SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES FOR THE FLOORS AND WALLS' COVERING IN THE RESIDENTIAL HOUSES AT JORDAN: INVESTIGATIVE STUDY

Abstract

The Sustainable interior design practices are seeking for novel solutions during materials selection process. Despite the wide spread of various artificial materials implemented in finishing, the need and dependence on natural material is still of great importance for the sustainable interior design practices. The current paper considered this topic by investigating the role of limestone, and Travertine in particular, as a sustainable alternative for covering the walls and floors of the residential houses in Jordan. The study methodology included two phases: during the first phase a thorough review was undertaken to outline the main features of using limestone as a building and finishing material for houses along with the requirement of sustainability. The second phase included conducting semi-structured interviews with two professionals in the fields of interior design and limestone Industry. The findings of the current work revealed that limestone in general and Travertine in particular hold significant features for walls and floors' covering of the residential houses in Jordan and can be considered as an alternative sustainable material because of its durability, adequate coast, appearance and colors, and availability.