An Exploration Into Barriers To Use Of Waste Glass In Interior Spaces In Nairobi

Abstract

Interior Design has been hitherto associated with attractive expensive décor materials, finishes and products. But the scope of design reaches far beyond this association. Interior Designers are trained to solve interior space problems with focus on user needs in addition to social, environmental and sustainability considerations. This study focuses on sustainable design as one of interior design approaches that exhibits increased awareness of the environmental, raw materials and production systems with the view to preserve the world for future generations. Waste glass was selected for investigation because it is one of wastes that offer greater opportunities in solving interior space design problems. A qualitative research approach was employed for this study. Data collection techniques included non-participant observation, informal and formal interviews and semi structured interview guides. Data analysis was undertaken using descriptive methods including narrative. Tables, pie charts and photographs were presented to support some of the issues that are unearthed. The research findings show that although there are vast opportunities for use of waste glass in interior spaces such as interior finish material; there exist various barriers that hinder exploitation of those opportunities such as cost of implementation and lack of enough time to source for and use waste glass in interior spaces. In the context of this research therefore, it is established that local interior space designs are not exploiting opportunities for use of recycled waste such as glass in solving interior design problems. This thesis is divided into six chapters. Chapter one covers the background to the study, research objectives and questions, the significance of study and the scope. Chapter two critically reviewed existing literature in line with the objectives of the study. The methodology applied in the study is discussed in chapter three. Data analysis and presentation is provided in chapter four. Chapter five synthesized and interpreted the findings of the data analyzed. Finally chapter six summarized the findings, the conclusions and gives recommendations arising from the study.