Shelter is listed as one of the fundamental needs in the pyramid of needs hierarchy by Abraham Maslow. Maslow, a humanist, diagramed five levels of human need which serve as building blocks to one another and culminate at the tip of the pyramid with self-actualization. According to Maslow, one area of need must be met before the next higher level of need can be addressed. In the describing of self-actualization, Maslow writes, “What a man can be, he must be”.

Here is a description of those building blocks. First, along the bottom of the pyramid, we have our physiological needs (food, water and sleep), followed by safety (shelter and security). Third is love and belonging (family and friends) followed by esteem (recognition and respect), and ending with self-actualization.

During this time of COVID 19 and uncertainty, we have been asked to “shelter in place” with “stay at home” orders. Maslow understood the psychological effects in the absence of physical safety. People may experience post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of war, natural disaster (pandemic), violence, or abuse. The need for shelter and security comes immediately after the need for food, water, and sleep. Having a safe, secure environment in your home provides the safe haven necessary to weather adverse conditions. Having your house become your home (where it is designed to reflect the way you live) presents the opportunity to enhance on the most basic of needs.

If love and belonging, family, and friends are at the next level of need, wouldn’t you want to make sure that your shelter is meeting the needs of your family? We are committed to providing not only significant improvements to your home, but also the small everyday repairs that homes require as well as routine maintenance. Thankfully, I can say that many who will receive this blog are blessed with homes where they can comfortably “shelter in place” from the elements and virus alike. In our community, we acknowledge that we are blessed with good shelter and we offer gratitude for the opportunity to personalize and enhance our habitations. Stay safe, stay home.