Writing About a House
A house is a building that functions as a habitat for humans or other creatures. Houses come in various colors, materials, systems, shapes and sizes, from the rudimentary hut of nomadic tribes to modern multi-roomed dwellings with state-of-the-art technology. Houses can be occupied by a single family, a group of families, or individuals and may be owned by private citizens or corporations. The word “house” can also refer to a structure that serves as the headquarters of an organization or institution.
When writing about a house, consider the context in which it will appear and how the character perceives it. For instance, a character might feel safe and secure within the walls of their own home, or they could experience fear and unease at a stranger’s house. The house may evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing for a former home or childhood memories. The atmosphere of a house can be influenced by weather, with sunshine bathing the facade in warmth, and the same house can appear ominous and foreboding during a thunderstorm. Personal experiences can also influence the way a character feels about a house, with memories of happy family dinners or traumatic events coloring their perception.
Including relevant details can enhance the readers’ experience of your story and draw them into the house. For example, if the house is set in a certain time period, including historical elements like a creaking floorboard or ancient artifacts can help readers imagine what it might be like to live there. Additionally, if your character has a unique relationship to the house, describing special features like a secret room or stunning stained-glass window can make them feel more invested in the story.
Houses can be a symbol of wealth and status, with the most elaborate houses often serving as indicators of conspicuous consumption. In contrast, simple homes built from recycled materials can signal a commitment to environmental sustainability. Houses can also serve as a social statement, with some buildings having significant political or historical significance being given special protection from demolition or being designated heritage sites.
When referring to groups of people, the term “house” is often used to refer to a family or a group of people living together, such as the House of Tudor or the House of Representatives. Likewise, the term can be applied to institutions, such as churches or universities.
