DID YOU HEAR THAT?
Last month, we got a brand-new dishwasher, and sold our old one. The old dishwasher, although it cleaned the dishes, it was so noisy. Like there was a plane taking off in our kitchen, noisy. It was unpleasant to watch TV in the next room when the dishwasher was on, because as soon as that motor started, all we heard was “WHAAARRRRRRRR”.
The new dishwasher is a thing of beauty. I mean, not only is it new stainless steel and the perfect companion to our neighboring sink, but it is so quiet. I have to try to listen for it, and even then, it’s only at certain times that I hear it.
Sound is a powerful thing - it can make our homes can feel chaotic even when they are put together and clean. Anyone with kiddos can attest to how sound can either make a space feel calm or like chaos in a matter of seconds (I am looking at you, mamas with toddlers! I am there too!)
Let’s take a look at some sound considerations for a home:
White Noise: This is an odd consideration for residential in my mind, as I most often considered this in office spaces or exam rooms with my experience in commercial design. However, especially if you live in an apartment, near a busy road, or home with many other people, it can be helpful to have some white noise to drown out background noise. Sound machines while babies are sleeping is a prime example! Air purifiers can actually be a wonderful way to double dip - have cleaner air and a low hum in the background to create a more peaceful home.
Appliance Noise: If you have a wildly obnoxious appliance like our old dishwasher - consider upgrading! I was surprised to notice the sounds our refrigerator made once we got moved back into our kitchen, it startled me the first couple times I heard it doing it’s refrigerator thing. I am used to it again now, but it is an interesting consideration to think about.
Background Music: Music can make a difference and enhance or detract from the feel of your space. For me, evenings can go from sweet to sour in a matter of seconds while juggling dinner, hungry toddlers, and the weight of bedtime approaching. However, the difference that turning on some music can make on my attitude and my kiddos is wonderful. Turning on some music can change a crying session into dancing in the kitchen. Consider using some speakers in common areas of your home to interrupt typically chaotic times in your house - it has made a difference for me!
If you find yourself on edge often in your home, part of it might be the noise you are processing subconsciously. So sit back, relax, and take a listen to your home!
If you want help creating a home that is Intentional, Beautiful, and Yours - in the midst of daily living and your life season - check out my Signature Workshop. It’s designed to help you create a home that highlights your heart for your family, and I would love if you checked it out.
