Ethics of Interior Design in the 21st Century

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The profession of interior design goes far beyond aesthetics, extending into deeper dimensions of social and legal responsibility, where designers play a significant role in shaping human health, environmental sustainability, and social behavior. The article introduces the concept of environmental integrity as a core ethical obligation, questioning the legitimacy of using materials sourced from endangered or non-sustainable resources, such as timber from threatened forests, merely to satisfy aesthetic preferences. It also highlights the responsibility toward public health, emphasizing the importance of selecting materials free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are linked to serious health risks such as cancer and allergies. Compliance with international fire and safety codes is also essential. Furthermore, the article addresses professional market ethics, including transparency in pricing and the rejection of hidden commissions from suppliers, ensuring that design decisions remain independent and client-focused. In the digital era, intellectual property rights have become a critical concern, as copying designs from online sources and claiming them as original work represents a clear violation of professional ethics and international codes of conduct. Ultimately, the article emphasizes that the interior designer is not merely an aesthetic creator but also a social reformer, responsible for shaping spaces that respect cultural identity and strengthen family and community relationships within the built environment.