Dag Aabye
Welcome to a vision where sustainability, cultural landscapes, and heritage studies unite to shape a future that values the past while embracing the present and future. I am on a journey as a full-time student at the University of Virginia's Architecture School, driven by a passion for the untold stories of global history, architectural theory, and criticism. My academic path is leading me to high honors in Architectural and Art History, laying the foundation for a deeper exploration in my upcoming Master's program and Certificate in Historic Preservation.
My research takes a holistic approach to sustainability, looking beyond the environment to include social equity, economic prosperity, and the rich tapestry of historical landscapes and racial narratives that define our spaces. I aim to offer fresh perspectives on American homes and estates through the lens of craftsmanship and sustainable practices, revealing the intertwined evolution of these concepts.
Central to my philosophy is the belief in the transformative power of awe. This sensation compels us to view ourselves not merely as individuals but as integral inhabitants of Earth. Such a perspective is essential for fostering a deep sense of belonging and stewardship, urging us to inspire, challenge, and lead toward a future where sustainability is a foundational principle in all our actions and designs.
In this context, The Morven Sustainability lab at UVA is a beacon of my academic and professional pursuits, intersecting architecture, sustainability, and historical landscapes. As a pioneering sustainability lab rooted deeply in these concepts, Morven fosters a multidisciplinary community that addresses our era's ecological challenges through education, research, and conservation.
Character Home is a platform where I explore and share my passion for public and private domestic spaces, delving into their evolution and spatial and material aspects. I aim to inspire and provide details for preserving and adapting vernacular and bespoke home architecture, achieved through alacritous writing and smartphone photography. Furthermore, studying and applying critical theories elevates our understanding and approach to these diverse subjects.
I am passionate about how different disciplines intersect and relate, including history, architecture, fashion, decorative art, fine art, gardens, graphics, jewelry, photography, lighting, color theory, industrial design, materials, and textiles. Character Home draws on design elements from these varied fields to create connections within the design world. This approach leads to a deeper understanding of the home's tangible, intangible, and emotional aspects.
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).
Subscribe to my newsletter. You will get updates on new posts and unique content.
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/
Copyright © 2012-2024 Character Home - All Rights Reserved.
Character Home is a Registered Trademark
We use cookies and similar technologies to improve and learn about your experience on this website. Click to see our Privacy + Cookie Policy.