Hayden uses the studies of influential feminists to contradict their views on the housing structure with that of the patriarchal ideology visible in the housing structure. It is through feminist studies that Hayden examines how housing represented a patriarchal ideology but, with changes, could reflect a woman's freedom from the home and required housework (Hayden, 1982). Examining the renovations/renovations conducted by the homeowners can be symbolic of the break away from what was socially acceptable for women and how they made their space work to fit their lifestyle and needs.