Emulating Ecosystems as a Basis for contemporary interior design: Lessons from Islamic architecture

Abstract

A serious concern nowadays is how the design of buildings internally and externally can utilize the natural ecological systems and adapt to the surrounding natural conditions functionally and aesthetically. In spite of the active role of architects to create many of the modern buildings that are emulating natures and inspired by organic shapes or using bio adaptive materials for reducing the embodied energy in buildings and for providing thermal comfortable, there is no clear conceptual basis for demonstrating a holistic connection of the interior design elements and the external physical conditions in their use of natural resources to not only consider the physical needs of the users but also to satisfy their spiritual needs. Islamic architecture as a concept has, from its inception, linked form and function to create a sense of ecological interior space, there is always a feeling of interweaving with the natural environment that was created based on a series of ecological-oriented principles. The aim of this research is to re-reflect the ecological values of Islamic architecture on the contemporary interior design elements which can affect the form and function of the space and interior elements. In addition to taking into account the concept of ecology in Islamic perception, this research will identify components of environmental and cultural aspects with contemporary methods.

Keywords

• eco-design; environmental interior design; islamic architecture; sustainability