Integrating Textile Waste in Interior Design for Sustainable Furnishings: A Case Study of a Cafe Library

Abstract

This paper explores the integration of textile waste in interior design, focusing on sustainable furniture and decorative elements. With growing environmental concerns, the demand for eco-friendly practices in the industry is increasing. This research investigates methods for repurposing textile waste and the role of eco-friendly resins in creating durable, aesthetic furniture pieces. A cafe library is the case study for developing design prototypes incorporating textile waste, presenting innovative, sustainable solutions for the interior design industry.

Introduction

I. INTRODUCTION

A. Interior Design in the Context of Sustainability

The art and science of designing places that meet human requirements is known as interior design. Sustainability has become a top priority in the profession in recent years, emphasizing environmentally friendly products and procedures. To showcase innovative methods for repurposing used textiles in furniture and decorative finishes, this paper presents the potential of textile waste as a feasible material for sustainable design.

B. Library as a Conceptual Foundation

Libraries are carefully planned places with educational materials, which makes them perfect for incorporating creative design ideas that reflect local ideals. The specific spatial requirements of a library, such as lighting, acoustics, and seating, align with the objectives of sustainable design. Public and school libraries, as well as digital and mobile libraries, are examples of libraries that are versatile, useful places that can profit from long-lasting, sustainable resources.

C. The Cafe: A Multi-Functional Space

A cafe serves as a social hub, offering a relaxing environment for socializing, working, and cultural gatherings. Diverse cafe types—such as coffee shops, tea houses, and cultural cafes—can adopt textile waste as a material, supporting both aesthetic and functional design. This research focuses on combining cafe and library elements into a cohesive, sustainable space.

II. LITERATURE REVIEW

A. Overview of Textile Waste and Interior Design

Flexible materials consisting of synthetic or natural fibers, and textiles are important for creative and cultural expression. Nonetheless, textile waste is a major source of pollution in the environment. Pre- and post-consumer trash, industrial waste, and hazardous or non-recyclable waste are all produced during the production and usage of textiles.

B. Previous Studies on Textile Waste in Interior Design

Previous research has examined a range of uses for textile waste. Smith (2020), for instance, highlighted the advantages of sustainable fabrics for the environment.

• Johnson (2021) displayed furniture made from repurposed textiles.
• Patel (2022) promoted circular design concepts while talking about the potential of textile waste in furniture design.

The use of textile waste for furniture and ornamental accents in a unified area, such as a café library, has not yet been thoroughly investigated in this research.

C. Research Gaps

Gaps in consumer understanding, material performance, and practical execution in interior design are highlighted in the literature. Furthermore, in order to bridge the gap between environmental science and design and promote useful, sustainable interior design solutions, an interdisciplinary approach is required.

III. PROBLEM STATEMENT

A. Textile Waste Management as a Sustainable Solution

Promoting environmental responsibility in interior design requires effective textile waste management. Waste textiles can be recycled and upcycled to create beautiful, useful furniture that appeals to eco-aware customers.

B. Upcycling Textile Waste in Interior Design

Through upcycling, used textiles can be creatively transformed into decor, wall coverings, and upholstery. This method reduces waste and adds distinctive character to areas.

C. Exploring Innovative Materials from Textile Waste

Interior designers have new options thanks to innovative materials made from textile waste. By use of sophisticated processing methods, textile waste can be converted into superior materials for interior design, expanding the selection of sustainable choices.

IV. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

A. Aims

1. To advocate sustainable practices in interior design through the use of textile waste.
2. To explore innovative uses for textile waste in furnishing and decorative elements.

B. Objectives

1. Assess types and quantities of textile waste for repurposing potential.
2. Develop interior design concepts that integrate textile waste.
3. Test materials for durability and functionality in interior applications.

V. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS

A. Scope

1. Types of Textile Waste: Focusing on off-cuts, damaged fabrics, and discarded garments.
2. Interior Design Applications: Exploring applications in upholstery, wall coverings, and decor.
3. Sustainability Metrics: Evaluating environmental impact through waste diversion rates and resource conservation.

B. Limitations

1. Material Availability: Sourcing limitations in Bhopal, M.P., India.
2. Consumer Acceptance: Limited by client needs for a cozy cafe library.
3. Technical Constraints: Use of tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Photoshop for prototyping.

VI. METHODOLOGY

1. Material Sourcing: To guarantee constant, high-quality textile waste for prototypes, materials will be sourced from nearby manufacturers, secondhand shops, and recycling facilities with assistance from partnerships.
2. Concept Development: Design concepts centered on comfort, sustainability, and inventiveness will be established through mood boards and sketches, which will also look into methods to repurpose textile waste in furniture and décor.
3. Design Planning: Furniture and décor manufactured from textile waste will have their floor plans, color palettes, and material selections described with a focus on practicality, longevity, and aesthetic balance.
4. Prototyping: Using methods like patchwork and weaving, prototypes will be built, including furniture and ornamental tiles composed of textile waste and environmentally friendly resin.
5. Implementation Strategy: A budget and schedule will direct the procurement of materials, the development of prototypes, and the completion of the design, taking into account the logistical requirements for the integration of textile waste.
6. User Experience Testing: To evaluate functionality, comfort, and aesthetics, prototypes will be put through user testing; resulting input will guide final modifications.
7.  Sustainability Assessment: Every item will be assessed for its lifecycle, possibility for upcycling at the end of its useful life, and environmental impact.
8. Documentation and Presentation: Research, design concepts, and prototypes will be presented at the end of the process, with each step being illustrated with photographs, sketches, and notes.

VII. EXPECTED OUTCOMES

A. Innovative Design Concepts

Sustainable design ideas that use textile waste in furniture and décor are anticipated to be produced by the initiative.

B. Material Database

Future design initiatives will benefit from an extensive database of textile waste materials that offers information on their characteristics, uses, and sources.

C. Sustainability Metrics

The benefits of repurposing textile waste for the environment will be measured by metrics like waste diversion and carbon footprint reduction.

D. Consumer Insights

Future design and marketing initiatives will be supported by insights into consumer preferences and perceptions of recycled textile products.

E. Collaborative Framework

The best ways for designers, manufacturers, and environmental organizations to work together to promote sustainable interior design practices will be outlined in a framework.

Conclusion

This study highlights the advantages for the environment of repurposing textile waste in interior design, particularly when it comes to building comfortable and useful areas like a café library. By offering distinctive aesthetic value and reducing waste, repurposing fabrics for interior design applications opens up eco-friendly design to a wider audience. In addition to supporting the circular economy model in interior design, this study emphasizes the value of interdisciplinary cooperation in advancing sustainability within the sector.

References

This study highlights the advantages for the environment of repurposing textile waste in interior design, particularly when it comes to building comfortable and useful areas like a café library. By offering distinctive aesthetic value and reducing waste, repurposing fabrics for interior design applications opens up eco-friendly design to a wider audience. In addition to supporting the circular economy model in interior design, this study emphasizes the value of interdisciplinary cooperation in advancing sustainability within the sector.

Copyright

Copyright © 2024 Pallavi Jhariya, Shucheta Nigam. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.