Enneagram Four: The Individualist
Sensitive, Introspective, Reserved, Expressive, Emotionally Honest, Temperamental
Typically considered the most complex of all Enneagram numbers, Fours are the romantics. Emotional intuitiveness and empathy is their superpower. So what does this mean for their personal spaces? It means BIG, creative, unique design. Fours tend to feel a sort of "specialness deficiency"; a void that often makes them feel different, but because they are so emotionally in-tune, they sit with that void and use it to craft their identity ... they are okay with being different. Because of this, their spaces are driven by what they love, not by trends. Whether that be bright colors or bold patterns, these are definitely spaces that are one-of-a-kind.
A Four's space is often eclectic and personalized. This is where they can stand out and showcase their self-expression. What do you love? What colors and patterns are you drawn to? Two styles that I find Fours gravitating to recently are Granny-Chic and Victorian, mostly because they are seldom done. Flea markets and vintage shops are great places to go treasure hunting if you are Four. Chairish is a great online resource, as well as doing a deep dive into Ebay - but we're talking page 31 deep! Anywhere you can pick up non-conformist pieces will work.
Fours want to be surrounded by beauty. Wallpaper and curtains are a great way to introduce big, bold patterns that envelope the room. Moody lighting is critical for Fours. Start by turning off all the overhead lights and begin to layer in floor lamps, table lamps, sconces, candles, etc ... At the very least, overhead lighting should be on a dimmer switch. When it comes to furnishings, an upholsterer will be your best friend. Vintage frames repurposed with modern prints is what excites Fours.
What Fours mainly desire in their spaces is something that no one else has. These are often rooms that cannot be rushed and thrown together. If you are a Four, or designing a space for a Four, you need to be patient. Start with an idea, a "vibe" if you will. Then start with a space plan. This will help you tremendously when it comes to flea market shopping. I suggest you carry a tape measure in your purse or in your car, because when you're a Four, you never know where you will come across your next "must-have" piece. If you know the dimensions of the furniture from your space plan, you can begin to add to your collection along the way. As always, the best place to start is with your rug. That will help you set clear color palette boundaries. Cultivating a unique, beautiful space is easy, as long as you begin with the proper parameters in place.
I hope you found this post useful. Please share it with the Fours in your life. As always, if you need help along the way, book a free discovery call where we can talk more about your project!
xx- Natalie