Little Sugar Creek Greenway, brick wall in Noda, Independence Square, Dilworth Church
Variety is the spice of life. I admit to starting with a cliché, but I’ll quickly redeem myself by noting the origins of this saying. It derives from a poem, “The Task” by William Cowper. The poem also mentions imagery of varied places from “opulent” London and “Saba’s spicy groves,” to a “rustic bridge,” monumental colonnade, and town and country.
Any place one resides similarly needs a diversity of places, which vary in scale, mood, and aesthetics. Quite simply, different people enjoy different things and our communities should be reflective of that inherent diversity. Variety also allows a place adaptability, and a richness that may not otherwise be achieved. It makes one further appreciate a place that would contrast from another one nearby. In this way each place is both appreciated in and of itself and acts as a foil to bring out the uniqueness of others.
I like that around my home in Charlotte, I can choose from a variety of neighborhoods that have their own character, each within a 5 mile radius. If I want a laid back, yet spontaneous and eclectic scene, I can head to NoDa, the historic arts district. The majority of businesses are housed in refurbished brick structures; some having been painted colorful colors like purple and green. Shops offering artwork and jewelry, and music venues often support the diverse local talent that also enliven the streets at night. Plaza-Midwood is another unassuming neighborhood which, similar to NoDa, is replete with small local restaurants, which I tend to prefer over the big chains. There are many charming Arts and Crafts bungalows located here on Thomas Avenue. The Metropolitan in Midtown has a more trendy and upscale feel with its modern high end shopping and dining, and an outdoor stage which hosts concerts. A lovely greenway is located nearby. Being the residential architecture afficionado that I am, I love driving around Dilworth to see the beautiful historic homes of varied styles such as Victorian and Colonial Revival, all framing lovely tree lined streets and boulevards. A portion of this characteristic neighborhood is registered as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. Three parks are scattered within 3 miles of my home, each having their own unique landscape as well. Binding all this together is uptown Charlotte, or the urban core of greater Charlotte which is located roughly in the center of surrounding neighborhoods.
I have been here for only a few weeks now, and am enjoying exploring these diverse neighborhoods nestled alongside one another, with an urban experience always nearby. If “Variety is the very spice of life, That gives it all its flavour,” this girl with eclectic taste is surely finding gusto here.
