What's It Worth?

Good question. Let's set that aside for a moment. First, I want to talk about "special-ness." You could name this quality "remarkable" or "exceptional" if you like. I'm going with special. However you define it, "special" is that intangible something that we all value and desire. In relationships, in places we love, in the work & play we pursue, in the objects we collect over time, we seek it out.

Even when it seems entirely unjustified, people will pay dearly for special. Example: Why would a person spend 700 bucks for a bar stool at Design Within Reach

when they can get one for $16 at IKEA?

What's the difference? Eye of the beholder, you could say. You could say there is no more than a superficial difference (aside from price). This is furniture--a place to park your butt while you skarf down a breakfast cup of yogurt on a workday morning. Both are stylish and will do the job nicely.

Ask again, what's the difference? One of them is special (in the eye of the beholder). A portion of people will notice and appreciate the difference. A smaller portion of those who appreciate the difference will feel moved by the creative vision embodied in the piece and will buy it.

"Is it worth it?" is a question each of us has internalized over time. It governs our choices. If it intrigues me, if it moves me--I value it. You may ask, what does all this have to do with home renovation? Surely, there is a connection somewhere.... What's it worth?