ETS4 - Responsive + Responsible Materials

All materials specified by architects embody a complex system of resource extraction, transport, assembly, in-use operation, disassembly and disposal. This journey over the life cycle of a material from cradle to grave can come at a significant cost in terms of resources and energy. This course looks ‘under the skin’ of materials, to see how architects can evaluate ‘responsible’ materials and what these mean in terms of ‘responsive’ building design. Throughout the course, students will evaluate traditional and contemporary materials and develop critical tools for informing design decisions in their studio projects.