Sexism in Interior: Feminine Design in a Male-Centric Domain
Abstract
This paper examines how gender-based differences are reflected in architecture, especially in interior and furniture design, mainly through evaluating male-centric design standards and feminine design approaches. Traditionally, the architectural industry has been dominated by men solely. According to Le Corbusier’s Scale of Modulor and Adolf Loos’ Villa Muller, male designers produce standardized and fixed products in the contemporary era, which require users to adjust to the designs. In contrast, female designers like Charlotte Perriand, Lily Reich, etc. contribute to breaking the male-centric design norms with flexibility and mobility to achieve individual needs, trying to revise the relationship between users and products. While other researchers focus mainly on the expansion of design standards within the male domain, this paper is dedicated to bringing to the front the ongoing struggle for gender equality and justice and advocating for a more diverse and inclusive atmosphere not only in the design industry but also in the entire society.
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