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How To Add Layers To Your Dwelling
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment can affect behavior. Before consulting privately, I received my MA in writing and ran a design boutique in Los Angeles.
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment... More »
Having moved nine times in nine years, my husband and I have become masters of settling in, fast. Not disregarding the wisdom that a dwelling should evolve, and that over time the many layers should reflect stages of experience, some of us don't have that kind of time. So far our longest sojourn in the same dwelling has been two years, and rather than being in a constant state of temporariness, we want to cultivate personality and layers of intimacy as we go along. To feel that we are LIVING in each place.
Though it's not the longstanding love affair with one place that we will undoubtedly find and burrow down into for years, following a few simple steps of creating layers within a dwelling can make home, well, sweet.
Though it's not the longstanding love affair with one place that we will undoubtedly find and burrow down into for years, following a few simple steps of creating layers within a dwelling can make home, well, sweet.
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BOOKS. Whether or not you love to read for hours on end, creating a cohesive library is one mark of a cultured home, and allows those within such a home to browse the private book collection, and to find interesting activity within the home. Bookshelves placed right, books stacked within them, good light, seating arranged thoughtfully and the setup competes with the oldest libraries on any established estate.
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| Even one simple wall covered with books and curiosities suggests a library. Simply add a couch or cluster of reading chairs and a good table for coffee and projects and good lighting. Any room can have a built-in intentional look. |
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COLLECTIONS. It need not be books. Though you might not want to drag an accumulation of stuff when you're in a more portable or downsized era of life, stick to the things that matter most and keep them around. Art. Cake stands. Vintage records and that record players you swiped from your dad.
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DINING. Create a wonderful place to enjoy a meal. Though it may mean an elaborate dining room, quality food can be enjoyed as abundantly in a simple breakfasting corner. Make the seating comfortable and keep the coffee close.
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KITCHEN. Though the space of your dwellings will likely vary, the kitchen is the place that will stay most constant, and your needs within it. Know what you love out on the counter, and know what you need to keep hidden. When you enter a new kitchen, you'll have a system to start from and the unfamiliar territory will become familiar quickly. Changes in layout and appliances can then be a fun and invigorating challenge, not something completely disarming.
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| WALLS. While determining how furniture can best fit and suit your new surroundings, art can be a point of inspiration. While some pieces will always translate from place to place (the flea market painting that always must go over the mantle, thank you very much), others can help you determine the shape that a room will take by looking at where it best belongs. |
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| The art can be simple and unique adornments that quickly bring in the familiarity and class of your previous dwellings. |
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WC SYSTEM. Knowing your organization regarding toiletries can save much time in determining systems in new places. Because so much time is spent in this room, having transferable systems can help you settle in and start living smoothly.
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LAUNDRY SYSTEM. Whether your laundry is located within or without of your dwelling, keep a system for laundry accumulation and supplies.
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PLANTS. Providing fresher air and a sense of freshness, houseplants can quickly add a visual interest and intimacy within your home.
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| Even if the only room you have for greenery is in a window box, the scent and view can add a lived-in feel. |
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| TOYS. Streamlined and organized toys can immediately fill out a designated room to create a comforting playroom.
**Think of it this way. Rather than adding layers to a single dwelling over years--decades!--you are adding layers to your life and your home along the way. Happy burrowing. |
Comments
Pat Lukes I'm so glad you pulled these together. Recently, I've been mindful to the textural elements that I place in my rooms to add interest and function.
3 years ago · Like
nicole Great ideas. The first library is stunning!
3 years ago · Like
Roberta Philbrick OMG, I can so relate to your moving 9 times in 9 years...my DH and I have moved two times in less than a year this past year...which in itself is tough...BUT in doing this we actually downsized from a 3,800 sq. ft. home to a 1,400 sq.ft. apartment and finally into our cute little "Love Shack" which is a 700 sq.ft. duplex...yikes :} Just added this ideabook to my blog sidebar: http://con-tain-it.typepad.com/ 
3 years ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Feb. 12, 2010.
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