Context
Η Interior Architecture studies and shapes the human relationship with the man-made spaces in which people live, work, and operate throughout their lives. At its core is the interaction between humans and space, with the goal of creating environments that respond to the functional, aesthetic, psychological, and social needs of users.
Modern critical spatial practice develops in three interconnected dimensions:
- the natural space, meaning the perceived environment,
- the mental space, which encompasses space as it is conceived, designed, and organized, and
- the social sphere, where human activities, relationships, and communication take place.
Interior Architecture is also defined through the concept of spatial planning, which includes the space of the built environment, the ephemeral spaces that are created and temporarily altered, as well as the metaspace, which exists exclusively in digital format.
The profession
Ο Interior Architect It contributes substantially to the shaping of the man-made environment, creating spaces that combine aesthetic quality, functionality, and sustainability. Through design, it produces integrated spatial experiences that respond to contemporary human needs and enhance the quality of daily life.
The practice of the profession is based on a deep understanding of human needs, desires, and behaviors, taking into account the spatial atmosphere, safety, prosperity, and well-being of the users, with a continuous responsibility toward the sustainable development of the built environment.
Η Interior Architecture It is a scientific and professional field that interacts with design, art, and the applied arts, while at the same time being part of and operating within the broader field of architecture.
The Interior Architect
The cultural, social, and environmental perception, combined with the research approach, constitute fundamental prerequisites for the practice of Interior Architecture. The Interior Architect designs and shapes environments that support, upgrade, and enrich human activities.
The design methodology is based on the addition, integration, and gradual adaptation of individual elements as tools for developing the design concept, exploring alternative solutions, and shaping the final form of the space.
The professional practice of Interior Architecture often concerns the transformation of existing buildings and spaces. In these cases, the adaptive reuseand the knowledge of architectural strategies are essential prerequisites for the successful redesign and upgrading of the existing built environment.
At the same time, Interior Architecture is an integral part of new building design, where effective collaboration with professionals from different disciplines is crucial for the successful implementation of every project.
The design process is based on critical thinking through design (design thinking), in creative exploration and in the continuous reassessment of established concepts and solutions. Creativity, although not listed as a standalone professional competency in Chapter 6 of this framework, is considered a fundamental characteristic of the profession and runs horizontally through all the required knowledge, skills, and competencies of the Interior Architect.