Environmentally Responsible Interior Design Education using Multi-Criteria Evaluation

Abstract

Abstract

This article examines challenges related to the changing interior design education methodologies as they relate to the implementation of a sustainable design strategy in the built environment. Students will be able to incorporate sustainability imperatives into their future professional practice and comprehend the relevance of a holistic approach to the current interior design process. The high performance of the space must be supported by a reduction in negative environmental effects and optimization of interior quality parameters that influence the well-being and contentment of the space's occupants. The methodology used a literature review for data collection, observation and discussion of articles to obtain the final results. The newest innovative and inspiring approach to contemporary education in this discipline is the incorporation of a set of determinants present in leading multi-criteria evaluation systems into the interior design teaching model, which would enable the verification of environmental issues concerning designed interiors during the programming, concept, and working drawings design phase. This would increase students' awareness of environmental issues and their relevance to their future professional practice. This paper explored and identified selection criteria for sustainable interior products and materials. It proposed five criteria covering designer and lecturer selection, healthier environment, reduced consumption, sustainable design components, and efficient design resource management. These criteria can effectively support responsible design education and interior designers in specifying and selecting sustainable design solutions.