The meaning of the dwelling consists of multiple layers, which makes it a complex concept. Therefore it should be dismantled (ref. Rapoport, 2001). This paper presents a conceptual framework in which settings, activities and values are systematically related. The data is derived from a telephone survey among 659 respondents in the Netherlands. This data offers insight into how different places in the dwelling are used, the way in which these different places are related to one another and which values people attach to activities in the dwelling. As such it reveals some of the patterns that constitute the meaning of the dwelling. The data show that: 1) The dwelling is a place to be together with family and friends; 2) The dwelling is a place to relax; and 3) The dwelling is a place to retreat from the outside world. Besides common patterns, the conceptual framework can also be applied to reveal differences in use and meaning between groups of people. For example, the meaning of the dwelling for people who live in a one or two person household emphasizes on the dwelling as a centre for leisure activities. This is reflected in values such as creativity and keeping busy. For people who live in a three or more person household, values like sense of safety and having time for one another are more prominent. As such the conceptual framework proves to be useful in dismantling the meaning of the dwelling.