Altered.

Issue 5, the essence of home

This week, we're considering the concept of home. Home is more than just a physical space. It’s a canvas for personal expression and creativity, influencing how we live and think. In this issue, we look at how artists, designers, and philosophers have interpreted and expressed the idea of home. Let’s dive into these inspiring pieces that highlight the profound meaning of home and how it can fuel our creativity.


"My energy has been accumulated and in a way I think my rubbing shows that."

Do Ho Suh, artist

Artist Do Ho Suh preserved the memories of his New York apartment by covering its surfaces with white paper and rubbing them with colored pencil. This work, "Rubbing/Loving", captures the emotional essence of his long-term home and studio. Suh's unique approach highlights the connection between personal space and memory.


"Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful."

William Morris, designer

Artist and designer William Morris sought to counteract the negative effects of the Industrial Revolution by promoting craftsmanship and quality in design. This commitment to creating meaningful, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces is as relevant today as ever. This video explores the interiors of Standen House, in West Sussex, England—and showcases the essence of Morris' message.


"Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify, simplify!"

Henry David Thoreau, philosopher

American essayist and philosopher Henry David Thoreau's is known for his reflections on nature and self-sufficiency. His work's emphasis on minimalism is often considered a precursor to the modern tiny house movement. Despite being around in the 1800s, you're able to chat with a virtual version of Thoreau today (thanks to AI). Hit the link for advice on simple living.


Alter. Tiny house

The culture and community of tiny houses grew enormously in the counterculture movements of the 70s, but it’s only in the last 20 years that we’ve been able to so keenly observe the explosive growth of beautiful tiny houses via thousands of plans, images, and videos. Let us day-dream about our own tiny house. How we’d build it. How we’d live in it. And how it would change our lives.

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