elevated and drawers can be lowered. Don't waste waist-high space on a storage shelving!

3. Counters abutting a wall are the most efficient use of space. Islands are not as efficient, but are extremely convenient. Not every shop can fit an island like the one I have pictured in their shop, but a 4x4 or even a 2x4 island can aid in those projects where you have to see all angles of a piece. They also come in handy for pressing wood where there is always clamp overhang. Islands allow me to press wood and clamp directly to the island surface from all angles without much hassle.