Learning architecture and urban planning from a video game- Animal Crossing x A Pattern Language JamesStuber.com⁠↗

But the physical space around you does have a strong influence–on your mood and even on your behavior. The layout of your town or city changes who you interact with, and what those interactions look like. In our homes, lighting, smell, and even the arrangement of furniture all affect us in subtle ways, even if we are tied to our screens.

This room looks cozy. But the illusion breaks down as soon as you live in it. Bedtime means moving at least seven pillows. Where? Probably to the ground. The nightstand decorations, so meticulously placed, now block any space for your water glass, your phone, your reading glasses. Waking up in the morning means groggily tiptoeing around pillows strewn everywhere. Try not to fall over as you pull on your socks.

A fully exposed garden will be awkward to work in, but a private garden won’t be used either. The shorter fencing here allows the resident to work in comfort while still being able to chat with neighbors who walk by.

A self-contained space for dressing allows the rest of the bedroom to become a place of relaxation instead of a closet.