terra

This is so important, something everyone should know because your happiness, and the happiness of others depends on it. Here it is – everyone is different. Everyone has a place and space and situation that they are more comfortable in than you. Of course we share interests, and we tend to hang out with people who do like the same things, because it’s the best when everyone is enjoying as much as the next. The part that always blows my mind is terra. I was talking with a friend so many years ago about why I felt best when I was near those hot rolling hills dotted with oak trees and she was happiest in the depths of the redwoods. She told me that everyone had their “terra”. Some of you are most at peace in Big Sur, I prefer the heat and hills of Calistoga. Some are energized by the ocean, some prefer a quiet garden. Some need open spaces, some love the hustle of the city.

 

Interior terra is just as important:

Do you like a space filled with objects to stimulate or would you prefer an uncluttered space to rest your mind?

Symmetric or asymmetric?

Bright colors or white and muted tones?

Soft curves or right angles?

Dark and cozy or light and airy?

Shiny or matte?

Bold pattern or texture?

Slick or rustic?

Casual or formal?

Large groups or a couple of friends?

Are you a little bit country or you a little bit rock and roll?
You get where I am going.

Most of us are some of these at one time or another, it’s not all or nothing, black or white. There is an ebb and flow to the simplest things that one likes but there is always that space you feel best in. Some feel this pull much more than others. I don’t mind that I am one that feels so strongly, because it is exhilarating to have so much passion for simple things, but it sometimes becomes a problem. I “tolerate” places that don’t feel good to me, but life is short, I would much rather be in surroundings that make me happiest. Everyone should be where they feel best as often as possible. These are not convictions, these are feelings.

These feelings are crucial to the design process. You know that space you walk into, and instantly feel good? It might be a room in a friends house, a restaurant, a museum or even a store. Pay attention to that. You want to know what the elements are that feel right to you. I can design a room for you that is beautiful to a lot of your friends, but you need to help me know what is best for you. Life is short, why not make your space the way that makes you happy?

~ Scarlett

 

PS I really do want to know your answers to these questions, elaborate for me!