Interior
In terms of the built environment, the term ‘interior’ refers to the internal space of a building or structure. Any part of a building or structure that physically separates an interior from the external environment may be referred to as an ‘enclosure’. For more information, see Principles of enclosure.
Building interiors are sometimes planned and designed by interior designers. Interior design is sometimes perceived to be a matter of interior decoration, but in fact, it is a complex subject that often involves working alongside other professionals, such as architects and engineers, as part of a larger project.
Components of interiors might include; furniture, fixtures, fittings, finishes, equipment, lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and so on.
Interior design requires detailed knowledge of:
- Design styles.
- Spatial design.
- How people are affected by their environments.
- Construction and materials.
- Regulations and approvals.
- Procurement and project management.
- Technical matters such as acoustics and lighting, and increasingly, technologies such as audio visual equipment and ITC.
- Sustainability.
- The role of other consultants.
An important part of designing interiors is space planning. This is used to determine how a space (or spaces) should be laid out and used. This may be undertaken as part of the building design process, or as a stand-alone exercise looking at how best to plan an existing space, or a space that is being developed (for example, a tenant determining how to fit out their part of a new development). It can be used for very simple spaces such as hotel bedrooms, through to very complex industrial buildings. Good space planning can improve the wellbeing and productivity of the occupants of a space.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.