The Power of Music & Aesthetics in Everyday Life
Music! I'm going to go out on a whim here and assume you probably love it. The style may differ from your neighbors, but we all find inspiration within it. I prefer listening to music while I work because it motivates me on an almost subconcious level. Actually, I listen to music roughly 85% of the time, because it reflects how I want to feel. As I'm writing this (and possibly why I'm writing this) I'm listening to this reggae playlist. This isn't usually my first choice, but I was feeling it today. Depending on the need for technical vs. creative focus, I may choose one of my go-to yacht rock, indie, or electronic playlists. There are so many options to choose from! Listening to something different than my norm got me thinking: Auditory surroundings are, in my opinion, equally as impactful as visual ones.
Your surroundings have a huge effect on your mood, creativity, and productivity. Decision-making being a major side-effect of those surroundings. Awareness is key to understanding why you feel the way you do or act the way you do. As an example, if you ask me what my favorite color is, I will most likely reply with "It depends on the day!" Today, I'm particularly drawn to indigo and orange tones because of a piece of art in my office I'm vibing with. If you asked me yesterday, I would almost certainly have told you yellows and greens because of the beautiful wildflowers on my hike. My surroundings constantly inspire me in different ways.
To be a good designer, I believe it's important to understand and appreciate different styles. For instance, while the Traditional style is not my favorite, I love the sense of history and comfort that comes with it if done well. I understand why some individuals prefer this style and can create something they will love. Some people think that a minimalist design style can be "cold" or "stark". However, in my opinion, the appeal is the simplicity and almost freeing energy that lets the user of the space be the element that stands out. It's my job to design a space for you, not for me, and I'll do my best to understand your sense of style and implement it.
Whatever design style you have, whatever taste in music or fashion you possess, all that matters is that you enjoy it. It's quite simple, really. If you like chaotic, embrace chaotic. If you like acoustic, embrace acoustic. If you like it all, share it in whatever way you see fit. The world is colorful because we are all different. Keep it interesting by being unique in your own way. Keep it beautiful by appreciating opinions that may differ from yours. I'm not talking politics or beliefs here - I am in no way an expert there. I'm talking about some of your most basic of gifts: visual and auditory interpretation.
What surroundings are inspiring you today?
