Landscape Taste as a Symbol of Group Identity: A Westchester County Village

Abstract

OCIAL scientists have suggested that the landscape in which an individual lives is a major factor in his self-perception and in the image he presents to society.1 One should be able, therefore, to identify different socioeconomic groups on the basis of residential landscapes. This has been done often in order to differentiate income and ethnic areas;2 however, far less obvious social differences may also be expressed in residential landscape choices. This paper presents evidence that subtle variations in the landscape tastes of two groups of nearly identical, high socioeconomic status are significant indicators of group identity. Furthermore, the boundary of social networks between the two groups corresponds closely to the boundary between landscapes. An inventory of exterior residential landscapes of all of the 1 139 houses in Bedford Village, the study area, was taken in June, July, and August, 1971. The principal research tools were observation of the landscapes, examination of the membership lists of social organizations, and casual conversation with members of the social groups. Speaking with real-estate brokers proved to be especially valuable.