Evolving Preferences: A Decade-Long Study on the Choice of Interior Materials and Finishes among Practicing Interior Designers and Architects in Bangalore (2015–2025)

https://doi.org/10.46610/JoIDRP.2026.v011i02.001

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and the importance of environmental awareness have elevated sustainability and innovation in interior design. This study examines how Bangalore’s interior designers and architects have shifted their material and finish choices over 2015–2020 versus 2020–2025. This study investigates the evolving material and finish preferences among interior designers and architects in Bangalore between 2015 and 2025. The mixed-method approach utilized structured online questionnaires, which were distributed to various stakeholders, including designers, contractors, and clients. The data collected from these questionnaires were then analysed using thematic coding and descriptive statistics. The results of the study demonstrate an increase in the use of sustainable materials over time. Between 2015 and 2020, architects and interior designers indicated a strong preference for solid wood, wood veneers, laminates, standard paint, and natural stone as their primary materials; however, from 2020 to 2025, there was a significant increase in the use of engineered composites, environmentally friendly finishes, and smart materials. Evaluating costs and aesthetic values has always been a primary component for practitioners when selecting materials (over 80% of respondents). Through the latter part of the study, it could be discerned that sustainability was an increasing factor for practitioners when selecting materials, with over 60% of those surveyed in 2020–2025 identifying sustainable or low-VOC paint or sustainably sourced materials amongst their priority selection criteria, up from approximately 30% of respondents in the previous period. Additionally, challenges associated with the adoption of new materials, such as high costs, limited supply chains, and low client awareness, were identified by respondents. Some of these challenges intensified as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2022), creating supply shortages and price fluctuations; however, several designers took this opportunity to experiment with locally sourced or alternative materials. This decade-long analysis conducted in one city addresses an important gap in the literature regarding practitioner preferences in the Indian interior design industry by providing empirical evidence of how practitioner preferences for materials in India have changed in one of the largest urban centres in the world. Few prior studies have systematically tracked such changes over a long period in India. The insights from this study can guide designers and clients toward material choices that better balance performance, sustainability, and style. The findings also inform suppliers and manufacturers about the rising demand for eco-friendly and innovative materials, and they highlight areas where client education is needed. Academically, the results suggest that interior design curricula and professional development in India should place greater emphasis on sustainable materials and new technologies. Future research should expand to other regions and explore emerging material technologies to build on these findings.