The goal of space planning is to create efficiency.

• Space planning includes blocking out interior spatial areas.

• Defining circulation Patterns
• Developing plans for furniture layout and equipment placement.

Considerations
• Do the spaces have specific functions or need to be particular shapes or forms?
• Do the spaces need to be flexible?
• Is it possible to create a logical and specific sequence of spaces?
• Do the spaces have different requirements in terms of light, ventilation, view, accessibility, acoustics, security?
• Do the spaces need to have access to outside spaces?
• What relationships must each space have with one another, and the external environment?
• How should the spaces be connected? Open plan, corridors?
• Which rooms need to be adjacent to one another and which rooms need to be apart?
Spatial Relationships
How can spaces be related to one another?
• Space within a space
• Interlocking spaces
• Spaces linked by a common space
• Adjacent spaces
 Set of dynamic, residual spaces within the larger space.

• A large space can envelop and contain a smaller space

within its volume.
• Visual and spatial continuity between the two spaces
• Smaller, contained space depends on the larger,
enveloping space for its relationship to the exterior
environment.

Indicate a functional difference between the two spaces or the

symbolic importance of the contained space.
 The interlocking portion of the two volumes can be shared equally by each space.

The interlocking portion can merge with one of the spaces and become an integral part of its
volume.

• overlapping of two spatial fields and the emergence of a zone of shared space.
• When two spaces interlock their volumes in this manner, each retains its identity
and definition as a space.
• But the resulting configuration of the two interlocking spaces is subject to a
number of interpretations.

The interlocking portion can develop its own integrity as a space that serves to link the two
original spaces.
 The separating plane may:

• limit visual and physical access between two adjacent spaces, reinforce the individuality
of each space, and accommodate their differences.

• appear as a freestanding plane in a single volume of space.

• be defined with a row of columns that allows a high degree of visual and spatial continuity
• Adjacency is the most common type of spatial relationship. between the two spaces.
• Each space to be clearly defined and to respond, each in its own
way, to specific functional or symbolic requirements.
• The degree of visual and spatial continuity that occurs between two
adjacent spaces depends on the nature of the plane that both
separates and binds them together.

• be merely implied with a change in level or a contrast in surface material or texture between
the two spaces.
 The two spaces, as well as the intermediate space, can be equivalent in size and shape and
form a linear sequence of spaces.

The intermediate space can itself become linear in form to link two spaces that are distant from
each other, or join a whole series of spaces that have no direct relationship to one another.

• Two spaces that are separated by distance can be linked or related to each other by a The intermediate space can, if large enough, become the dominant space in the relationship,
third, intermediate, space. and be capable of organizing a number of spaces about itself.

• The visual and spatial relationship between the two spaces depends on the nature of
the third space with which they share a common bond.

• The intermediate space can differ in form and orientation from the two spaces to
express its linking function.

The form of the intermediate space can be residual in nature and be determined solely by the
forms and orientations of the two spaces being linked.
Organizing the space Consider some of the following in planning out
spaces:
You can consider a varying forms of spatial organization,
some of which are more naturally suited to particular uses • How does the envelope affect the internal spaces?
than others: • How will the contents of the room be arranged?
• Centralized organization • Do the rooms connect?
• Linear organization • What is the flow of the circulation?
• Radial organization • Are the proportions of the spaces comfortable?
• Clustered organization
• Grid organization Developing Circulation
How people move around the building from room to room
is just as important as the destination.
When developing a circulation structure we can look at a
few basic principles.

• How efficient is the circulation in getting from point A to

point B
• Is the circulation discrete?
• What is the fluidity of the circulation? Is there a smooth
flowing route or a more direct route?
• Does the circulation route clash with furnishing
requirements?
 Relationship diagram

Once the spaces have been considered and the

The bubble diagram helps make the connection between basic
requirements have been studied - sketching out
spatial requirements and a fully drawn out floor plan.
relationship diagrams.
It is a trial and error method of exploring configuration and
The relationship diagram takes the design from existing as
relationship options.
'data' to a more visual look at physically planning out
As sketch diagrams develop you can begin to build a rough
space.
plan of the project spaces, this is known as 'bubble
It is abstract, and rough
diagramming'.
Enables you to develop an understanding of the
If you are working within the constraints of an existing building
requirements and visualize how the spaces will work
you can print out the floor plan and work on that.
together and how the circulation may flow between them.
During this process it is important to keep referring back to the
At this stage the diagram does not need to represent the
initial data collected and the relationship diagram to ensure
building size or space, more a look at how each room
you are considering all aspects of the design requirements.
relates to one another, sizes and so on.
SPACE ORGANIZATION
• Spatial Organization is a way to tie the spaces together to create a collective and organized whole. This can
be done both on the micro-level with the floor plan zoning and circulation and at the macro level on the
site.
Spatial organization can aid in problem-solving to come up with effective design solutions.
•Climate considerations and zoning based on the needs of the site.
•Site-level future expansion considerations.
•Access paths and circulation needs of the site.
•Privacy and security of the spaces on the site.
•Functional segregation of spaces in the design.
•Dimensional requirements of each space.
•Site context and the surrounding environment.
•Organization based on the significance of each space.

