Abstract
This paper discusses how guidelines for design that raise awareness about domestic air quality have emerged through a practice-led bio-inspired textile research, design that in addition to raising awareness empowers people to improve their homes and contributes to their wellbeing. The research process started with the development of eight interactive textile artefacts that drew inspiration from scientific literature, with a focus on the nest behaviour of the female blue tit bird (Cyanistes Caeruleus). Thus, it utilized bio-inspiration as a way to abstract design principles from biological models and apply them to the design of artefacts. In addition, it drew inspiration from the design of rituals. This allowed the creation of ritualistic interactions that consist of repetitive actions that have a meaning which can stimulate awareness. Following the development of the textile artefacts, they were evaluated through two iterative adoption experiments in which the artefacts in their role as domestic probes were placed in participants’ homes. Analysis of the data collected in the form of interviews and personal journal studies showed the potential the artefacts have not only in raising awareness about air quality, but also in generating a sense of wellbeing at home, and in empowering people to improve their homes. Informed by these findings, guidelines for bio-inspired design that raises awareness about air quality were established.
Presenters
Elena BrebenelAssistant Professor, School of Art/ School of Fashion / School of Theatre and Dance, Kent State University, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Bioinspiration, Textiles, Domestic Air Quality, Raising Awareness, Wellbeing, Empowerment
