Historical perspectives on interior architecture/design as a developing profession.

摘要

This study documents historical and evolutionary developments that created the demand for interior architecture/design as an academic discipline. As a component of architecture, interior architecture/design addresses interior environmental problems, both functionally and aesthetically. Delineation of the origin and development of Interior Architecture/Design provides a theoretical and historical base for Interior Architecture/Design as a valid field of study. Historical information related to the field has been fragmented in a variety of design movements, interior decorating, and industrial design resources. The lack of a synthesized historical and theoretical perspective has contributed to blurred distinctions of job titles and educational preparation in the field of designing interiors.;Since historical documentation specific to Interior Architecture is sparse, development of this study involved an extensive literature review describing historical developments in design movements that underpin the evolving Interior Architecture/Design profession. Interior Architecture/Design evolved from various design movements but also came from multi-disciplinary designers who referred to themselves as artisans.;Paralleling the study of design movements, this research reviews socio-economic transitions from an industrial to a service-oriented economy and the educational programs related to design and architectural fields. Philosophies, design movements, professional practice, and educational programs form a base for the study and practice of Interior Architecture/Design as an academic discipline. Technological, political, and economic factors, as well as environmental complexities, have created the need for Interior Architecture/Design.;This profession has attempted to emerge under a multitude of titles and academic pretenses. There are two major professions--often sharing the same title designation but with completely different goals, missions, and philosophies. Although these two professions clearly split a century ago, both Interior Decoration and Interior Architecture/Design have yet to emerge as separate, identifiable professions with clearly focused educational preparation programs. This study presents an organized body of information that will assist these professions in understanding their different missions and becoming two separate entities.