BUILDING BASE STRUCTURES—WHAT IF YOU HAD TO START OVER?
If everything’s shouting, nothing gets heard.
That’s spot on. I’d add that when you’re starting over, it’s worth mapping out not just the “hero” texture but also how each material interacts with light and air quality. For example, too much reclaimed wood can actually trap dust and mess with indoor air if you’re not sealing it right. I usually sketch out a materials palette and do a quick airflow check—sometimes that’s what tips the balance between cozy and chaotic. Color matching helps, but honestly, scale and finish matter more than people think. A rough beam can work if the rest is matte or low-sheen, but throw in glossy brick and it’s sensory overload.
Color matching helps, but honestly, scale and finish matter more than people think.
Totally agree on scale and finish—people get hung up on color swatches and forget that a chunky beam or a super shiny tile can throw the whole vibe off. I always do a “materials walk”—just lay out samples in the actual light, see how they play together. Once had a client who loved high-gloss everything... until we saw it all together and it felt like living inside a disco ball. Sometimes less is more, especially with finishes.
Once had a client who loved high-gloss everything... until we saw it all together and it felt like living inside a disco ball.
That disco ball vibe is real—had a similar situation with a developer who insisted on these massive, industrial-sized windows for a row of townhomes. Looked great in the renderings, but in person? Felt like you were on display at an aquarium. I’m always amazed how much the “feel” of a space changes once you see the actual materials and proportions together. Sometimes what looks bold on paper just feels... off in real life.
Sometimes what looks bold on paper just feels... off in real life.
Funny thing is, I actually kinda like that “aquarium” vibe sometimes. Big windows can totally transform a space if you play with privacy—think clever landscaping or frosted glass. Sure, it’s a risk, but sometimes those bold choices pay off in ways you don’t expect. Guess it’s all about balance and being willing to tweak things as you go.
Title: Building Base Structures—What If You Had To Start Over?
I get what you mean about the “aquarium” thing. I’ve seen a few builds where big windows looked amazing in renderings but felt weird once you were actually living there. That said, you’re right—landscaping or even just some well-placed shades can make a huge difference. It’s all trial and error, honestly. Sometimes those bold moves end up being the best part of the house, even if they take a while to get used to.
