The Building Systems for Interior Designers Project

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Introduction

Building Systems for Interior Designers is a project aimed at helping interior designers understand the fundamental building systems that make a structure-function. These building systems entail the structure, envelope, site, and vertical conveyance. The structure of a building is the framework that supports the weight of a building and provides stability. This can contain components such as columns, beams, walls, foundations, and floors. The envelope of a building, on the other hand, is the physical barrier that separates the interior from the exterior environment. This includes components such as walls, windows, doors, and roofing. Elements such as foundation, drainage, and landscaping are also included in the structure-function. The vertical conveyance of a building is the system of elevators, escalators, and stairs that allow for the movement of people and goods between levels of the building. Each of these systems is essential for the successful functioning of a building and must be considered in the design process. Interior design, on the other hand, is a consideration of the collaboration between the aforementioned systems in a way that the finished project is comprehensive and efficient in fulfilling the role that it has.

The Senior Design project seeks to provide housing to the homeless population of our city. This goal is achieved by creating a structure that is safe, secure, and comfortable to inhabit. To construct this project, a variety of base building systems are incorporated into the design. These building systems include the structure, envelope, site, and vertical conveyance. The structure of the building provides the necessary support and stability for the building’s occupants. The envelope consists of the roof, walls, and flooring that enclose the four sides of the structure. The site is the physical location of the building, providing access to resources for the occupants, such as utilities, transportation, and services. Finally, the vertical conveyance system is composed of stairs and elevators that allow the occupants to move from one floor to another. All of these systems are essential components of the design project and must be carefully considered to ensure the safety and comfort of the homeless occupants.

One successful example of coordination between systems in interior design is the integration of sustainable architecture and green design. Sustainable architecture is the practice of designing and constructing buildings that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their life cycle. Green design is an approach to designing and building that takes into account the environment and natural resources, as well as the health and well-being of building occupants (Barbara, 2022). The successful integration of these two systems can be seen in the design of the San Francisco Federal Building (SFFB). The building was designed by renowned architect Thom Mayne and his firm Morphosis Architects and was completed in 2007 (US General Services Administration, 2021). It is an illustration of the combination between effectiveness and sustainability. The building is LEED Platinum certified and is one of the first LEED Platinum buildings in the U.S.

The SFFB is designed to reduce energy use, conserve resources, and create a healthier environment for occupants. Natural light is used to reduce energy consumption, and the building’s exterior is designed to reduce solar heat gain and glare. The building also features a sophisticated energy monitoring system and a stormwater collection system. The integration of sustainable architecture and green design proved to be successful in the SFFB, and this example has become a model for other projects. The integration of these two systems is a great example of how interior design can be used to create an environmentally conscious and resource-efficient building.

Base Building Systems

The Base Building Systems in interior design refers to the fundamental components of a building that contribute to its overall structure and provide its occupants with an interior space. These systems include walls, floors, doors, windows, stairs, and ceilings, as well as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and lighting. They are the building blocks that allow for the creation of a functional, aesthetically pleasing interior environment (Linda, 2022). Base building systems must be carefully considered to ensure that the space is properly equipped for its purpose and that the design is cohesive and unified. They are the foundation of a building and are the components that provide the framework, stability, and safety of the structure. The base building systems are composed of four main components: the foundation, walls, roof, and floor. The foundation is the most important part of the base building system and is responsible for supporting the other components. The walls provide the structure and support for the roof and floor (Linda, 2022). At the same time, the roof provides protection from the outside elements.

The floor is the finished surface of the building and is usually made of wood, tile, carpet, or other materials. The most common materials used for floors are hardwood, laminate, vinyl, stone, ceramic tile, and carpet. The choice of material depends on the area and the intended use. Hardwood is a popular choice for areas that need a classic look and feel, such as living and dining rooms. It is a durable and attractive option, but it can be expensive and difficult to install. Laminate flooring is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood, and it can be installed easily over existing floors. It is made of several layers of wood, plastic, and melamine, and it is available in a variety of finishes, colors, and textures (Haddard, 2018). Vinyl flooring is water-resistant and easy to clean, making it a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms. It is also available in a variety of colors and patterns. Stone and ceramic tile flooring are popular choices for bathrooms and kitchens. Stone is a durable and attractive option, but it can be expensive. Ceramic tile is cheaper than stone, and it is available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes. Carpet is a popular choice for bedrooms and family rooms, as it is soft and comfortable and provides insulation. It is available in a variety of textures, colors, and styles.

