Sustainable materials are a key ingredient to both responsible architecture and technological and design innovation. Such is the message of two books recently received in the Architecture Studies Library:
Transmaterial: A Catalog of Materials that Redefine Our Physical Environment
TA403.6 T73 2006
and
Material Connexion: The Global Resource of New and Innovative Materials for Architects, Artists, and Designers
TA403.6 B4568 2005
Both titles are in the library's reference section.
Both titles have a backstory.
Transmaterial is a labor of love of architect Blaine Brownell of NBBJ. An article in Architect (November/December 2006, 80-87) details his activities and interests. Mentioned in the article is his blog at http://transstudio.com/tm/ -- also on the subject of new ecology-friendly materials.
Material Connexion has offices in several locations in the world, including New York. They sell a subscription to their database of products. The ASL does not currently subscribe. If you would be interested in the library pursuing a subscription, let me know! More information about Material Connexion is at http://www.materialconnexion.com/pa1.asp
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