When it comes to constructing a house, the people’s physical structure and traditional beliefs can significantly impact the design of a house. However, it can take time to determine what is truly influencing the creation of the home and what is just a coincidence.
Conventional Beliefs
If there are moderate political beliefs, there are also traditional beliefs. When it comes to home architecture, it is essential to understand that conventional beliefs influence how architecture is made. Some myths and beliefs exist from the decks to the inside of the house. This could be a result of the oral traditions that are present in many aspects of modern-day society. For example, in Scandinavia, a tree is often placed on a newly-constructed building to appease the tree spirit. In the Philippines, ghosts are said to gather in low areas. And in New England, witch windows are popular.
However, a society’s propensity for superstitions can also impact how much these traditions affect a home’s architecture. As a result, notable exit routes are often required for basements and spirits are believed to gather in a specific location. It is also common in Thailand to build a spirit house. The purpose of these houses is to appease the dead.
Physical Structure
The architecture of a home may be as old as time, but the belief systems that influence the creation of a well-designed dwelling are anything but. Often, these result from oral traditions and societal predispositions to superstition. In particular, many believe welcoming a rising sun at the front door will boost their luck. Others orient their staircase to the right to increase their fortunes. Still, others make a point of keeping their doors closed during bad weather. While these beliefs are common, the amount of integration in architectural works is far less than you might think.
Architectural Style
Home architecture has a significant impact on the way people use space. It is influenced by beliefs and customs. These influences can be controlled by societal preconceptions and can also be influenced by aesthetics. However, the impact of superstitions should not be so overwhelming that it affects the design’s functional application.
For example, orienting the staircase in the right direction in some cultures can boost your luck. In some other cultures, numerology is considered bad luck. Fortunately, scientific investigation has proven these to be false. Instead of incorporating these superstitions into the design, the architects should focus on the facts. If they do not do this, their architectural work may suffer from the influence of the beliefs.
Some countries in the Eastern region still preserve their traditional elements in modern house designs. This includes using modern materials and construction forms. The level of integration into architectural works is often a result of oral traditions and societal predispositions to superstitions.