Ar. SONA KRISHNAN | INTERIOR DESIGN |KMCT CAK

PRINCIPLES OF SPACE ORGANIZATION
1) BALANCE 2) PROPORTION AND SCALE
• Consider symmetrical and asymmetrical balance, as
well as radial balance, to create a sense of equilibrium. •Proportion refers to the relationship between different
•Symmetrical Balance: Mirrored or evenly repeated elements elements in a space (e.g., the height of a chair in relation
on either side of an axis (common in formal spaces). to a table).
•Asymmetrical Balance: Different objects with equal visual •Scale considers the size of objects in relation to the
weight on either side, creating a more dynamic and informal space itself (e.g., using large furniture in a small room
feel. creates a cramped feeling)
•Radial Balance: Elements arranged around a central point,
creating circular symmetry (e.g., a round dining table with
chairs).

Ex:Jawaharlal kalakendra- Jaipur (Charles Correa) Ex:Indian Coffee House, Chandigarh (Le Corbusier)
3) ZONING AND FUNCTIONALITY
•Define distinct areas within a space for specific activities, using
furniture placement, rugs, or wall treatments to delineate
zones.

•Ex: Open floor plans with designated zones for cooking,

dining, and relaxation, separated by furniture placement or
subtle partitions, are common in modern Indian apartments.
4) SPACE PLANNING 5) LIGHT AND VENTILATION FLOW
•A well-balanced interior needs a harmony of both •Maximize natural light and use artificial lighting
positive and negative space. Overcrowding leads to a effectively to create a bright and inviting space.
cluttered feel, while too much negative space can make a •Proper organization ensures light reaches key areas and
room feel empty or sterile. enhances the mood.
•Positive Space: The area occupied by objects •Ventilation is considered when placing windows, doors,
(furniture, décor, etc.). and vents to promote air circulation and comfort.
•Negative Space: The empty areas around and
between objects.

Different ways for

lightining in interior space
6) EMPHASIS 7) Rhythm and Repetition
•Highlight focal points within a space to draw attention and • Use repetition of elements (colors, patterns, shapes) to
create visual interest. It could be a fireplace, artwork, feature create a sense of movement and flow.
wall, or statement furniture. • Using the same wallpaper or fabric in multiple rooms or on
•Organizing the space around a focal point creates visual different pieces of furniture, same color in different shades
interest and hierarchy. or tones throughout the space. ,, same shape in different
sizes or orientations. , same style of furniture or lighting
fixtures throughout the space. , Using a series of repeating
elements (e.g., lamps, artwork) to guide the eye through a
space. , Arranging elements around a central point to create
a sense of rhythm and focus.

Ex: Kandalama hotel , Geoffery Bawa

• A sculpture of a bird in flight on the landing.
•A wall mural of birds soaring upwards, enhancing the
verticality of the stair.
8) Proximity and Adjacency 9) Circulation and Flow
• Circulation refers to the movement of people through a
•In interior design, adjacency refers to the relationship and space, while flow encompasses the overall ease and
proximity between different rooms or spaces, while naturalness of that movement, including visual connections
proximity is the closeness of one space to another, both and spatial relationships. A well-designed layout prioritizes
crucial for functional and practical layouts. both, ensuring functionality and creating a cohesive,
•Improved functional design. comfortable environment.
Types of Circulation:
•Enhanced usability.
•Better traffic flow. • Linear: A straight path, often used for corridors or
hallways.
•Clearer communication between
• Radial: Paths branching out from a central point.
designers and clients.
• Grid: A network of intersecting paths.
•More cohesive design outcomes.
• Network: A complex system of interconnected paths.

