An outstanding reference source for practicing designers, this thoroughly up-to-date guide to interior design provides a firm understanding of the products, properties, and uses of all materials. It offers a refreshing, "synergistic" approach, stressing the importance of cooperation between interior designers and architects, and mutual understanding of each others tools towards achieving a working and successful final project. It progresses from the ground up - literally - looking beyond the more decorative aspects of design to study the properties and uses of both finishing materials in the design field and structural materials in the architectural field. Threading a theme of environmental awareness throughout (i.e. recycling as ways to help cope with the growing landfill problems), it goes on to cover paints and finishes (and how these products have changed due to laws governing toxic emissions); carpets (with commercial specifications supplied by the Carpet and Rug Institute); flooring, walls, and ceilings (including their installation methods and maintenance requirements); cabinet construction; kitchens and bathrooms (featuring dynamic new materials now used in remodeling); and more. The metric system is integrated throughout, and manufacturers websites are listed for additional research.