HIDDEN MATERIAL IMPACTS ON INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH IN LAHORE INTERIORS

Abstract

Indoor environmental health has become an increasingly important concern in rapidly urbanizing cities, where interior spaces are expected to support human comfort, safety, and well-being. This paper examines how commonly used interior materials may contribute to hidden environmental and health-related risks in Lahore. The study is grounded in the themes of good health and well-being, sustainable cities, and responsible material use, with particular attention to the ways in which paints, laminates, MDF, adhesives, PVC finishes, sealants, upholstered furniture, and other interior materials may affect air quality, comfort, and occupant experience. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches through structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and observational review of selected interior spaces. The findings indicate that hidden material impacts are most commonly experienced through strong odors after renovation, poor air freshness, stuffiness, dust accumulation, thermal discomfort, and mild but recurring health complaints such as headaches, eye irritation, allergy symptoms, fatigue, and breathing unease. The study also highlights limited user awareness, inadequate product transparency, cost-driven material selection, and weak availability of healthier alternatives as major barriers to responsible material use in Lahore. Overall, the paper concludes that interior materials must be evaluated not only for aesthetic and economic value but also for their environmental and health implications. The study contributes to the growing discussion on healthier interiors and emphasizes the need for more informed, transparent, and sustainable material practices in Lahore’s built environment.