ABSTRACT
This paper presents the design and evaluation of interactive textile artefacts that raise awareness about Domestic Air Pollution (DAP). It aims to establish an approach for raising awareness that inspires people to improve their homes, without making them anxious about the problem and its effects on their health, therefore contributing to their well-being. The research draws inspiration from scientific literature, with a focus on the nesting behaviour of the blue tit (Cyanistes Caeruleus) female bird. It uses bioinspiration as a way to abstract design principles from biological models and apply them to the design of artefacts, as well as to the design of rituals, as this allows for the creation of experiences consisting of repetitive actions with meaning that can stimulate awareness. The research stages include: developing the design brief, generating textile samples and artefacts, and testing by undertaking two adoption experiments, and using qualitative methods of data collection and analysis. The evaluation study with nine participants showed the potential of bioinspired textile artefacts in raising awareness about DAP, and in generating a sense of well-being for participants.
