Question

• What are the interior design implications regarding the heating and cooling engineering system?
• How are interior designers involved in the design of fireplaces and wood stoves?
• What considerations should affect an interior designer’s specification of a radiantly heated floor, ceiling, or wall?
• How do HVAC system components affect the work of an interior designer?

Answer 1

As per the book,

"Building Systems for Interior Designers, By Corky Binggeli", the interior design implications are listed as follows:

1. The size and location of HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) mechanical room can cause interior design issues (ceiling and plan space). Thus early involvement of architect is necessary.
2. Proper early planning is necessary regarding the location and dimensions of piping and ductwork.
3. Early involvement of architect can reduce interior space related issues.
4. The form and position of thermal delivery devices must be coordinated with the interior design.
5. The interior designer must be aware of the recent innovative HVAC technologies that can be adopted.
6. The energy efficient, client-comfortable HVAC equipments should be adopted by the designer.
7. Uniform ceiling height, lighting placement and HVAC location increase flexibility in office arrangement and useful life of building.
8. The spaces require diverse thermal conditions ( eg: summer, winter etc).
9. The furniture layout should be compatible with the air circulation and ventilation system.
10. Each enclosed space (with walls or full height partitions) should have atleast one supply vent and one return or exhaust vent.