THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INTERIOR & EXTERIOR DESIGN

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INTERIOR & EXTERIOR DESIGN 2

III. The Differences

A. Materials

The primary difference between indoor and outdoor design lies in the type of materials

used. Outdoor materials need to be strong and durable and able to resist moisture, decay, and

insects. Teak is the most appropriate wood for outdoor design as it is known to possess some of

the vital weather resistance-characteristics (Etch & Bolts, 2017). Teak also contains natural oils

which protect from harsh weather. On the other hand, indoor materials do not need to be weather

resistant (Ferris, 2020). Indoor materials are treated with a coating of varnish. The coating ensures

they are protected from occasional spills of drinks and wiping of surfaces in the house.

B. Furniture

Although there are common considerations for both outdoor and indoor furniture, several

factors differentiate them. Outdoor furniture materials need to be weather resistant. They should

withstand sun, moisture, rain, rust, and corrosion (Ferris, 2020). For indoor furniture, the only

factors to consider are price, durability, and comfort (Ferris, 2020). The type of material chosen

should be consistent with the users’ specifications and needs.

C. Zoning

1. Spaces

In interior design, rooms are zoned according to their functions. Sub-spaces are created to

ensure the different needs of the users are met. First, the spaces are defined, whether they will be

used for functionality or socializing. Lighting is then used to ensure the functionality of each area

is clear. Also, statement pieces are included in zoning spaces as they make it easy to tell what each

space is used for. In exterior design, zoning is done to separate spaces such as gardens, car parking