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Last week, I talked about the vibrance and convenience of urban living along with a few of its challenges. It seems only appropriate to now talk about the pros and cons of living in the country.

After a hectic week of making sure family and friends were safe in the storm, we retreated to upstate South Carolina. And while the city has vibrancy – the country has tranquility. Upon our arrival, I could feel the tension leaving and relaxation setting in.

The quiet of the country

There is a specific kind of quiet here. We don’t hear cars horns, rumbling trucks, the high pitch whine of a motorcycle, train whistles, or fire trucks. That doesn’t mean we don’t have sounds – various birds fill the air with their distinct songs which we love to hear. We have learned the distinct laugh of the woodpecker, the eerie hoot of the owl, and the piercing screech of the hawk. We also have the soothing sounds of a waterfall. Are you starting to relax just reading this?

Biophilia

There is an emerging point of view that the sights, sounds, and fresh air of nature are healthy – even restorative. Watching the play of filtered light streaming through the nearby trees is soothing. My New York City daughter and her husband have discovered the special sense of “ahh” that you get from nature as they love to get away from the city and go camping.

Wildlife

The country has more than just birds for wildlife – some of which is not welcome in our yard. The white tail deer are abundant here and are always hungry. Just ask my flowers. Of course, driving at dawn and dusk can be downright nerve racking for fear a deer may sudden pop out of the woods as they are prone to do.

We once had a sick raccoon attempt to gain access to our screen enclosure via the doggy door. He had to be removed.

Of course, there are snakes – yuk.

But there are also bears. Our neighbor captured one on his security camera.

I recently saw the most beautiful red fox in our backyard, but I chased him off before the dogs discovered him.

Remoteness

Unlike San Marco, our grocery store is a 25-minute drive – so do not forget anything on the list. Most of the fine dining is 45 minutes away or more away as is shopping. Luckily, UPS knows how to find us for our online purchases along with the post office. We are also fortunate to have great internet access. Getting repair services is almost laughable. You’re where? Yes – even in the country, appliances breakdown.

Darkness

While the city has ample light – the country has none! There are no streetlights, and the trees block any lights from nearby homes. We discovered how awesome low voltage outdoor lighting is – especially now as the days grow shorter.

City vs Country

Since most of don’t live in the country, we need to find ways to add the comforts and biophilia of the country into our cities. Adding awesome parks with convenient access to them is one way.  What else? Email me at Housing Design Matters.