INT322KRM

 Typically walls are thought to be simple and more often than not, fairly bland. Most walls focus more on defining the space rather than bettering the space. But there is still so much that goes into them, not only in the way that they are constructed but also in the finishes they are covered in. There are three main types of wall construction. The first is a stud wall system. This is where wood or steel studs, typically between 2"x4" and 2"x6" are spaced 12", 16", or 24" apart and attached to a top and bottom plate. If a stud wall is an exterior wall, it is sheathed. Sheathing consists typically of either plywood or OSB is attached to the stud wall to resist wind loads. The space between the studs can be filled with insulation and the interior portions of the walls are covered in drywall. The second type of wall construction is concrete/masonry walls. These walls are typically bearing walls. These can often be challenging for interior spaces because ...

As interior designers working alongside architects to build real buildings, we need to understand at minimum the basics of constructing a building. Not only is it important to our designs but it also helps with communicating various ideas and plans to the people we are working with. Before understanding the construction of the actual building we must first understand where it is being built. The site is just as important as the building itself. It determines everything from the type of construction and foundations used to electrical and HVAC system usage within the building. Site consideration and analysis is very important when designing a building and its interior. How the sun interacts with the building is one of the biggest site considerations. Orientation of the building in relation to the sun can either be a help or hinderance in both heating and cooling, and interior lighting. In the northern hemisphere the sun is typically more prominent on the southern side of a building. This...

There has been a rise in the popularity of biophilic design. This is the incorporation of nature into the built environment we create around us. Biophilic design can be anything from something as simple as using plants and natural colors in the design to mimicking patterns and shapes found in nature (biomimicry). Biophilic design has many benefits in the field of architecture and interior design. Not only can it look aesthetically pleasing but it also has many benefits to the occupants of the space. It connects the interior with the exterior. It provides the shelter and space we need while keeping us connected to the world around us.  Connection to nature is a key aspect of life that we often forget about. It's common to be in nature for vacation but what if we were in it more? Studies have been conducted that show productivity increase and stress levels decrease when time is spent in nature. Biophilic design takes this into account. It recognizes the importance of our connection a...