When evaluating materials for interiors, what criteria is considered alongside functional criteria and aesthetic criteria?

When evaluating materials for interiors, environmental criteria play a critical role alongside functional and aesthetic considerations. This includes assessing the sustainability of materials, their impact on indoor air quality, and their life-cycle analysis, all of which are vital in creating spaces that are not only beautiful and practical but also responsible and mindful of the environment.

Considering environmental criteria ensures that the materials selected do not contribute negatively to ecological degradation, thereby promoting a healthier planet and living environment. It involves evaluating factors such as whether materials are renewable, if they produce harmful emissions, and their energy consumption during production and transportation.

While economic, safety, and social criteria are also important in material selection, they do not encompass the broader implications of environmental impact that are increasingly essential in contemporary interior design practices. By focusing on environmental criteria, designers address the growing demand for sustainable practices in residential design, aligning their choices with global sustainability goals.