ᐅ White and Anthracite – Where Does the Preference Come From?

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I find white plaster facades with white windows and red gable/hip roofs absolutely hideous....

But it's all fine as long as I'm not sitting on my terrace having to look at it.

We really have luxury problems.

@hampshire: I agree about the amount, but in front of the house—whether you like it or not—nothing is sealed at all; all the rainwater infiltrates into the ground. The so-called "eco-paving" in the driveway is especially good in this regard (and by the way, quite expensive). Behind the house, we have wagtails, and every year a hedgehog spends the winter there...

Pinkiponk schrieb:

I share your opinion. That’s why I started this thread—I’m interested in the background reasons. Who is attracted by what, and for what reasons? Who associates certain colors, shapes, or combinations with specific meanings? I find that incredibly fascinating.

tumaa schrieb:

I think white rendered façades with white windows and red gable or hip roofs look really ugly...

Most people don’t consciously choose the combination like that. There is usually a zoning plan or development guideline that dictates the combination, as was the case for us. Since I don’t like brickwork, a regulated white façade worked well. The windows were already gray in my parents’ house and in the previous home, so that wasn’t really questioned.

This combination is also available to most homebuilders with only a small extra cost.

Without extra charge: @tumaa’s quote. Harsh words hurt me on behalf of the homeowners who can only afford or have to build a white/white/red combination.

PS: I find Berny’s front garden quite depressing.

Pinkiponk schrieb:

I’ve noticed that many new houses are being built in white and anthracite colors, and anthracite tones are also chosen for kitchens or bathroom tiles. As someone who prefers soft yellow-cream-white, soft yellow-cream-green, or soft yellow-cream-light wood tones, I would like to know what you appreciate about the white-anthracite combination and whether anthracite doesn’t feel depressing to you emotionally.
I’m also interested in what you associate with this color scheme, what memories or impressions come to mind. And whether, in your opinion, it has always been exactly what you wanted and liked or if you were motivated by the many current examples.
Feel free to share your thoughts and feelings openly; I’m not even sure this question can be answered logically anyway.

You definitely can’t approach this question logically, as you can read above. Design and eco-zealots label anyone with a different opinion or taste as an environmental criminal or a taste troll. If you’re not with me, you’re against me and therefore inferior. Tolerance only for my views, etc... Strange times! For example, we consciously chose exactly this. I handed over responsibility for colors and design to my wife many years ago. Whatever she likes, I like too, period. And she finds the white/anthracite combination chic. That’s enough for me. We don’t find it emotionally depressing; we still like it just as much after almost two years as we did at the start. We don’t like the often-seen red/white or yellow/blue combinations, nor the cute flower beds with garden gnomes or similar; but we would never criticize anyone or use derogatory words because of that. Everyone should be free to do what they think is right—unless it’s predetermined in a new development. Sometimes even the type and height of planting is regulated there. I think that’s silly. But why did I foolishly upload a photo showing the area in front of the house as well? I really only wanted to illustrate the house colors as per the question. The days of true tolerance, a culture of discussion, and relaxed interaction with each other are probably truly over, which is a pity...

berny schrieb:

Many years ago, I already gave my wife responsibility for colors, design, etc.

The white/anthracite phase has been around for 10 years, if not longer.

berny schrieb:

If she likes it, then I like it too, end of discussion.

What she likes does not have to please us all, end of discussion. You want tolerance? You have it. Everyone should take part in ecology. That is not about trends or taste.

berny schrieb:

...

Often, people probably cannot fully understand why they prefer one color or shape over another. So you are right that we cannot always approach this question purely with logic. For example, I only know that I perceive round shapes as softer and perhaps more sensual. As for shades of yellow, it’s more straightforward; I find them sunny, friendly, and inviting, which makes them appealing to me. However, I still don’t wear yellow clothing.