In the heart of Malaysia’s bustling interior design industry, a groundbreaking study is challenging conventional wisdom and paving the way for more inclusive and engaging spaces. Led by Jia Yi Choy, a recent graduate from the School of Housing, Building and Planning at University Sains Malaysia, this research delves into the intersection of Universal Design (UD) and multisensory principles, aiming to revolutionize how we approach interior design.
Choy’s work, published in ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur, which translates to ARTEKS: Journal of Architectural Engineering, focuses on the often-overlooked importance of UD within the Malaysian interior design industry and its relationship with multisensory design. “Universal Design emphasizes creating environments that are practical and accessible to everyone,” Choy explains. “Multisensory design, on the other hand, highlights the significance of engaging all senses, creating a more immersive and inclusive experience.”
The study sets out to achieve two primary objectives: identifying the necessity of implementing UD in various types of buildings and investigating the interaction between multisensory design and UD to promote compassionate design practices. Compassionate design, as Choy defines it, is the practice that mediates the relationship between the principles of UD and sensory design, ensuring that spaces are not only accessible but also engaging and enjoyable for all users.
The implications of this research are far-reaching, particularly for the commercial sector. In an era where customer experience is king, creating inclusive and engaging spaces can significantly enhance a brand’s appeal and customer loyalty. For instance, a retail space designed with UD and multisensory principles in mind can cater to a wider range of customers, including those with disabilities, ultimately driving foot traffic and sales.
Moreover, the energy sector stands to benefit greatly from these design principles. As buildings become more energy-efficient, the focus on occupant comfort and well-being has never been more critical. Multisensory design can enhance occupant satisfaction, leading to increased productivity and reduced energy consumption. “By integrating UD and multisensory design, we can create spaces that are not only energy-efficient but also promote the well-being of their occupants,” Choy notes.
The study’s findings, gathered through questionnaires distributed to industry professionals, reveal that different types of buildings have varying priorities for sensory aspects. However, the integration of UD and multisensory design is consistently deemed important and impactful across the board. This insight underscores the need for a more holistic approach to interior design, one that considers the unique needs and sensory experiences of all users.
As the interior design industry continues to evolve, Choy’s research serves as a clarion call for a more compassionate and inclusive approach. By bridging the gap between UD and multisensory design, designers can create spaces that are not only functional and accessible but also engaging and enjoyable for all. This shift in perspective could very well shape the future of the industry, driving innovation and setting new standards for design excellence.
In an industry often driven by aesthetics, Choy’s work reminds us that true design excellence lies in creating spaces that cater to the diverse needs and experiences of all users. As we look to the future, the integration of UD and multisensory design could very well become the gold standard, transforming the way we design and experience our built environment.
