Abstract
This paper aims to discuss interior designers and architects understandings of sustainable
design and barriers that influence their sustainable design practices. The paper reflects on
findings that were obtained from a research study, performed in 2011, that conducted semistructured
interviews with practicing interior designers and architects within the KwaZulu-
Natal region in South Africa. This research is considered as significant, because it
communicates findings that were documented for the first time in this region and gives
insight into challenges that the practitioners experience. Conclusions showed that education
and experience informs a designer’s understanding and values towards sustainable design.
Designers’ understandings and sustainable design values affect their behaviour, attitudes, and
likelihood of practice in accordance with the constitution, legislation, policy and building
regulations. These in turn determine whether these designers are blocked by barriers that
impact on the implementation of sustainable design solutions. Barriers to sustainable interior
design include education, cost, products and materials, rating tools and the client. Solutions
that were established during the study include an improved knowledge of sustainable design,
implementation of national regulation, improved knowledge and scope of products and
materials, and educating the client.