Hearthspace is a Linux desktop where your windows can extend beyond the edges of your screen. You move around by panning and zooming, much like you would on a map.

You might keep a document next to your notes and a browser, then move to another part of the canvas for something else. When you come back, those windows are still where you left them.

Finding your windows #

Zoom out to see more at once, or use the canvas map to move to another area. You can also search for a window or switch with Alt+Tab. Both let you choose a window without changing the arrangement you made.

Some things are useful wherever you're working. Choose Change layout to attach a window, the dock, or desktop controls to an edge of the screen. They'll stay there as you move around the canvas.

Try it #

Hearthspace builds from source. Clone this repository and install the dependencies, then run this from the repository folder:

scripts/install-session install

Run it as your normal user; it'll ask for administrator access when needed. Once it's installed, save your work, log out, and select Hearthspace at the login screen. The installation guide also covers updates and removal.

To try it in a window inside your current desktop, follow the development setup. Some system controls are only available when you log into Hearthspace directly.

Once you're in:

Do this	With this
Open apps	Tap Super, or click Apps List.
Open a terminal	Super+Return.
Switch windows	Alt+Tab; add Shift to go backward.
Move around the canvas	Slide three fingers, or use Super+arrow keys.
Zoom	Pinch with three fingers, or use the map's zoom controls.
Change the layout	Choose Change layout in Canvas tools.

The first-session guide introduces the rest, including mouse and keyboard navigation.

Feedback and contributions #

If something doesn't work as you expect, open an issue. Include what you were trying to do and what happened, along with the app's name if one was involved.

For code, design, or documentation changes, see CONTRIBUTING.md. The documentation has more on using and developing Hearthspace.

License #

The code is licensed under Apache 2.0. The Hearthspace name and logo aren't covered by that license; don't use them to imply endorsement of a modified version, commercial product, or unrelated project without permission.