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Abstract

This study addresses the gap between knowledge of adaptable design and the socio-spatial practices within the interior spaces of contemporary domestic settings. The aim is to support the sustainability of residential environments by enhancing the adaptability of dwellings to changing and diverse home life needs. Consequently, this paper delves into design features that enhance the adaptability of interior domestic spaces, informed by everyday family homemaking processes. Through a case study of the Tyneside flat, this paper illustrates challenges of transitioning this flat from Victorian to contemporary family home. Drawing on data gathered using multimodal methods, the findings demonstrate homemaking tactics and adaptable design features enhancing this transformation process. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of contextualising adaptable design to accommodate ongoing socio-spatial negotiations occurring within the interior space of the home. It posits adaptability as crucial for supporting the quality of home experience, emphasising its ethical significance in architectural practice and decision-making processes.

Publication Date

7-31-2025

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Submitted Date

2024-08-16

Accepted Date

2025-06-14

First Page

255

Last Page

278

Authors' Bio

Heba Sarhan
heba.m.salah@gmail.com
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9092-4041

Heba Sarhan is an independent researcher and architect. She recently completed her PhD at Northumbria University, United Kingdom. Her academic work stems from her architectural education and practice. Interested in public engagement, Sarhan's academic activities rely on creative participatory methods that aim to develop collective concepts about design and place making. Sarhan's research bridges home design to diverse topics including culture, wellbeing, and home retrofit.

Rosie Parnell
rosie.parnell@newcastle.ac.uk
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8305-3452

Rosie Parnell is a Professor of Architecture and Pedagogy in the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, Newcastle University, United Kingdom. Her research seeks to engage and share underrepresented voices and experiences in spatial design, particularly centred on children, families, and architectural pedagogy. She is a member of Newcastle University's Centre for Children and Youth.

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Author(s) retain the copyright of articles published in this journal, with first publication rights granted to Interiority.

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