I think it would be best if we tackle things at a reasonable pace and discuss thingamabobs (I think thingamabobs is a cool substitute word for stuff) one at a time. Defining Interior Design somewhat is a good start.
Dictionary Definitions (Once again, I’m not trying to be cheeky. I also just love dictionary definitions):
interior |inˈti(ə)rēər|
Definitions – 1. situated within or inside; relating to the inside, 2. existing or taking place in the mind or soul; mental
design |dəˈzīn|
Definitions - 1. a plan or drawing produced to show the look and function or workings of a building, garment, or other object before it is built or made, 2. the art or action of conceiving of and producing such a plan or drawing, 3. purpose, planning, or intention that exists or is thought to exist behind an action, fact, or material object
I took up Interior Design and it is defined in so many ways – ranging from academic descriptions to those of a more personal nature. My mental definition for it grows all the time, everyday. Interior Design is both an art and a science.
Art – it involves creativity, expression, style, it makes use of imagination.
Science – it has structure, it deals with limitations and probability, it has a good number of technicalities.
You may notice a mishmash of ideas above – this makes sense because Interior Design is a multidimensional profession. You combine various elements (furniture, textile, woodwork, lighting, anthropometrics among others), and work your way around it (existing considerations, budget, the building code, future considerations to name a few) thru your design process (research, site visits, drafting design plans among others) to come up with the best possible solution (good balance of form, function and aesthetics in the interior environment) and be able to accomplish your intended purpose (may it be meeting the needs of the clients or interiors achieving their utmost potential). Note: Being an Interior Designer is not an easy task.
Furthermore, Interior Design can be subdivided into various areas of specialization (such as residential, commercial and hospitality) and are associated with other professions (examples include Interior Decoration and Interior Architecture).
Living Room with a refreshing palette
Somber Kitchen (mixing and matching pieces)
I think that sums it up for now. These are just a few things that might come in handy (as a dinner topic or a conversation starter, who knows? I kid.) or something new to learn just because. I would like to leave you with this last statement (I am feeling insightful right about now). Interior Design is complex, it is beautiful. There is more to it than just reconfiguring furniture in a room or painting your walls yellow. Please take time to delve in its insides, its “interiors” (no pun intended). Acknowledge what it can do and is doing and you’ll be able to appreciate it.
P.S. I’ll eventually write a post about Interior Designers so that there is proper segregation of thoughts and posts. (Yep, I can be prissy about these things. Pardon me.)
