Dag Aabye
If your instinct is to begin with "no" or to enumerate obstacles, move on. We practice engagement and possibility, not limitation. We thrive on navigating ideas' complexities and moving towards solutions rather than retreating into an obstruction. In other words, if you start by saying no, reconsider. We work with yes, with ideas, not barriers. We build, not block.
This ethos of building and embracing new possibilities seamlessly aligns with my current academic pursuits. Welcome to a vision where sustainability, cultural landscapes, and heritage studies converge to shape a future that honors the past while embracing the present and future. As a full-time student at the University of Virginia's Architecture School, I am fueled by a passion for uncovering the lesser-known narratives of global history, architectural theory, and criticism. My academic journey is steering me toward high honors in Architectural and Art History, setting the stage for advanced study in my upcoming Master's program and a Certificate in Historic Preservation.
My research adopts a comprehensive approach to sustainability, extending beyond environmental considerations to embrace social equity, economic prosperity, and the intricate histories and racial narratives that define our spaces. I am dedicated to offering new insights into American homes and estates, examining them through the dual lenses of craftsmanship and sustainable practices to trace their evolving relationship.
At the core of my philosophy is the power of awe—a profound feeling that reshapes our perception of our place in the world, encouraging us to see ourselves as essential participants on this planet. This perspective is vital for cultivating a deep sense of belonging and responsibility, driving us to inspire, challenge, and lead toward a future where sustainability underpins all our actions and designs.
The Morven Sustainability Lab at UVA stands at the intersection of my academic and professional endeavors, merging architecture, sustainability, and historical landscapes. As a leading sustainability initiative, Morven cultivates a multidisciplinary community that tackles contemporary ecological challenges through education, research, and conservation.
Character Home is my platform for exploring and sharing my passion for the public and private domestic sphere. Here, I delve into the evolution of spaces, considering their spatial and material dimensions. I aim to inspire and provide practical guidance for preserving and adapting vernacular and custom home architecture, supported by spirited writing and smartphone photography. Additionally, engaging with critical theories enriches our appreciation and approach to these varied topics.
I am deeply interested in the intersections of multiple disciplines, including history, architecture, fashion, decorative art, fine art, gardens, graphics, jewelry, photography, lighting, color theory, industrial design, materials, and textiles. Character Home integrates design elements from these diverse fields to forge connections within the design world, fostering a richer understanding of the home's tangible, intangible, and emotional facets.
I echo the late Fred Hiatt of the Washington Post:
"What I do believe...is...really good, serious, readable, reliable [content] and really good, serious, readable, thoughtful, unpurchased, non-yelling opinion" (Washington Post).
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I travel to many places, but much of the writing and photography refined for characterhome.com happen on the territory homelands of the Monacan Nation and Piscataway Nation. This region's history, deeply intertwined with the transatlantic and plantation slave trades, reflects both indigenous presence and the impact of slavery. As someone
I travel to many places, but much of the writing and photography refined for characterhome.com happen on the territory homelands of the Monacan Nation and Piscataway Nation. This region's history, deeply intertwined with the transatlantic and plantation slave trades, reflects both indigenous presence and the impact of slavery. As someone benefiting from white male privilege, I recognize that my perspectives are shaped by experiences and advantages not universally shared. I am committed to acknowledging this complex past and continuously learning from it. Despite my best efforts, I'm sure limitations exist. I welcome your comments.
Image source: https://www.monacannation.com/
In presenting my narratives, I strive for comprehensiveness and respect while actively engaging 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, allies, and villains. I understand that inclusivity means inviting diverse voices, listening to them, and allowing them to shape my work. My work is an aperture of inclusivity, diversity, otherness, and ongoing engagemen
In presenting my narratives, I strive for comprehensiveness and respect while actively engaging 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, allies, and villains. I understand that inclusivity means inviting diverse voices, listening to them, and allowing them to shape my work. My work is an aperture of inclusivity, diversity, otherness, and ongoing engagement with these histories and communities. This journey is a continuing process of learning, unlearning, and relearning, and I am dedicated to it personally and professionally.
Image source: labs.openai.com
In line with Dag Aabye's belief that 'age is something other people put on you,' I consciously avoid ageist biases and stereotypes, recognizing that age, much like other social constructs, should not define or limit our understanding and engagement with individuals across the spectrum of life.
Image source: https://runningmagazine.ca/trail-running/watch-canadas-most-remarkable-trail-runner/
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