Systems Librarian, Susie Bille, recommends Living on Vacation: Contemporary Houses for Tranquil Living by Rachel Giles.
The world has been watching a war unfold through horrifying images and stories.
My heart breaks to see people running for their lives, terrified and disoriented, their homes reduced to rubble. We’ve also lost cherished people here recently through illness, and I reflect every day on the importance of feeling safe.
Where we are heavily influences who we are able to be. Our identities are connected to where we live. We are so lucky to be able to define our community with orderly streets, buildings, mountains, trails, and desert, surrounded by decent people. We aren’t confronted with man-made chaos; we are safe, and we perch on the edge of wilderness.
Sanctuary for us, here in the Wood River Valley, is within walking distance, and this knowledge influences how we can choose to live. I use those words deliberately, as most of us have this distinction in common—we made a conscious choice to live here, leaving other places behind.
Living on Vacation takes a close look at some spectacular homes located on islands and mountains, in forests and deserts, overlooking lakes and the sea. The concept is tranquil living, an ideal for all people. Many of us came here for the same reason.
Happiness and misery, security, peace, and restlessness are all influenced by the walls and community surrounding us. Good design stands to remind people of their full potential. It can prod and push, be uncomfortable and unsettling. Perfect spaces can help you pause and reflect, frame vistas to give hope, and help the ones you love find comfort.
A private sanctuary may not be within your personal grasp, but the idea and the dream to create one is worth nurturing. Walk through the pages of this book, and consider the beauty surrounding us. We’ve spent the past couple of years celebrating people’s differences. Let’s also focus on how we are all the same. Nurture the dream of sanctuary and security for all people.
