This project aims to explore how smart textiles can change today’s view and use of interiors in care environments, through conceptual textiles with photochromic and thermochromic colours acting as an information bridge for more isolated patients. The master thesis practices based and demonstrates some of the possibilities of the chromatic material in relation to the current research of the two chromatic materials.
The thesis discusses the relationship between healing environments and the importance of aesthetics, with the aim of fulfilling the emotional and social needs of feeling ‘alive’, ‘well’ and ‘included’. Research indicates that nature has a calming effect on patients, therefore flowers and leaves have been a source of inspiration for the expression of the textiles. The colour change creates a subtle communicative bridge between patient and movement in the hospital, ‘the Rhythm of the House‘, and outdoors, ‘Rhythm of the Sun‘.
The conceptual proposal presents a construction solution where the colour changeability represents a communicative level, as well as a decorative and a dynamic level. The physical textile samples visualize the visual as well as the tactile expression, but also show the integration of the electronics. The scenario for the thesis is the years 2015-2020, when Smart Textiles could have thought to have been developed to be used as textile furnishing products within the care environment.
Ledendal, M. (2009) Chromatic chlorophyll – Conceptual hospital textiles with chromatic Smart Materials, University of Borås/Swedish School of Textiles Link.
