Making a Home: The Construction of Both Material and Psychological Spaces
The concept of "home" is not merely constructed of physical materials; it also encompasses a deep sense of psychological identification. Our childhood home is often considered the first true "home" because it serves as an emotional anchor during our formative years. If the places we live in later in life do not undergo a similar psychological recognition, they can be hard to truly call "home."A childhood home is more than just a physical space—it is a cornerstone of emotional and psychological development, shaping our memories and identity.
Bricks: The Bridge Between Material Construction and Psychological Identification
Bricks are a fundamental element in constructing a material "home." Though brick sizes vary in different countries, they consistently serve as one of the basic units of home construction. It is through the accumulation of these bricks that we create a physical home. In Taiwan, the standard brick size is 250x115x53 mm, which continues to be widely used in building houses, except for modern high-rises. As these bricks are stacked into walls, they eventually generate a sense of psychological identification, transforming the structure into what we genuinely recognise as "home." During waterproofing work on my parent's home, the workers revealed red bricks under the damaged concrete layer. This moment allowed me to witness the "skeleton" of the house and deeply feel my emotional connection with it.
Concrete: A Reflection of Functionality and Efficiency
Concrete is widely used in Taiwan due to its efficiency and quickness in construction. However, one drawback is its poor water resistance, which has caused many leaking issues in older buildings. Concrete, as a material, not only represents the construction of homes but also reflects the development of Taiwanese society and mentality. For many Taiwanese people, functionality, efficiency, low cost, and speed are the top priorities for construction. When we think of buildings in Taiwan, we often picture a "concrete jungle"—this material has become part of the urban landscape.
Cardboard Boxes: Creating Temporary Spaces
After my mother passed away eight years ago, I lost everything related to her, including the house I grew up in. Since then, I have moved several times, always carrying many cardboard boxes. These boxes became a part of my furniture or even part of the spaces I temporarily stayed in. I wondered if I could create something with these boxes—perhaps temporary objects that I could use. This idea eventually influenced my perspective on daily objects, transforming how I viewed the role of cardboard boxes in creating temporary "homes."
Lights: A Symbol of Warmth in the Home
Light is an essential symbol of home. When a light is on in the house, it signals that someone is home. The light creates warmth, transforming a space from just a house with furniture into a "home" in our minds. When I was little, seeing the light in my home from a distance made me feel relieved and safe, knowing someone was waiting for me. The light gave the place emotional significance, turning it into a comforting home.
