Interiors are the most intimate and mutable encounters we have with shelter. An interior may be thought of as a liner. That liner is composed of both fixed elements, such as interior walls and floor finishes, and movable fixtures including furnishings, equipment and accessories. Like the fabric of an inner layer of a jacket it is the interior we feel, sense and touch. This interior liner embodies the image, personal comfort and memory we all associate with specific buildings. Also like the inner layer of a jacket it may be removed. In some instances - curtains, carpets and furniture - the cycle of removal and replacement may be seasonal. More frequently in the buildings we encounter the cycle of interior change is of longer duration - in high quality buildings interior refurbishment cycles may be up to fifty or sixty years - involving time as a factor in design. Both aspects of this conception of interior as liner - specific image, comfort and memory on the one hand and cyclical change on the other - guide our interiors.
Image, comfort and memory are the product of specific choices we make about the materials, forms and duration of an interior. To the extent that an interior is intended to provide comfort and memory, initial image plays a central role as do the choices of durable, self-finishing materials that can come to embody generational patina, history of use and familiarity. Wood, stone, masonry, plaster and metal may develop long-lived positive wear or patina. They may look better over time and they have the potential to embody specific memory on the part of inhabitants while lessening maintenance. Drywall, plastic laminate, vinyl, carpet, acoustical tile and composite materials generally erode rather than patina over time and are subject to regular maintenance or replacement rather than repair. They can project a specific and effective image but have little inherent potential to embody time and familiarity as their replacement cycles are frequent. Each palette is appropriate provided consistent reflection of a clearly articulated philosophy for the aspiration of the interior.
Our interiors work includes both the attached and movable furnishings that line building structures. Projects span client and project types.
Selected Interior Projects
Silliman College, Yale University, New Haven, CT
Davenport College, Yale University, New Haven CT
Pierson College, Yale University, New Haven, CT
Middle School, Sidwell Friends School, Washington, DC
420 N 20 Studio, Philadelphia, PA
Suzanne Roberts Theatre, Philadelphia Theatre Company, Philadelphia, PA
Melvin J. and Claire Levine Hall, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Berkeley College, Yale University, New Haven, CT
Earl F. Sykes Student Union, West Chester University, West Chester, PA
Lap Pool Addition and Bathroom, Kegler Residence, Chestnut Hill, PA
Admissions & Financial Aid Building, Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ
University Center, East Stroudsburg University, East Stroudsburg, PA
West Middle School, The Shipley School, Bryn Mawr, PA
Unit M2, The Rittenhouse, Philadelphia, PA
© 2007 KieranTimberlake Associates LLP
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