The theory behind interiority is fleeting and difficult to define as it is an evolving concept that spans over many fields. For the purpose of this summary, Interiority will be identified and applied to interior design practices as a kick starter for conceptual ideas made by a designer and curated for a dweller who naturally creates meaning. Within interior design, interiority does not only relate to the physical parameters of a space and what exists within those outlines. It can exist within, but is not limited to, physicality and its constraints, social constructions, and technological advancements.[1] Conceptually, interiority is abstract and intertwined uniquely with each individual. In its easiest form of comprehension, boundaries can narrow the search for a definition of interiority. As explained by Petra Perolini (2014) “Boundaries define inclusion and exclusion and thereby define interiority”.[2] However, there is no necessary place of inside or outside to experience interiority. It revolves around the notion of “Abstract presence”, the living, dwelling and habitation of a conceptual space, whether that is physical, digital or social.[3] It is the unique and individual reality populated with memories, objects, immaterial qualities of being and existing. Interiority is not only just about the individual experience but also their presence in relation to space and the world.

Interiority can be used in a number of ways within interior design, including to encourage a certain behaviour within a space, to create a wholesome environment for a dweller catered to their needs and to house a particular space in that of an entirely different one, taking dwellers conceptually to another reality of perceived space.  Behavioural influence and interiority can be interconnected by the design of a space requiring certain indicators for how someone should function within that environment.[4] An example could be a library setting, where the seating and rows of shelving automatically set up the behavioural response of focus and quiet. The interiority of a client is the foundation of design and utilizing information collected on this interiority is necessary for an interior designer’s process as this understanding can elevate a designer’s vision and the dwellers living experience. Building a physical space that interconnects with a dweller’s interiority can ensure a safe and nurturing environment with the familiarity of one’s internal self being externalised into surroundings. Perolini (2014) unpacks the concept of interiority being housed within an already established place (Heterotopia) as a combination of physical and mental reality.[5]

Interiority can and must be applied to interior conception and design processes to create well rounded spaces that function according to the users needs and allows them to feel safe within a place. By using as many research methodologies as necessary to understand a client’s interiority, their values, rituals and habits, a designer can step into the client’s shoes and create a space of familiarity. The interiority of the client should be able to be clearly seen in the design of the space upon entry and should example a glimpse into the life of another through the visualisation of their private space.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Perolini, Petra. "Interior environments: The space of interiority." Zoontechnica–The Journal of Redirective Design 3 (2013): 1-5.

Perolini, Petra. 2019. “2656QCA IDE 1 Week 1 Lecture: Interiority.” Lecture notes. Brisbane, Australia: Griffith University. February 25, 2019. https://bblearn.griffith.edu.au/bbcswebdav/pid-4420092-dt-content-rid-51482712_1/xid-51482712_1

Perolini, Petra. 2019. “2656QCA IDE1 Week 2 Lecture: Interiority as a transformative concept.” Lecture notes. Brisbane Australia: Griffith University. March 4, 2019. https://bblearn.griffith.edu.au/bbcswebdav/pid-4435212-dt-content-rid-51952308_1/xid-51952308_1