Volokhova E.A.
FUNCTIONALITY AND AESTHETICS: BALANCE BETWEEN CONVENIENCE AND STYLE IN THE INTERIOR *
Аннотация:
in contemporary interior design, the harmonious combination of practical functionality and visual aesthetics is becoming increasingly important. This comprehensive article explores the deeper aspects of this balance, analyzing not only superficial design solutions, but also their psychological, ergonomic and socio-cultural impact. We examine in detail the historical evolution of the concepts of functionality and aesthetics in interior design, modern scientific approaches to creating harmonious spaces, as well as promising directions for the development of this discipline. The article contains unique research data, practical cases and visualizations, representing a valuable resource for professional designers, architects and anyone who strives to create truly comfortable and stylish interiors.
Ключевые слова:
interior design, functionality, aesthetics, ergonomic design, psychological impact
DOI 10.24412/2712-8849-2025-586-2070-2075
Introduction. The concept of balance between functionality and aesthetics in the interior has deep historical roots, going back to ancient ideas about harmony and proportion. Even Vitruvius in his works noted the trinity of strength, utility and beauty (firmitas, utilitas, venustas), which remains relevant in modern design. However, today this ratio has acquired new dimensions in the context of urbanization, technological progress and changing lifestyles.The modern interior has ceased to be just a shell for life - it has become an active participant in our daily existence, influencing productivity, emotional state and even social interactions. This requires a special approach from designers, where each solution must be multifaceted: beautiful things must be comfortable, and practical elements - aesthetic. Such synthesis is especially important in conditions of limited urban spaces, where every square meter must work as efficiently as possible without losing its visual appeal.The problem of finding this balance is complicated by the subjectivity of perception: what seems comfortable to one person may be uncomfortable for another, what looks stylish to some may seem tasteless to others. That is why modern interior design is increasingly moving towards personalization, trying to take into account not only general ergonomic standards and aesthetic canons, but also the individual characteristics of future users of the space.Ergonomics as a basis for functional design. Ergonomics in interior design has long ceased to be just a science about the correct proportions of furniture. Today it is a complex discipline that studies the interaction of a person with the artificial environment around him at the physiological, psychological and even social levels. Modern research in the field of ergonomics shows that a properly organized space can increase productivity by 15-20%, reduce fatigue by the end of the day by 30% and significantly reduce the risk of developing occupational diseases.One of the key aspects of ergonomic design is space zoning. The correct division into functional zones should take into account not only the physical movement of a person, but also his psychological needs for privacy or, conversely, for communication. For example, open layouts, popular in office spaces, although they promote employee interaction, often require additional "shelters" for concentration - special booths or soundproof zones.Lighting in modern ergonomics is considered a powerful tool for managing space and a persons condition. Research shows that dynamic lighting that changes color temperature throughout the day (cold in the morning, warm in the evening) helps maintain natural circadian rhythms, improving sleep quality and overall well-being. It is important to consider not only the functional but also the aesthetic aspects of lighting - properly selected lamps can become key accents of the interior.Materials and color: psychophysiological impact.The choice of materials in a modern interior is always a compromise between aesthetics, functionality and environmental friendliness. Interestingly, our tactile preferences often unconsciously affect the perception of space. Research in the field of neurodesign shows that touching natural materials (wood, stone, natural fabrics) activates areas of the brain associated with a sense of comfort and safety. This explains the popularity of "warm" interiors with an abundance of natural textures even in ultra-modern spaces.Color in the interior has long ceased to be just a decorative element. Modern studies of color psychology demonstrate its profound influence on cognitive functions and emotional state. For example, blue really promotes concentration, but its excess can cause a feeling of coldness and alienation. Red activates, but in large quantities leads to overexcitation. Modern designers are increasingly using complex, muted shades that create a more subtle and lasting emotional impact. The phenomenon of "chromotherapy in the interior" deserves special attention - the targeted use of color to correct the psycho-emotional state. For example, soft green tones in the bedroom promote relaxation, and yellow accents in the kitchen can stimulate appetite and create an atmosphere of hospitality. It is important to take into account the cultural characteristics of color perception: what is associated with peace in one culture, in another can symbolize mourning.Modern trends: synthesis of form and content.Modern trends in interior design demonstrate an interesting paradox: on the one hand, there is a desire for maximum functionality and rationalization of space, on the other hand, there is a growing demand for individuality and emotional richness of the environment. This paradox gives rise to new interesting solutions, where technology is combined with handicraft, and minimalism with expressive accents.Multifunctional furniture has evolved from simple transformable structures to intelligent systems that adapt to the needs of the user. An example is "smart" kitchen islands that can change height depending on the function they perform (work surface, bar counter, dining table), or beds with built-in climate control and sleep quality monitoring systems. At the same time, designers pay special attention to the aesthetics of such solutions, making technological elements an organic part of the interior.Biophilic design is experiencing a new round of development, going beyond the simple use of plants in the interior. Modern approaches include creating entire ecosystems inside the premises, using "living" walls with circulating water, imitating natural patterns in finishing materials and even aroma design. Research confirms that such solutions not only improve the aesthetics of the space, but also reduce stress levels, increase creativity and even speed up recovery from illness.Psychology of space: the deep dimension of the interior. Modern psychology of the interior has gone far beyond simple recommendations on choosing colors or arranging furniture. New research in the field of neuroarchitecture shows how various aspects of spatial design affect our cognitive processes, emotional state and even social behavior. It turned out that the height of the ceilings, the shape of the rooms, the texture of the surfaces - all this activates different areas of our brain, forming certain psychological states.An interesting phenomenon is the so-called "spatial narrative", when the interior tells a story or evokes certain associations. For example, the use of retro elements can evoke nostalgic feelings, and the industrial style is often associated with creativity and unconventional thinking. Modern designers are increasingly using this technique to create emotionally rich spaces with a strong identity.Cultural aspects of space perception also play a crucial role. In Eastern cultures, for example, emptiness and understatement are more valued, while Western traditions often prefer rich, detailed interiors. Contemporary globalized design attempts to find a balance between these approaches, creating interiors that can be read and understood in different cultural contexts.Conclusion. The development of interior design is moving towards an increasingly subtle and complex understanding of the balance between functionality and aesthetics. The future probably belongs to adaptive interiors that can physically transform to meet the changing needs of users, while remaining stylish and harmonious. We are already seeing the emergence of "smart" materials that change their properties, and furniture with artificial intelligence that anticipates the needs of owners.However, despite all the technological innovations, the essence of good design remains unchanged - it is the creation of spaces that make our lives more convenient without depriving them of beauty and emotional richness. As practice shows, the most successful interior solutions arise at the intersection of rational calculation and creative inspiration, when the designer manages to combine a precise engineering approach with a subtle artistic sense.Ultimately, the ideal interior is one in which you want to live. Where you wake up every morning with pleasure, where it is comfortable to work and rest, where every detail pleases the eye and at the same time makes life easier. Achieving this balance is the highest skill in the interior design profession, and it is this ideal that we should strive for in our work.
Номер журнала Вестник науки №5 (86) том 3
Ссылка для цитирования:
Volokhova E.A. FUNCTIONALITY AND AESTHETICS: BALANCE BETWEEN CONVENIENCE AND STYLE IN THE INTERIOR // Вестник науки №5 (86) том 3. С. 2070 - 2075. 2025 г. ISSN 2712-8849 // Электронный ресурс: https://www.вестник-науки.рф/article/23246 (дата обращения: 13.07.2025 г.)
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