Ex: Example: In a residential layout, bedrooms are

often located away from public areas (living room or
kitchen).
 10) Light and Shadow 11) Privacy and Transparency
•Light and shadow are crucial for creating atmosphere, • In interior design sketches, balancing privacy and
highlighting features, and defining zones, with the play of transparency involves thoughtfully using materials, layouts,
light and shadow adding depth, texture, and visual interest to and visual cues to create spaces that are both open and
a space. private, depending on the intended function. This can be
achieved through techniques like strategically placed
•Natural Light: Maximize natural light by strategically placing partitions, varied window treatments, and the use of
windows and considering their orientation. translucent or opaque materials.
•Artificial Light: Layer artificial light sources (ambient, task, Strategic Layout:
and accent lighting) to create a flexible and inviting space.
a) Zone Separation: Designate specific areas for different
•Shadows: Shadows can add depth, create drama, and activities, using partitions or furniture to create visual and
highlight architectural details. physical separation.
b) Flow and Connectivity: Maintain a sense of openness and
flow between spaces while still providing privacy in areas
like bedrooms or bathrooms.

Material Choices: Translucent Materials, Opaque Materials,

Adjustable Solutions

Window Treatments:Curtains and Blinds, Shades and

Shutters
ANTHROPOMETRY AND ERGONOMICS •Anthropometry is divided into two types:
i. Static (Structural) Anthropometry (Ergonomics): Human
•Anthropometry is the science that measures the range of
body measurements when the subject is still. The
body sizes in a population. When designing products it is
measurements when the body is kept in a fixed position, i.e.,
important to remember that people come in many sizes and
static, such as height, joint to joint, BMI, Skin folds, etc.
shapes. Anthropometric data varies considerably between
ii. Dynamic (Functional)Anthropometry: Human body
regional populations. For example, Scandinavian populations
measurements that are taken when the subject is in motion
tend to be taller, while Asian and Italian populations tend to
related to the range and reach of various body
be shorter
movements,e.g. squatting height, overhead reach, and the
range of upper body movements.
Ergonomic Considerations
• Ergonomics is the study of people in their working
environment, aiming to design or modify work to fit the
worker, minimizing discomfort and injury risks. It
encompasses physical, cognitive, and organizational aspects,
focusing on optimizing human-system interactions.
Constraints in Ergonomic Design
a) Physical Constraints: Physical constraints involve the
limitations imposed by the human body's structure and
function. These constraints may include factors such as
body size, range of motion, and physical strength. To
address these constraints, furniture, and equipment must
be designed to accommodate diverse body types and
ensure ease of movement
b) Psychosocial Constraints: Psychosocial constraints
encompass the psychological and social aspects of the
workplace environment. Factors like job stress, workload,
and interpersonal relationships can impact employees'
well-being and performance, especially in organizational
settings.
Human Interface: Selection and specification of materials, finishes, furnishing, and lighting to enhance user
experience and accommodate diverse needs.
• Any interior design project needs a lot of raw material to be
chosen. It is like preparing a delicacy, you need to add a lot of
things but in small and correct amounts. You need all sorts of
materials like wallpaper, flooring material, cladding material,
paint, hardware, sanitary fittings etc. to be chosen and fitted
on site.
Why material selection is needed ?
• Material selection is crucial in interior design because it
directly impacts a space's aesthetics, functionality, comfort,
and sustainability, ensuring a design is both visually
appealing and practical.

1. Aesthetics and Visual Impact:

• Creating a Mood- Materials like fabrics, wood, and stone can evoke specific emotions
• Adding Texture and Depth - Different materials offer varying textures and visual qualities, adding dimension and interest to
a space.
• Defining Style- Material choices, such as modern sleek surfaces or rustic natural elements, can help define the overall style
of a design.
2. Functionality and Practicality:
• Durability and Longevity- Selecting durable materials ensures that the design can withstand everyday wear and tear,
reducing the need for frequent replacements.
• Maintenance and Cleaning - Choosing materials that are easy to clean and maintain is essential for a functional and
comfortable space.
• Safety - Opting for non-toxic and fire-resistant materials is crucial for creating a safe environment for occupants.
• Space Optimization - Materials can be used to create storage solutions, enhance flow, and optimize space utilization.

3. Comfort and Well-being:

• Acoustics - Certain materials, like soft fabrics and textured surfaces, can help
absorb sound and create a more comfortable acoustic environment.
• Temperature Regulation -Materials with good thermal properties can help
regulate temperature and create a more comfortable indoor climate.
• Lighting - Materials can affect how light is reflected and absorbed, influencing
the overall ambiance of a space. Lighting in Interior
Accoustic panels

4. Sustainability and Environmental Impact:

• Eco-Friendly Choices - Choosing sustainable materials, like recycled or
renewable resources, can reduce the environmental impact of a design.
• Low VOC Emissions- Opting for materials with low volatile organic compound
(VOC) emissions can contribute to better indoor air quality.
• Long-Term Value - Sustainable materials can often have a longer lifespan,
reducing the need for frequent replacements and contributing to a more
environmentally responsible design. Sustainable
materials
Common Materials in Interior
Design
Natural Materials
Natural materials like wood, stone, leather, cotton, and
wool are a great choice in almost all design projects.

