The Toronto Star recently published an interesting article about the Mini. More practical and lower-priced competitors repeatedly lose to the Mini because the Mini stands on its own as a brand and has a strong personality. People who buy with their hearts will go after a product that speaks to them and suits their personality, instead of a more practical, yet stuffy, option. Read about it here.
We love applying this principle in the new home industry, by creating emotional products that speak to people. Products with personality will always win.