Interior Design Information Needs

The rising cost of housing has directed many families toward smaller homes or convinced them to remain in older homes that require remodeling. Recent changes in materials and treatments have made interior design decisions more complex than in the past. Home economics Extension has tried to help consumers with interior design information through a variety of educational programs, but are we on target?

To determine an answer, a questionnaire was mailed to a representative sample of Arkansas households in July 1985. The statewide survey provided excellent generalization capability because it included both users and nonusers of Extension programs. The University of Arkansas conducted the surveys, using an existing panel of households. A total of 411 households returned completed questionnaires (69% response rate).

Respondents were first asked to identify the extent to which they needed information about a variety of interior design items. Forty-four percent of respondents indicated a need for information on remodeling and using space more efficiently. Information on window, floor, and wall treatments that can enhance the aesthetic quality and maintenance of the home was selected as information needed by 40%. Finally, those items that contribute to a harmonious and functional interior such as fabrics, furniture, lighting, and appliances were considered a high information need by many. Percentages of respondents expressing information needs ranged from 44% for remodeling to 28% for color. These data are now being used to establish Extension home economics programming priorities.

Second, survey participants were asked where they obtained interior design information. Of the eight sources listed, the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service was the third most used source at 34%. This figure is below furniture (43%) and appliance stores (35%), but higher than state and local energy companies, lending institutions, and interior decorators and designers. These data demonstrate the extent to which Extension is used as a source of information in these areas.

Third, respondents were asked to evaluate the quality of information obtained from the eight sources. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service received the highest evaluation with 89% of the respondents rating the information as "good." Clearly, those who have used Extension information on interior design found it helpful - an important piece of data to support the quality of Extension programs.