Wood: A versatile and warm material, wood is ideal for

furniture and decor, offering various grains and finishes.

Stone: Durable and elegant, stone adds unique textures

and sophistication to surfaces like countertops and walls.

Leather: A symbol of luxury, leather brings richness and

comfort, aging beautifully in items like upholstery.

Cotton: Soft and breathable, cotton is perfect for textiles,

providing comfort and hypoallergenic properties.

Wool: Known for its warmth and resilience, wool is great

for textiles and insulation, with excellent dyeing
capabilities.
Synthetic Materials
• Synthetic materials are produced artificially through chemical
processes, not derived from natural sources like plants or
animals.
• These materials, like plastics, synthetic fabrics, and synthetic
stone, can mimic natural materials or create unique textures
and designs. They are often chosen for high-traffic areas, easy
maintenance, and modern aesthetics.

•Plastic: Adaptable and lightweight, plastic is widely used for various Vinyl flooring
design elements, from furniture to decorative accents, available in
numerous colors and forms.
•Acrylic: Offering clarity and strength similar to glass, acrylic is utilized in
furniture, lighting, and decorative accessories, providing a contemporary
flair and resilience.
•Polyester: A staple in textiles, polyester is favored for its durability, easy
maintenance, and resistance to stretching and shrinking, ideal for
upholstery and window treatments.
•Vinyl: Known for its toughness and ease of cleaning, vinyl is popular in
flooring and upholstery, presenting an affordable option with diverse
design possibilities.
•Fiberglass: Renowned for its strength and lightness, fiberglass is
employed in furniture and architectural features, supporting innovative
and enduring design solutions.
Composite Materials
• Composite materials offer a range of benefits for interior
design, including enhanced strength, durability, and
lightweight options, while also providing aesthetic
versatility. They are often used in furniture, wall panels, and
other interior elements. Common examples include wood-
plastic composites (WPC), fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP), and
concrete. Particle board
•Plywood: Comprising layers of wood veneers bonded together, plywood
presents exceptional strength and stability, widely used in furniture,
flooring, and architectural elements.
•Particle Board: Made from compressed wood chips and resin, particle
board is an economical choice for furniture and cabinetry, offering a
smooth surface that can be covered with laminates or veneers.
•Fiber-Reinforced Concrete: Enhancing traditional concrete’s properties,
this composite includes fibrous materials to improve its tensile strength,
making it a versatile choice for panels, counters, and decorative items.
Fiber reinforced concrete
•Laminate: A multi-layer synthetic flooring product, laminate simulates
wood or stone with a photographic applique layer under a clear
protective layer, popular for its durability and ease of installation.
•Corian: A solid surface material that combines minerals and acrylic
polymer, Corian is non-porous, resistant to stains, and available in a
variety of colors and patterns, ideal for countertops, backsplashes, and
wall cladding.

Laminate Flooring Corian

Interior Finishes and Furnishings
• Interior Finishes: Interior finishes refer to the final surfaces and materials applied to walls, floors, ceilings, and other
structural elements to enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
Examples:
•Wall Finishes: Paint, wallpaper, wood paneling, tile, stone, and gypsum board (drywall).
•Floor Finishes: Hardwood, carpet, tile, laminate, and stone.
•Ceiling Finishes: Plaster, drywall, wood, and acoustic tiles.
•Other Finishes: Doors, windows, trim, and joinery.

Lighting in Interior
Accoustic panels

Sustainable
materials
Interior Finishes and Furnishings
• Interior Furnishings: Interior furnishings are the movable items like
furniture and décor used to decorate and furnish the space. furnishings
provide comfort and style.
Furnishings:
•Types:
•Furnishings can be divided into hard furnishings (like furniture)
• soft furnishings (like curtains, rugs, and upholstery).
•Purpose:
•Furnishings provide comfort, functionality, and style to a space, making it Hard Furnishings
livable and aesthetically pleasing.
•Examples:

•Hard Furnishings: Tables, chairs, beds, sofas, cabinets, bookshelves.

•Soft Furnishings: Curtains, rugs, pillows, cushions, upholstery.

Soft Furnishings