Interior Architecture Materials for Healthy Living Spaces

Architects are giving careful thought to factors like ventilation, sunlight, and biophilic design from the very beginning of the design process. It is important to select materials accordingly to avoid using health-harming contaminants.

It is important to detect the possible cause of indoor contaminants even before they harm residents. These harmful components come in different sizes, as they can be microorganisms like mould and fungi or allergens from animals and insects.

It is also possible that these unseen dangers in materials can be carbon monoxide (CO2) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in construction materials, household furnishings, and cleaning supplies.

Here are some of the harmful building materials and components that need to be avoided in interior architecture: 

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – these are substances that break down into gases. When exposed to air, it might trigger respiratory problems, shortness of breath, and even memory loss in susceptible individuals.

• Asbestos –Mesothelioma, Asbestosis, and other forms of cancer are all linked to inhalation of the material's fibres.

• Lead – If inhaled in excessive amounts, lead can pose a serious health risk.

• Formaldehyde – Asthma, rhinitis, dermatitis, and other respiratory illnesses can all be triggered by inhaling this chemical. 

• Chromated copper arsenate (CCA) – CCA can also be harmful as it can affect the brain, liver, lungs, reproductive organs, etc.

Knowing what to look out for, architects can use measures like adequate natural ventilation, exposure to natural light, and the presence of plants to reduce or eliminate the negative effects of potentially dangerous substances found inside.

With that, here are three materials that can promote interior architecture safety: 

    1. Embrace Biophilic Designs with Wood

Taking cues from the natural world, "biophilic" design prioritises the introduction of organic components into interior architecture. Materials like wood and mass timbers can be employed because of their natural, calming qualities. 

Wood's health benefits and ageless beauty are only two of its numerous utilitarian benefits. With all the different wood types and patterns, it can be used for carbon accounting, habitat protection, and local economic resiliency. Wood's potential to produce healthier, greener, and happier surroundings is why it is preferred.

    2. Utilise Sustainable Insulation Materials

Insulation controls airflow and temperature in healthy homes. Most homes were built with fibreglass insulation, which can cause respiratory difficulties and eye and skin irritation. But nowadays, natural materials like wool, cotton, cork, cellulose, and roots can be used as alternatives.

    3. Choose Water-based Natural Paints 

An additional factor to think about is the wall paint, which can breathe new life into a room and have a calming effect on its inhabitants. However, several choices produce long-lasting chemicals that are dangerous.

With the changes in the industry, water-based natural paints have also emerged. It won’t be 100% non-toxic, but it will be safer and more eco-friendly.