Well here's the, not so level, door frame that I was talking about in a previous post. Our house was built in 1877, and there was some subsidence many many years ago, partly I think, due to the fact that most of the houses around the area were very close the mines that peppered the East of Bristol (at that time).
Its true wonkiness wasn't immediately obvious, but on closer inspection the top of the door gave it away. I like the eclectic mix of objects on and around the door, perhaps an attempt to divert attention from the door's imperfections? or perhaps you find the imperfections appealing?; we too have a similar, probably wonkier door frame, (to be seen much later in the tour) however it really doesn't bother me, and I suspect most visitors to the house have probably never noticed it.
ReplyDeleteI do find imperfections quite appealing nowadays, or is that just because I'm getting older? No seriously, over time I have had to reconcile myself with living in a house that has wonky doorways and saggy walls. The journey of restoration has changed my ideas of what I wanted 'then', understanding what is possible to 'do' (without having millions to spend) and also changing my ideas and feelings during spending time dwelling in this place. The character of the house has really grown on me, and I think I have grown with it. I appreciate it's tactility and feel secure here, like it's somewhere I am meant to be.
ReplyDeleteR.e. the objects around the door - the small sign is a Richard Tipping - I thought having it at an entrance, or exit was fitting - "There is no Avant Garde, only those who have been left behind." A lot of the time I'm not sure if I'm in front, or left behind!
I totally agree with the sentiment that when you inhabit a house, you adapt and become accepting of its imperfections and idiosyncrasies. In terms of home improvements it is also a case of being realistic, in our case the house is a Grade II listed building, so in some instances we are restricted by forces that are outside of our control, this in itself is quite frustrating, however it is a consequence of inhabiting a property that someone has deemed has historical or architectural merit, and I suppose we have an obligation to the house in that respect.
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