A NUMERICAL AND COMPUTATIONAL COMPARISON OF INTERIOR DESIGN ELEMENTS IN SELECTED HERITAGE BUILDINGS AROUND THE WORLD

Abstract

Heritage buildings are the memories and cultural identity of a community , and preserving them promotes sustainability by reducing demolition and reconstruction , thereby saving resources and energy. They also play a major role in sustainable tourism and supporting the local economy, connecting generations to the past to build a more sustainable future. This article aims to identify the most important elements that affect the heritage value of buildings, whether they are being reconstructed or newly built. The study focused on the weakness and lack of clarity in the strategy followed by interior designers to create or renovate heritage interior spaces. The study followed a qualitative approach, relying on visual observation of selected samples of heritage buildings around the world. The results showed that interior design elements were more distinctive, clear, recognisable, and visually and sensually rich, due to their connection to the viewer's mind. The building materials used vary according to time and place, and traditional interior architecture links design elements and building materials, reflecting cultural values and creativity. The results also show the human sense of craftsmanship and beauty in highlighting its principles through the value of its elements. Sustainability in these buildings can be found in interior design elements that reflect natural environmental solutions, such as traditional ventilation, which provides air quality without using energy, and thermal insulation achieved through thick walls. Windows and mashrabiya screens allow for balanced natural lighting, reducing dependence on electricity