Advice on how set up indoor space
 

I have about 40 square feet by a large east-facing window. I'd like to set this up as an indoor growing space, hopefully on a minimalist budget. Do you have any advice on how best to do this? I can control temperature with a thermostat (the space has HVAC).

a long folding table...four tier wooden steps on top of it and hooks 12 inches away from the window at 6 inches apart...wire hangers from the dry ceaners
and Home Depot account...a pair of good plyers and a drill with diff sized screws

Sounds cheap and would get the job done!

two small electric fans on both sides oscillating at low mode

how important is the air movement?

air movement is very important! if you have stagnant air, its just not good, and sometimes bacteria and mold can get bad if you have high humidity w/o air flow.

i use a 48" metal rack i got from homedepot. i have lights, but it you put this in front of your window, it would be great. mine has 5 tiers, but i took one off.

i have this
Amazon.com: Whitmor 6070-267 Supreme 5-Tier Shelving Unit, Black: Home & Garden

Good advice! Thank you. I can open the window. Is it advisable to open the window occasionally to allow my orchids some fresh air?

if its not too cold..

Ah, good point! What's typically the lowest temp orchids can tolerate?