General and Special Materials Selection Criteria for Interior Design Projects

Abstract

‎—In the field of interior design, materials are considered of the most important elements that play a vital role in the functionality of internal spaces.‎ ‎The selection of these materials according to clear criteria is considered one of the most important inputs guaranteeing the project's success and practical efficiency.‎ ‎In this context, this study aims to look into the general criteria for the selection of a material‎ according to previous studies, in order to explore and clarify the special criteria that should be adopted and implemented when selecting materials in the internal design project.‎ ‎This research work is mainly due to the researchers' observation of an evident lack in the quantity of information on the selection criteria of materials in the field of interior design, whereas most of what has been reported in numerous related studies‎ are information only showing the technical properties of the material, thus qualitatively limiting the designer's choices and the application of his creative ideas.‎ ‎This research in previous studies showed that there are general criteria for materials, which are essentially artistic, technical, functional, aesthetic, economic and environmental, that should be considered when choosing the material as a design element. This research also concluded the special criteria for the selection of materials as a design element and as an element listed as part of a group of elements that constitute a comprehensive aesthetic functional system reflecting solutions for the interior environment, which, in turn, reflects a range of sensory effects emanating through the material, shape, texture and color. ‎ ‎It is expected for the results of this research to assist those who work in the field of interior design from the academics who teach this discipline, the students, as well as the professional working at consulting and executive offices in the labor market, by providing them with the selection criteria for materials in interior design projects.‎  ‎