Developing Aesthetic Guidelines for Upcycled Materials in Interior Design Program: An Evaluation Study

In interior design, sustainability and environmental awareness are becoming increasingly important. Upcycling-defined as the creative transformation of discarded materials into functional and aesthetically pleasing objects-offers a promising strategy to address these priorities. Although widely practiced in crafts and product design, upcycling has yet to be fully integrated into professional interior design practice and education. This study investigates the aesthetic acceptability of upcycled materials in interior design by surveying licensed interior designers on selected upcycled samples. The study employed a descriptive-survey design. Twelve practicing licensed interior designer respondents rated eight upcycled products on aesthetic value, artistic value, creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainability using a 4-point Likert scale. Results reveal that upcycling can achieve high ratings in creativity and sustainability, though craftsmanship and durability varied across samples. Findings suggest that upcycling holds promise as a sustainable practice for interior design and may serve as a foundation for elective courses in the BS Interior Design program. Furthermore, the study aligns with the Climate Actions (UNSDG 11, 12, 13). This study concludes that upcycled projects at EARIST demonstrate high creativity and sustainability, though craftsmanship requires improvement. The integration of upcycling in interior design education is feasible and beneficial. Upcycling is a core practice with in a circular economy thus EARIST can reinforce the institution\'s commitment to sustainability and contribute to the global movement for environmental responsibility.