‘Aging’ of materials in Interior Architecture of
Adaptive reuse projects
Climatic and environmental conditions of humidity, moisture, air pollution, wind, and solar exposure all have a significant influence upon materials. Ageing processes are evident in a material’s decay, illustrating the temporal quality of all things physical. Aspects of ageing and weathering are vital considerations about
the specification of materials. As materials wear with use and weather over time, their properties will change. These considerations can directly influence the selection and specification of materials, which, in turn, influence the assembly and detail of larger interior components. Imperfections caused by age, use, and
weather can hold value.
Ageing of materials or products implies changes in the original state, but it does not necessarily only comprise deterioration or degradation. Ageing can also mean the formation of new substances and stabilisation. In some cases, this effect is desirable.
The interior production methods involve the basics of making space – the structure, the technology, and the materials. These work in harmony with one another to make one perceive the space as it is. The temporality of space is defined by time and its relationship with the built form. This research aims to analyse the effect of the ageing of materials in interior production methods and how it shapes the space. Technology advancement, materials, construction, and space-making have evolved over time. To observe the effect of ageing and weathering in spaces and the built environment, one needs to evaluate the materiality, space usage, and resulting visual perception.
Materiality, its properties and applications, and the technology used for and during construction are the measures through which we can interpret the impermanence of the space. Studying interior production methods from the past would help analyse the applications of materials, construction techniques, and space-
making.
Directed Research Project
Saumya Khimesara explores the value enhancement strategies of
ageing and weathering in interior architecture. It challenges the
prevailing belief that material ageing detracts from the value of
space and identifies different design approaches to value enhancement,
including Ruination. The study examines the application of Ruination
in contemporary interior architecture and evaluates the decay effect
on value enhancement. The research also highlights the emotional
connection and historical significance of aged and weathered
materials, arguing that such materials create positive emotional
responses from occupants and enhance the user experience. The study
emphasizes preserving the past and promoting sustainability by reusing
and repurposing materials.
