How to Analyze the "Message" of Your Home
The "message" or the statement that a structure or home gives is a very subjective, broad topic and is influenced by many factors, including the personality and image of the owners.
Pragmatic style |
This report will touch on some examples of general messages and themes, give you an adjective-noun screening exercise, and finally ask you to state the message of your home.
You are the expert and biggest contributor to your home's message. Your values will be reflected in your home. If you do some introspection of what you stand for, you will find that many of the adjectives used to describe yourself can be applied to your home.
Read through the following three groups of nouns and adjectives aloud or by silently scanning each word, and try to be non-judgmental in your reading. Use a stream of consciousness approach, so that you let the words be simply registered but not thought about.
1. flexible, relaxed, active, fresh, upstanding, local setting, well-planned, unfettered, plain, welcoming, utilitarian, unoffensive, general, congruent
2. meticulous, diverse, vibrant, territorial, thoughtful, exclusive, stylish, sensible, modern, antique, collection, well-meaning, chic, classy
3. secure, secluded, active, vast, castle, open , unshakable, generous, centered, subdued, private, controlled, cautious, solid, peaceful, homestead, inspiring, wise, formidable, jagged, refuge, towering, shelter
4. hardworking, practical, random, simple, effective, rustic, worn, easy, no-frills, industrious, prairie, helpful, country, neutral, sprawling, random, spontaneous
After re-reading the above three word groups, choose one that appeals to you most. Then match Word Group 1 - 4 with the below themes to get a starting point for style determination and direction. Word Group 1 matches with A. Group 2 is B , 3 is C, and 4 is D.
Examples of Home Themes
A. Modest. A home or structure with a modest theme will be located in an unpretentious setting, such a middle class neighborhood or rural setting. The design itself will originally be unimposing and moderate in size, as will the surrounding landscape and environment. Many times the layout will feel somewhat utilitarian though cozy, in size of the home or structure as well as the use of space. A home with a modest theme may have a relaxed or even an unkempt feel which is good because visitors can at once feel at ease and at home. Tones and hues are mostly comfortable, uncluttered and straight-forward.
B. Sophisticated. An elegant feeling to a home usually is found in a prestigious neighborhood or on a secluded estate-- rich, subtle colors and lighting will reflect the occupants' class and style. This style is not constrained to be either large or small, but is more defined by its balance of architecture, tidy surroundings, and richer choice of building materials and colors which convey subtle complexity and elegance.
Strong, solid message |
C. Fortress. The planner of a home which has a fortress theme will be a very careful and thorough individual, prone to "overkill" which is a good thing considering the environment where these sturdy structures are found. Exposed to high winds, heavy snow or other natural phenomena, these structures need a solid foundation and logical planning to offer a secure abode in harsher elements. The fortress theme is inspiring and encourages guests to congregate and linger, to enjoy the beauty and security of the fortress theme. Therefore, it is no surprise that many lodges and resorts incorporate this style into their design, as they require more space and are prominent and expansive. Typically they will have a stout rustic flavor. Interior design options however, are not constrained to a certain style, because timbers do not cover the entire wall and ceiling. Faux painting, wall paper, modern art, and a wide range of colors can influence or accentuate your theme for spectacular results.
D. Pragmatic. A project or home with a pragmatic theme usually has to do with a ranch or country or farm home. These dwellings are built with industry in mind. Because practicality takes precedence over elegance, these simple designs have their own style. A pragmatic theme strictly adheres to a principle which guides everyone of us, regardless of background or occupation: "we do what works" or stated differently: "we take the path of least resistance". This is an honest and straightforward style, in which the reasoning of the builder can be easily retraced. Folks visiting this type of home may feel compelled to roll up their sleeves and "pitch in"!
All styles and themes are impossible to include because individual project styles will be as diverse as the occupants themselves. Hopefully this report has been fun, thought provoking and inspirational.
In closing, what is the "message" of your home?
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