The materials used for ceiling systems depend on the desired look, budget, and the environment in which they are installed. Common materials used for ceiling systems include drywall, plaster, wood, metal, tile, and acoustic panels. Drywall is a popular material for ceiling systems because it is easy to install and provides a smooth, seamless finish. It is also cost-effective and available in a variety of textures and finishes to suit any design style. Plaster is a timeless material used in ceiling systems because it is durable and can be easily molded into ornate designs. It is also fire-resistant and provides excellent acoustic properties. Wood is a popular choice for ceilings because it adds warmth and character to a space. It can be stained or painted in a variety of colors and finishes to suit any design style. Metal ceilings are often used in commercial spaces because of their durability and low maintenance requirements. They are available in a variety of designs and finishes and can be an attractive addition to any interior (Haddard, 2018). Tile ceilings are an attractive option for bathrooms and kitchens because of their water-resistant properties. They are also available in a variety of colors, which allows for more design flexibility. Acoustic panels are a great choice for ceilings in commercial spaces or home theaters because they absorb sound and reduce echo. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used to create unique designs. Some of the features, including:

Foundation: The foundation is the most important part of a base building system. It is the base on which the entire structure will be built. It should be level, strong, and durable enough to support the weight of the structure and provide stability to the structure.
Framing: Framing is the skeleton of the building and is composed of the walls, floor joists, and roof trusses. These components are connected to form the basic shape of the structure.
Exterior: The exterior of the structure is the skin of the building and consists of the siding, windows, doors, and roofing materials. These components add to the aesthetics of the building and protect it from the elements.
Interior: The interior of the structure is composed of walls, floors, ceilings, and other fixtures such as cabinets, countertops, and appliances. These components provide the functional use of the building.
Utilities: The utilities are the systems that provide the power, heating, cooling, and plumbing to the building. These systems are essential for the comfort and convenience of the occupants.
Finishing Touches: The finishing touches are the decorative elements that add beauty and personality to the structure. These may include paint, wallpaper, trim, and accessories.

Senior Design Project

The Project is designed to give students the opportunity to design, create, and implement a project that solves a real-world engineering problem. The project requires the application of engineering theory, design analysis and synthesis, and communication, as well as teamwork and leadership skills (Linda, 2022). The course also allows students to develop their professional skills in engineering and project management. The course culminates in a final presentation, where the students present their project and its results to a panel of experts.

The current project addresses two vital aspects of system building for interior designs. Namely, with a focus on effective architectural decisions and sustainability, the building can align with the trend of establishing innovative yet safe and secure answers to current problems, such as a lack of homeless shelters. The project should focus on finding ways to provide shelter that is comfortable and addresses the needs of the homeless population seeking to address their living situation. This could include looking at different types of housing, such as temporary shelters, group homes, or permanent housing (Binggeli, 2016). The project should also consider the various social services that are necessary to support the homeless, such as job training, mental health services, and access to medical care. Moreover, the initiative is to consider the economic cost of providing shelter to the homeless. This could include looking at ways to reduce the cost of construction, as well as ways to fund the aim. The project should take into consideration the potential impact that the shelter homes could have on the surrounding area. Overall, the initiative should seek to provide a practical solution to the problem of homelessness by providing safe and secure shelter for those in need. With careful planning and collaboration, this project could be a successful way to address the issue of homelessness.

Precedent

An example of the concept of Base Building Systems efficiently incorporated into a project is the Shelter Home for the Homeless, which highlights the establishment of a welcoming and comfortable living environment for those in need. The building was designed by Javier Larraz in 2010 and is located in Spain (Shelter Home for the Homeless, n.d.). This building is made up of nine hundred and ninety-five square meters of living space and contains many features that make it an ideal place for a homeless shelter. The building is designed in a modern style with a focus on energy efficiency. The building utilizes energy-efficient materials and has a photovoltaic system installed to reduce the building’s energy usage. The building also has a green roof to help reduce the amount of heat that is absorbed by the building. Additionally, the building features a rainwater-collection system that allows the shelter to conserve water.

The base building’s structure material is concrete and reinforced steel bar, and the system is beam and girder. For vertical circulation, besides staircases, there are elevators, escalators, and ramps. The building envelope includes glass and aluminum slats. The site was chosen for its building function for the Homeless offers, beyond satisfying the needs of shelter and food for the residents. The building layout consists of a central communal area, a kitchen, a dining hall, a medical room, a library, and a recreational area. Private living spaces for the homeless are located along the perimeter of the building in order to provide adequate privacy and security. Circulation is organized around the communal area and is accessible through two main staircases and an elevator.

