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Abstract

Objective

This paper examines a common method by which people interpret and integrate their experience of environment and make their specific responses known to self and others—the method of personal narrative. The characteristics of narrative structure that help to organize the complex world of people, entities, and events through the language of stories provide a flexible framework for understanding and expanding the meanings of design.

Research Design

Three theories that examine use of language, experience, and constructed meaning relevant to human environments are reviewed. Narrative theory is the most comprehensive. This paper analyzes the 10 components of narrative and considers how interiors can be evaluated for meaning using similar criteria.

Analysis

A theoretical structure that utilizes the language of shared cultural meaning and diverse personal interpretation provides a comprehensive method for analyzing the human experience of environment. Interpreting interior space as a narrative adds depth and breadth to the understanding of how environment is psychologically inhabited by the individual.

Key Findings

A new theoretical framework is derived from narrative structure. It establishes specific design criteria applicable to understanding the human experience of interior space. Using narrative criteria to predict or interpret possible human response to interior design can assist designers in making wise concrete decisions about complex and abstract phenomena.

Conclusion

Design appears to be very similar to personal narrative as both integrate a complex variety of human and environmental phenomena. Design narrative theory provides a practical and dynamic system for acknowledging the importance of human meaning in interior space.

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