Mike Smith:
Daniel, thanks for being on the show this week and raising our awareness of the influence of architecture on our daily lives. Today, could you tell us how parents can get their kids involved in the architecture and aesthetics of their homes?

Daniel Lee:
My kids love to get involved. And for a learning experience for children, I recommend parents take just one room in their home as a start, and explore the dramatic impact of color on their architectural environment with paint. This is practical and will produce a great return on your investment.

Each color, you will discover, has a mood, and its own powerful sense of space and common associations. For example, a sunny yellow has a cheerful spirit, a sense of openness, and is often associated with the morning. Color, just by itself, makes a huge difference in architecture.

Make sure your children participate in choosing the color in the project, from beginning to end. Next, move on to select and place objects in the room, meaning the furniture, artwork—your children’s artwork, even—books, lighting fixtures, and even flowers. Then, let your children actually direct the placement of those objects in your newly painted room, with your help. And then let them move it all around again, two weeks later. Sounds crazy—but it’s a great learning tool.

Eventually, take on another room, landscape your garden, build a new wing to your house. Have lots of fun—but start with paint.

Mike:
That’s great! I know our listeners will appreciate your insights, Daniel. Until next time, I’m Mike Smith.