Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Packed full of in-depth case studies Material Innovation: Architecture will connect material to reader and will inspire both students and professionals to pursue the optimal material for each specific application.

This volume focuses on specific categories of materials - glass and ceramic, altered naturals, high-performance composites, digitally fabricated metals and polymer films - applied to an extensive range of projects, from the Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision to the Ordos Art and City Museum in Mongolia. Seven specially commissioned 'visual narratives' by such architects as Zaha Hadid are also included.

The series is being produced in association with Material ConneXion, a materials consultancy agency with unparalleled expertise in innovative and sustainable materials. Its materials library of advanced, innovative and sustainable materials and processes is the largest of its kind in the world.

With a preface by George M. Beylerian, the founder of Material ConneXion, and an introduction by Gail Peter Borden, the head of Architecture at the University of Southern California, the texts are authoritative and yet also accessible.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

The first book to be published in a ten-part series focused on the innovative use of materials, Architecture: Material Innovation examines new materials that are transforming design. Dent (Material ConneXion) and Sherr (brand strategist) cover specific categories of materials in chapters titled "Glass and Ceramics," "Altered Naturals," "High-Performance Composites," "Digitally Fabricated Metals," and "Polymer Films." Incorporated are carefully selected buildings from all over the world that showcase the innovative use of a particular material. A "Materials Directory" also provides contact information for the products highlighted throughout the publication. With over 400 color illustrations, this volume offers a wealth of cutting-edge, creative ideas for manipulating material technology. The primary audience appears to be both students and professionals--those looking for inspiration and desirous of improving their design capabilities. This volume benefits its audiences by providing a better understanding of the uses of these materials and the potential in finding the optimal ones for each specific application. A glossary and resource section are included. --Robert Paul Meden, Marymount University