Psychologists Say There's a Reason You Love Antique Things and Old Places
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There are those of us for whom a Saturday at the flea market or a visit to the quirky, independently owned coffee shop is as essential to our well-being as a jog in the park or a regular catchup with loved ones. We inexplicably feel at home in these spaces, reassured that they still exist when so many other mainstays have come and gone.
If you're compelled to seek out vintage-era or historically significant settings, explaining the reasoning behind your penchant for the old, or old-timey, may seem odd, even nonsensical: Can't you get the same feelings of enjoyment while window shopping at a big-box store? Isn't the chain coffee shop more convenient and cheaper?
It turns out that this ineffable feeling of belonging can't be reproduced with more standardized, commercialized, modern substitutions. The reason for this is due to a socioecological concept known as "place authenticity." It's a bona fide psychological phenomenon—and a good thing to keep in mind the next time you find yourself unable to resist a trip to the arthouse cinema over the multiplex.
What Is Place Authenticity?
"Place authenticity refers to the unique essence of a place that makes it feel genuine, alive, and connected to its history, culture, or community," explains Ashley Krause, M.S., a doctoral student in the Department of Psychology at the University of Florida and the coauthor of a study on this concept.
Place authenticity intersects with personal authenticity (that is, the sense of being true to oneself), which may account for those feelings of engaged enjoyment in places whose unique look and feel are singular and irreplaceable. After all, they're one of a kind—just like you.
"In one of our studies, we asked participants to recall a time when they felt connected to a particular place. What we found was that the authenticity of the place participants described was linked to deeper emotional and psychological connections," says Krause, emphasizing the interdependence of personal and place authenticity. "A place can become a source of continuity, stability, and identity, offering refuge from the homogenized spaces that often dominate modern life."
Note that place authenticity is also a subjective experience. Krause's paper on the concept posits that two people may have entirely differing views on the assumed authenticity of a place—and the same person may even perceive the place as more or less authentic in differing circumstances. For example, that record store in your neighborhood that you deem the epitome of authentic spirit may be seen by another person as an upstart that replaced the authentic mom-and-pop shop they remember occupying the space previously.
Characteristics of Place Authenticity
When you experience an innate sense of belonging somewhere—even if you've never stepped foot there previously—it's pretty safe to assume that there's something that feels authentic about the setting to you. Unless you are incredibly conscious of the effect a space has on you, it's easy for this feeling to sweep over you as a general feeling of inexplicable calm. But, in fact, several subtle but identifiable factors contribute to that sense of ease.
"Place authenticity often manifests through a combination of sensory experiences, historical or cultural elements, and community connections," says Krause. She explains how these elements break down categorically:
Aesthetics: The architecture, materials, and design are often distinct and specific to the area's cultural or historical context, rather than mass-produced or cookie-cutter.
Sensory richness: This includes the smells, sounds, textures, and visuals of the environment.
Personal connections: Authentic places often creates a sense of community, as gathering places where people know each other, engage in meaningful interactions, and share a common sense of belonging.
History and tradition: The place is often rooted in its own local or cultural history with elements that reflect the past, such as preserved architecture, traditional design elements, or local craftsmanship.
An atmosphere of warmth and individuality: The space feels lived-in, inviting, and personal, as if it has been shaped by the people who frequent it and the values they share.
Bringing Place Authenticity Into the Home
Our homes, by default, may seem like a guaranteed wellspring of place authenticity. But this may not always be the case if we've just moved into a new build, for example. Just as the concept of slow decorating encourages patience to achieve an aesthetic outcome that is unlike anyone else's, cultivating place authenticity in the home similarly takes time.
"Authenticity arises from genuine connections, history, and emotional resonance, and these can't be replicated by simply mimicking aesthetic elements," says Krause. Luckily, the principles of place authenticity can be translated into the home in three distinct ways.
First, you can incorporate elements with history, which is great news for vintage lovers. "Whether it’s heirlooms, antique furniture, or artwork that reflects your personality or culture, items that carry personal or cultural significance can help your home feel more rooted and authentic," says Krause.
Next, while it's fun to keep up with the latest home decor trends, a place that feels authentic to you is personalized to your tastes and values. Even if you're incorporating design elements and trends that you've admired in other people's homes, Krause recommends that you "include decor that speaks to your identity—perhaps items from local artisans or decor that reflects your cultural heritage or personal experiences."
Finally, make it a priority to create spaces that encourage human connection at home. The memories you make in this convivial atmosphere help to infuse a home with a warmer, more lived-in vibe. "Spaces that facilitate social interaction, like a welcoming kitchen or cozy living room, can foster a sense of community," says Krause. "The more your space feels connected to the people you love, the more authentic it will feel."
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