The purpose of this study was identifying the essential concept of home of middle class and aged housewives by using a critical incident methodology. All 30 subjects participated in structured interviews designed to elicit statements describing the attributes of home and non-home environment. The qualities of comfort, place-attachment, self-expression, fundamental values and personal identity, social relationships, economic value, and a suitable physical structure were associated with home environments, and were absent in residences which were not regarded as homes.