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ORCID
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7010-031X
Access Type
Open Access Thesis
Document Type
thesis
Degree Program
Architecture
Degree Type
Master of Architecture (M.Arch.)
Year Degree Awarded
2021
Month Degree Awarded
May
Abstract
Color is an essential part of everyday life, but it is often not given the consideration it deserves. Simply, waking up in the morning and pulling on a pair of blue jeans and a white t-shirt is an example of a decision made about color. What behooves a person to dress in a certain color? Is it related to their mood? Is it related to the kind of work they do? Similar questions can be asked about the exterior color of a person’s home. Why did they choose that color? How do they feel about their house’s color? Did they choose its color? Did they choose the color because it looked harmonious with their neighbor’s house? Is it fair to wonder whether there is a discernible reason behind every color decision that is made?
The prevalence of the unassuming color beige on residences throughout Western Massachusetts and the curiosity to know why it is so common, was the specific impetus for this project. Why has beige, in particular, been selected as an acceptable house color? Moreover, why aren’t other colors like pink or orange, often seen on houses? There are regional, historical, and larger cultural investigations that can shed light on why some colors are favored over others.
It must be acknowledged that to dwell in the realm of color, is inevitably to dwell in the realm of opinion. This project seeks to explore color in a conciliatory, strategic manner, that does not polarize those who prefer one color against those who do not. Rather, a case is made for how color’s treasure trove of untapped potential can be given a greater purpose amongst the built environment.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/22721012.0
First Advisor
Timothy Rohan
Recommended Citation
Crawford-Mendoza, Alma, "The Beige Conundrum" (2021). Masters Theses. 1042.
https://doi.org/10.7275/22721012.0
https://scholarworks.umass.edu/masters_theses_2/1042