The interior of the building is designed with the goal of creating a warm and inviting environment for the inhabitants. The walls are painted in warm colors, and the furniture is comfortable and inviting. There is an abundance of natural light that is provided by large windows and skylights. The living spaces are designed to facilitate social interaction, with plenty of open space for people to gather and socialize. The building also includes a variety of amenities that make it a desirable place to live, including a library, a computer room, and a fitness room. Additionally, the building has a large kitchen and dining area, allowing for communal meals to be served. The Shelter Home for the Homeless is a great example of how thoughtful design can create a comfortable and inviting living space for those in need. By utilizing energy-efficient materials and incorporating a variety of amenities, the building provides a safe and comfortable environment for its inhabitants. This precedent study can provide valuable insight into how building systems can be used to create a home-like atmosphere in a shelter setting.

Rationale In Specifying the Plumbing and Lighting Fixtures

My rationale in specifying the plumbing and lighting fixtures was to ensure that the fixtures were of high quality, durable, and designed to meet the needs of the project. When specifying plumbing and lighting fixtures, it is important to take into consideration the overall design aesthetic of the space, as well as the functionality and practicality of the fixtures. For instance, selecting fixtures that are made from durable materials and designed for energy efficiency can help to reduce long-term maintenance costs. Selecting fixtures that are in line with the desired design aesthetic of the space can help to create a cohesive, aesthetically pleasing look. I wanted to make sure that the fixtures would last for years to come and provide the desired functionality (Haddard, 2018). Selecting fixtures that are in line with local building codes and safety regulations is essential for ensuring the safety of the occupants of the space. The plumbing fixtures that will be selected include toilets, showers, showerheads, trims, spouts, vanity sinks, kitchen sinks, and faucets. In regards to lighting, the selected option is a light system powered through solar panels to address the sustainability requirements set previously.

The Floor and Ceiling Systems

The floor systems we used in this project were a combination of concrete slabs and composite wood flooring. We chose this combination of floor systems due to their relative durability, cost efficiency, and ease of installation. The concrete slabs provide a strong and stable base for the flooring, and the composite wood flooring adds warmth and texture to the space. The composite wood flooring also provides a more soundproof flooring option, which is important in a commercial setting. Composite wood flooring is easier to maintain and clean than traditional wood flooring.

The suspended ceiling systems used in this project were Armstrong’s Tegular and Fine Fissured Torsion Spring Tegular ceiling tiles. We chose these ceiling systems because they offer an aesthetically pleasing and modern look, with a variety of color, texture, and size options. The Tegular tiles feature a unique, curved edge that creates a subtle, three-dimensional effect, while the Fine Fissured tiles provide a more traditional look. Both of these tiles are made from durable, lightweight mineral fiber and are designed to resist mold and mildew, making them an excellent choice for areas with high humidity or moisture (Binggeli, 2016). Both systems are easy to install and maintain, making them a cost-effective solution for a wide range of interior design applications.

How an Interior Designer can Help Achieve a Better and More Efficient Coordination of Different Building Systems

As an interior designer, my primary job is to create beautiful and functional living spaces that reflect my client’s personal style and taste. I start by discussing my client’s needs and desires and then create designs that meet those needs. I use my knowledge of color, fabrics, textures, and furniture to create a space that is inviting and comfortable (Haddard 2018). In addition to the design process, I also source the necessary materials, furniture, and accessories, as well as manage contractors to ensure the project is completed on time and on budget. My ultimate goal is to create a space that my clients will be proud to call home.

As an interior designer, I can work with other professionals to ensure better coordination of building systems. I can help create efficient designs by understanding the relationship between the different systems, such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing, and how they interrelate with the interior design. I can also help identify potential issues before construction begins, ensuring a well-coordinated system that functions properly and efficiently. Additionally, I can help design spaces to maximize efficiency and comfort, such as selecting the right materials, colors, and textures to regulate temperature, utilizing natural light, and creating comfortable and inviting spaces. With my knowledge of building systems, materials, and construction methods, I can help create an environment that is both aesthetically pleasing and efficient.

As an interior designer, I have a unique understanding of the various elements that go into designing a successful space. I understand the importance of incorporating architectural elements, such as the floor plan, wall and window placement, and interior finishes, as well as the importance of natural and artificial lighting (Binggeli, 2016). By understanding how these elements interact with each other, I can help ensure that the building systems are coordinated efficiently and effectively. For example, I can ensure that the lighting system and electrical requirements are considered when designing the floor plan and that the HVAC system is integrated into the overall design (Barbara, 2022). I can help to ensure that the plumbing and ductwork are laid out in a way that maximizes the efficiency of the building systems. In doing so, I can help create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and efficient.

