Journal of Interior Design and Academy

Evaluating Biomaterials in Furniture Design Through Sustainability

Ayşenur Kandemir, İpek Fitoz — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The present study examines the use of biomaterials in furniture design, focusing on innovative material applications within the framework of sustainability and circular economy principles. The subject of the research encompasses the integration of biomaterials such as mycelium, sawdust-based biocomposites, and bioplastics into design practices and evaluates their potential in terms of industrial scalability, reuse, and recyclability. The aim of the study is to reveal how biomaterials are utilized in furniture design, to analyze their environmental impacts and their relation to the Sustainable Development Goals, and to generate guiding insights for future design processes. The significance of the research lies in the fact that, considering the high raw material consumption and environmental impacts of the furniture industry, biomaterials present ecologically responsible, innovative, and applicable alternatives. The findings demonstrate that biomaterials hold the potential to reduce environmental impacts in furniture design while fostering innovative design languages and production methods.

A Systematic Review of Experience Processes in Spatial Material Experience Studies

Kübra Aksoy Özler, Aysen Özkan — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Material is one of the most important factors that determines the identity of a designed product or space. Material experience influences both design and user perception through user interaction. The aim of this study is to examine publications focusing on spatial material experience, revealing the methods applied in this field, the types of materials used, sensory approaches, and evaluation methods. In this study, conducted using qualitative research methods, 30 publications in the relevant literature were analyzed in detail. The results of the analysis revealed that the most frequently preferred material type in the studies was wood, the presentation form was spatial applications, the sensory experience was visual, the measurement method was descriptive testing, and the content evaluation was perceptual evaluation. Based on these findings, a framework is proposed that will contribute to the field for researchers, designers, and practitioners working on spatial material experience.

Formal and Semantic Analysis of Gümüşhane Zilli Rug Motifs

Ayşegül Çelenk Çavdar, Şule Sinem Sürdem — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Throughout history, societies have imbued their craft products with symbolic meanings through motifs, both as a means of expressing their cultural identities and as a way of transmitting them to future generations. This study examines the Zilli Kilim, a geographically indicated and regionally distinctive textile produced in the Kelkit, within the broader framework kilim culture. Building upon the formal and semantic classification of motifs commonly found weaving traditions, the research aims to interpret this singular example within the general context of Anatolian textile heritage rather than in isolation. The findings indicate that, semantically, the Zilli Kilim sustains the fundamental characteristics of the Anatolian weaving tradition, while formally it reflects distinctive symbolic interpretations derived from the beliefs and lifestyles specific to the region. By revealing the cultural meaning-making process embedded in Zilli Kilim motifs within the weaving tradition, this study seeks to contribute to the preservation and documentation of local identity.

Utopia in Architecture: Mobility in Conceptual Designs of the 21st Century

Emirhan Avcı, İsmail Emre Kavut — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Architectural literature often associates utopia with fixed forms, yet 21st-century ecological and demographic crises problematize permanence. This article examines conceptual designs within the context of mobility, investigating how they redefine it as a spatial solution for global challenges. Adopting a qualitative research approach, the study explores mobile settlements located underground, on the sea, in the sky, and in outer space. Through selected case studies, the impact of technological integration on life cycles, the flexibility potential of modularity, and the relationship between design and environmental context are comparatively analyzed. Findings indicate these designs focus heavily on sustainability, modularity, and technological integration. The proposed models offer solution-oriented approaches to contemporary issues like the climate crisis, resource depletion, and population growth. Consequently, mobility emerges as a vital functional spatial solution, offering valuable insights for future architectural projects.

History and Gastronomy in Azerbaijan: The Shirvanshahs Museum Restaurant Interior Experience

Salih Salbacak — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study analyzes how Azerbaijan's historical development, architectural evolution, and food culture have shaped its cultural identity. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the architectural stratification of Baku, the cultural significance of Azerbaijani cuisine, and the unity of history, gastronomy, and interior experience through the example of the Shirvanshahs Museum Restaurant. It also aims to explain the role played by gastronomic continuity, and interior space experiences in bringing Azerbaijan's cultural heritage to the present day from an interdisciplinary perspective. A qualitative research approach adopted in the study, and a literature review method was used to reveal historical development. The interior evaluation of the Shirvanshahs Museum Restaurant was carried out based on the analysis of spatial characteristics, aesthetic elements, and cultural experience components. All these data aim to reveal the multi-layered structure of Azerbaijan's cultural identity within the triangle of interior design, and gastronomy from a holistic perspective.

Playgrounds and Interactive Space Design Supporting Child Development

Işık Öyküm Öztürk, Belis Öztürk — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Play evokes different emotions across all age groups and, for children, functions not only as entertainment but as a fundamental tool supporting physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. However, in many game and toy fairs, children’s participation remains limited and users are often positioned as passive observers. This study examines existing game and toy fairs in terms of child participation, spatial configuration, and user experience, and proposes an interactive fair stand design that enables children to actively participate. The research adopts qualitative methods based on document analysis and literature review, evaluating selected fairs in Türkiye and abroad through the child–space–play relationship. Based on the findings, a stand model is developed that removes rigid boundaries, incorporates fluid play areas, and allows children to explore, interact, and engage in creative processes. The study offers a child-centered spatial design approach emphasizing experience and participation.