Interior Architecture

Interior Architecture John Kurtich • Garret Eakin The School of the Art Institute of Chicago Increased specialization within the design professions has led to a growing separation of architecture, interior design, and the fine arts and limited the development of humanistic architectural space. This book of ideas helps to close this gap by explaining and illustrating principles of interior architecture that are based on a spatial point of view. The authors unveil the essence of ideas that generate physical form and space, as well as emphasize that interior architecture must be regarded as a union of disciplines. They focus on philosophical concepts that make up the history of interior architecture and juxtapose historical and modern examples to explain underlying design principles, exposing the links between art, architecture,and interior design. Particular attention is given to how fusion of interior architecture with other disciplines maximizes the potential of design to provide for human accommodation, comfort, and pleasure. Key topics discussed include three–dimensional development, respect for the enclosing architecture, sensitivity to human experience, the primacy of light and color, and furnishings as an extension of architecture. Case studies of historical, contemporary, and unbuilt examples reveal the reasons behind the creation of designs and the decision–making that accompanied execution of these designs. These examples provide insights into key specialities such as renovation, uses of the computer, and adaptive reuse. Quotes from artists, architects, and designers reinforce the philosophy revealed by the studies. Concepts from related fields such as physics, music, cinema, literature, painting, sculpture, and other fields are included to clarify the creative process. Among the important areas addressed are:

• The relevance of the fourth dimension as the most profound element of design
• How light as the quintessence of spatial definition has been used to define space by masters such as Le Corbusier, Kahn, Aalto, and Wright
• The evolution of retail, commercial, residential, and hospitality space from early examples to the present
• The emotional character of interior space established by color
• How furnishings in dialogue with the enclosure provide intimate human comfort
• How persisting styles express the spirit of the era

More than 400 photographs, including 57 in color, offer a stunning visual exploration of path–breaking interior design ideas over the centuries. Far more than a history of the discipline, this guide offers powerful images and provocative ideas that stimulate new ways of thinking about interior design. It is an essential resource for all interior designers, architects, and students.