Overview
The materials used in interior environments are rapidly changing as designers, scientists, and manufacturers develop new products that are stronger, lighter, more sustainable, and often inspired by nature. From biomimetic materials that imitate natural structures to nanotechnology that enhances performance, emerging materials are shaping the future of interior design.
In this assignment, you will research one emerging or experimental material and evaluate its potential use in interior design. Your work should demonstrate an understanding of the material’s composition, performance benefits, sustainability, and design potential.
Assignment Instructions
Step 1 – Select a Material
Choose one emerging material that is either in development or newly introduced to the design market. Examples may include:
- Graphene composites
- Self-healing concrete
- Translucent wood
- Phase-change materials
- Mycelium-based biocomposites
- Aerogel insulation
- Recycled carbon-fiber panels
- Luminescent or light-reactive materials
(You may select a different material with instructor approval.)
Step 2 – Conduct Research
Gather credible information from manufacturer websites, design publications, academic journals, or professional organizations. Your research should address:
- Material composition and properties
- How and where the material can be used in interiors
- Functional and aesthetic advantages
- Sustainability and environmental impact
- Installation and maintenance considerations
- Cost or market availability (if known)
Step 3 – Write Your Summary
Prepare a 2–3 page summary that includes the following sections:
- Introduction: Identify your selected material and explain why you chose it.
- Material Overview: Describe its composition, origin, and unique characteristics.
- Applications in Interior Design: Discuss potential uses, performance advantages, and limitations.
- Sustainability Considerations: Address life-cycle benefits or environmental concerns.
- Future Potential: Explain how this material could influence the future of interior design.
Include at least one image or diagram illustrating the material or an example application.
Step 4 – Citations
List all sources in APA 7th edition format at the end of your document. Minimum of three credible references required.
Formatting & Submission
- Submit as one PDF titled:
INDS1315_EmergingMaterials_First.LastName - Use professional formatting: headings, 11–12 pt font, and consistent spacing.
- Include your name, course, and date on the first page.
Grading Rubric – Emerging Materials Research
| Category | Exemplary (100–90%) | Proficient (89–80%) | Developing (79–70%) | Needs Improvement (<70%) | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material Research & Accuracy | Thorough, accurate explanation of material composition, properties, and applications; uses multiple credible sources. | Clear and accurate information with minor gaps or limited source variety. | Basic or incomplete explanation; minimal or unclear sources. | Inaccurate or missing research; lacks credible references. | /30 |
| Application & Design Relevance | Demonstrates strong understanding of how the material could be used in interiors, with realistic examples and thoughtful analysis. | Provides clear design applications; may lack some depth or specificity. | Mentions possible uses but without strong connection to design practice. | Little or no discussion of design applications. | /25 |
| Sustainability & Innovation Insight | Clearly explains environmental benefits and innovative potential; connects to current design trends. | Addresses sustainability and innovation with adequate explanation. | Limited discussion of sustainability or innovation aspects. | No mention or misunderstanding of sustainability implications. | /20 |
| Organization & Presentation | Well-structured, visually clear, and professionally formatted; includes image(s) and properly formatted citations. | Organized and readable; minor formatting or citation issues. | Somewhat disorganized or inconsistent in layout and formatting. | Disorganized or incomplete submission; missing images or citations. | /15 |
| Writing Quality & Effort | Engaging, concise, and free of errors; demonstrates strong effort and reflection. | Clear writing with minor errors; good overall effort. | Several grammar or clarity issues; adequate effort. | Poorly written, careless, or incomplete. | /10 |
Requirements: follow requirements