It is ridiculous to impose on people where a thing should stand, designing everything for them from the toilet to the ashtray. On the contrary, I prefer people to move their furniture so it suits them {not me!}, and it's quite natural {and I approve} when they bring in old pictures and mementos they love into a new interior, regardless of whether they are good taste or bad.
This quote emphasizes the importance of personal comfort and individual expression in interior design. It challenges rigid, one-size-fits-all standards that dictate how spaces should look, instead advocating for a flexible approach that respects personal habits, memories, and preferences. The author, Adolf Loos, suggests that true comfort and authenticity in a space come from allowing residents to arrange their environments according to their unique tastes and lifestyle. Installing furniture or decor based solely on aesthetic rules stripping away the personal historia and sentiment often results in sterile, impersonal spaces. By encouraging people to bring their cherished belongings, such as old photographs or mementos, into their living environments, the quote champions the integrity of personal history and emotional connection. It aligns with modern ideas of functional and personalized design, reminding us that spaces should serve the individual's needs rather than conforming to societal or stylistic expectations. This perspective fosters a sense of ownership and comfort, ensuring the space truly feels like home. It also underscores the value of authenticity and the rejection of superficial aesthetics, urging designers and individuals alike to prioritize meaningful personalization over fleeting trends. Overall, the quote advocates for a human-centered approach to interior design—one that celebrates individuality and comfort over conformity and superficial polish.