* The house as a character with a past: The house could have witnessed significant historical events, murders, or family dramas, influencing its current state and the people who inhabit it. Its condition, creaks, and even the arrangement of its rooms could reflect its emotional state and reveal its "personality."
* The house as a victim or a survivor: The house could be affected by natural disasters, neglect, or even a sentient evil force. Its resilience or decay becomes a narrative arc.
* The house as a setting that drives the plot: The house itself could be a source of conflict, mystery, or even magical power. Secrets hidden within its walls, shifting rooms, or the appearance of ghosts could propel the story forward.
* The house as a metaphor: The physical state of the house could represent the emotional or mental state of its inhabitants, or even societal issues. A crumbling house could represent a decaying family or community.
Many successful stories utilize inanimate objects as central figures, imbuing them with personality and significance. The key is to find ways to make the house feel alive, to give it a voice (even if it's through imagery and symbolism), and to create a compelling narrative around its experiences and transformations.