Ashlee (of ProjectExpansion.wordpress.com)'s Profile

I think this is a very interesting topic, and I'd be curious to hear more on the story as it develops in your neighborhood (like what this neighbor is really like!)

The context of something can really change our perception of the situation. Perhaps in this case the neighbor has a compelling story or reason for choosing to paint his house this color (and hopes his neighbors can appreciate it), or maybe he is of the attitude and opinion that he simply wants to be shocking (and doesn't care at all what his neighbors think, and maybe even enjoys irritating them.)

I currently live in a historic district in Pacific Grove California, the homes here are Victorian and so bright imaginative colors are popular, as they often are in areas with these style homes. I have experienced two different situations in past neighborhoods however where the issue you are addressing came to public debate. In one case it was a neighbor who was purposely trying to be obnoxious (and as you can imagine the community did not respond well and it ended with the house in question increasing its offensiveness until the city stepped in), and in the other case the local paper did a feature on the home with images through out the house and explanations from the home owners about their inspiration and taste (this lead to a warm welcoming response from the community who ended up deciding that they enjoyed the way it brightened up their neighborhood.)

So in the end I guess I feel that yes, you should consider your neighbors when joining a community, but of course you don't necessarily have to let them control your final decisions in how to create your home (outside of codes and regulations.) You can never please everyone, however kind and thoughtful regard can go a long way. If the city decided that color was not important in sustaining the neighborhoods historic integrity, then I cannot really form an opinion on the case as it pertains to that issue. As someone currently looking for a new home I can say that neighborhood is a huge factor in that decision, so people certainly have a right to have an opinion about how their neighbors contribute to the communities aesthetics, and I can imagine that a dramatic change in those aesthetics after you are settled into a lovely area, could take some to adjust to!

I hope this neighbor turns out to be delightful and full of wonderful reasons for his bizarre color choice that make the community more comfortable!

PS- I am moving to DC in october, what neighborhood is this you speak of and do you have any suggestions for a young married couple?!