Utilizing existing space efficiently is an important part of interior design and can be a cost-effective way to reduce the need for additional construction or renovation. By understanding and maximizing the potential of the space, designers can create a cohesive and efficient coordination of different building systems. This may involve rearranging furniture and fixtures, relocating walls, and making use of natural light (Linda, 2022). By utilizing the existing space, designers can create a more functional and efficient layout that works with the existing building systems, reducing the need for costly renovation and construction. Furthermore, good use of space can also help create a more comfortable and pleasing environment for occupants, making the most of the resources available.

Selecting materials, furnishings, and finishes that are durable and designed to work with the building’s systems is essential to creating a comfortable and efficient environment. Durable materials will help reduce the need for maintenance and repairs and provide a long-lasting solution for interior design. Furnishings should be chosen for their ability to withstand wear and tear, as well as their ability to fit into the design of the space (Haddard, 2018). Finishes should also be carefully selected to ensure they are appropriate for the environment and the desired aesthetic. Incorporating lighting, HVAC, and other systems into the design is also important to creating a comfortable and efficient environment. Proper lighting can create an inviting atmosphere, while proper HVAC systems can help regulate the temperature and air quality of the space (Binggeli, 2016). Other systems, such as acoustic panels and window treatments, can also be used to help control sound and light and create a more inviting and comfortable atmosphere. When all of these elements are incorporated into the design, it can help create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and efficient.

As an interior designer, it is important to understand the impact of the design on energy efficiency, air quality, and other environmental considerations. It is essential to work closely with architects, engineers, and other professionals to ensure that the design is appropriate and meets all building codes and regulations. To understand the impact of the design on energy efficiency, air quality, and other environmental considerations, interior designers must analyze the design to identify potential problems or areas that could be improved (Linda, 2022). This includes considering the materials used, the type of lighting and other fixtures, the size and layout of the space, and other factors. Interior designers should also research local building codes and regulations and consider how the design could affect energy efficiency, air quality, and other environmental considerations.

To ensure that the design is appropriate and meets all building codes and regulations, interior designers should collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to ensure that the design is appropriate and meets all legal requirements. This may include ensuring that the design complies with fire safety regulations, meets accessibility requirements, and complies with building codes and other relevant regulations (Ching, 2018). Interior designers should consult with sustainability experts to ensure that the design is energy efficient, reduces waste, and has minimal impact on the environment.

Moreover, another aspect that is to be taken into consideration as an interior designer is the Base Building Systems. Thus, the outer layer of the building that is designed to serve as a barrier is to be considered from the perspective of the project itself. Elements such as the materials for insulation, siding, roofing, windows, and doors are to be viewed from the perspective of the nature of the project (Barbara, 2022). On the one hand, their purpose remains to separate the interior and exterior environments, while, on the other hand, they are to be viewed from an aesthetic and functional perspective with the rest of the design. An efficient selection of the envelope allows the interior designer to address the needs for energy efficiency and security.

Conclusion

In conclusion, interior designers play an important role in creating spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and comfortable. Building systems for interior designers can help them to effectively communicate their vision to clients, collaborate with architects and contractors, and ultimately create the perfect space. With the right tools, an interior designer can create the perfect atmosphere that meets their client’s needs and desires. By using these systems, interior designers can also save time and money, making the process of interior design much more efficient. Ultimately, the importance of being an interior designer lies in the ability to create beautiful, inviting spaces that meet the individual needs of each client. Furthermore, knowledge of interior design helps understand the interconnection between the various systems, which allows for more efficient coordination in which elements fit the dynamic of the entire project.

References

Barbara, C. (2022). Mechanical systems. Sustainable Building Systems and Construction for Designers, 6(6), 81–100.

Binggeli, C. (2016). Building systems for interior designers, 3rd edition. Wiley.com. Web.

Ching, F. D., & Binggeli, C. (2018). Interior design illustrated. John Wiley & Sons.

Haddard, R. (2018). Research and methodology for interior designers. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 122, 283–291.

Linda, K. S. (2020). A case-based reasoning system for interior design using a new cosine similarity retrieval algorithm. Journal of Information and Telecommunication, 4(1), 91–104.

Shelter Home for the Homeless. (n.d.)

US General Services Administration. (2021). San Francisco Federal Building. GSA. Web.

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