Information Materials

This book considers the potential of new, smart materials and their use in architecture. It begins with an overview of current global tendencies (technological, demographic, and socio-anthropological) and their relevance for architectural design. Expanding upon approaches for flexible design solutions to address change and uncertainty, Dr. Kretzer begins by exploring adaptive architecture and proceeds to introduce the topic of information materials, which encompasses smart and functional materials, their current usage, and their potential for the creation of future spaces. The second chapter provides a comprehensive overview of architectural materials, past and present, split into the topics: natural, industrial, synthetic, digital, and information materials. Chapter three introduces an educational approach for the mediation of information material usage in design courses and student workshops. The final section provides detailed information on a range of emerging material phenomena, including aerogels, bioluminescence, bio plastics, dye-sensitized solar cells, electroluminescent displays, electroactive polymers, soft robotics, and thermochromics. Each section explains its respective history, working principles, fabrication and (potential) usage in architecture and design, and provides hands-on tutorials on how to self-produce these materials, and displays class-tested experimental installations. The book concludes with an outlook into the domain of synthetic biology and the prospects of a living architecture. It is ideal for students of structural materials engineering, architecture, and urban planning; professionals working these in areas, as well as materials science/engineering and architecture educators. 

Manuel Kretzer is responsible for coordinating and leading the postgraduate Master of Advanced Studies class¿s digital design and production modules at ETH Zurich. His research aims at the notion of a soft and dynamic architecture with a specific focus on new (smart) material performance. In 2012 he established the materiability research network, a platform that brings together architects, artists, designers, students, scientists and researchers who share a common fascination with smart, programmable materials and their potential integration into architecture. He is also partner and co-founder of responsive design studio, based in Cologne and Zurich.

Current Global Challenges, the Concept of Adaptive Architecture, and the Possibilities of Information Materials.- The Ever-Changing Nature of Materiality and the Meaning of Materials in Architecture and Construction.- Materiability - An Attempt for the Education of an Information Material Literacy in Respect to Emerging Materials.- A Selection of Emerging Information Materials, their Properties, Fabrication, and Application in Speculative Spatial Installations.- Towards a New Softness.