Unexpected

The hubby and I took part of our weekend to visit some Parade of Homes residences and see what was new and special. However, I am very sad to report, that based on the homes we visited (and I will admit we only made it to ten or so) I was not overly impressed. Yes, they were nice houses. Yes, they had wide plank wood floors, granite counter tops, and stainless steel appliances. But to me that does not make a beautiful home. I recognize that some of the residences featured on a POH are built as models and do not have a family who put their own personal stamp on the layout, features, and furnishings. I do not see this as a reason to be bland and boring though! With the exception of one home, every house we toured was just nice. Not a single feature, built-in, bump-out, or architectural detail that really made me pause and admire it. I felt as if the houses had a check list of what was supposed to make them a feature home but that in the end they all felt flat, seemed spacious but empty of character and pretty much soul-less if I can be that harsh. Please do not misunderstand me, as to think that I did not enjoy our tours or that you should not tour homes as well if you are so inclined. This is just my personal rant to urge homeowners and builders to pause and reflect on opportunities to make a statement in the architecture or layout of their homes. Chances to step out of the  accepted granite and stainless box and do something that will say 'Here I am! This is me!' 


And so as I wrap up this rant, I will share some pictures with you of something (deceivingly) far simpler than layout or architecture and that is color. Moments of unexpected color or unexpected placement of color. Enjoy the pause and the 'hmmmm' as you step out of the box of convention.