This publication is based on articles published in the journal Detail between 2001 and 2016

Includes bibliographical references

Theory + knowledge : Material research at OMA -- Material and aesthetic properties of exposed concrete -- Fibres rethought: towards novel constructional articulation -- Transparency and translucence: developments in construction materials -- Revolution and continuity in wood construction -- Carbon concrete: a high-performance material with great efficiency potential -- Modern earth construction: a form of building with development potential -- A building material with a rich tradition: using brick in custom solutions -- Glass in architecture: new developments

Case studies : Luxembourg City Art Museum -- Museum of Art in Ravensburg -- Restaurant in Kayl-Tétange -- Umbrella Teahouse -- Emergency housing in Iwaki -- Chapel in Fischbachau -- Chapel in Cuddesdon -- Church and parish centre in Cologne -- Student hostel in Ulm -- Micro-apartment block in Seoul -- Garden pavilion in Smetlede -- House on Lake Maggiore -- House in Sweden -- Centre for geriatric psychiatry in Pfäfers -- Dwelling house in Tokyo -- House in Vrhovlje -- Holiday home in Druxberge -- Même experimental house in Taiki -- Basel Academy of Art and Design -- Conference centre in Cartagena -- Sports centre in Sargans -- Indoor pool in Paris -- Pumping station in Bochum -- Canopy structure in Munich -- Prada Foundation in Milan -- Heidelberg Castle visitor centre -- Visitor centre of the Swiss Ornithological Institute in Sempach -- Library in Liyuan -- Multipurpose pavilion of the Escola Gavina in Valencia -- Appendix : Design and construction terms

Architecture? a discipline dominated by materials Materials and their finishes lend buildings and interiors their distinctive characters. Yet, which criteria persuade architects to use or not use a particular material? How do they find the right one among a seamlessly endless array of materials? Today, material selection is usually kept completely separate from local conditions and traditions and is rarely restricted by design requirements.00This volume, part of the?Best of Detail? series, provides guidance while presenting different approaches of renowned architecture firms in how they select materials. It also provides an insight into material research and technological innovations that are perfect for experimentation. Last but not least, several completed architectural projects from Detail publications from the past four years offer abundant inspiration for the reader?s own work

In German and English