Architectures et matières

This book presents a collection of buildings - planned or completed - by distinguished architects from England, France and Italy with international reputation whose work is characterised by their search for and use of new material. Architecture in the late 20th century was dominated by steel and glass. In the early 21st century its relationship to building material is subject to ongoing emancipation and a greater freedom of usage. The buildings in this book reflect this shift. Designed by architects from various horizons and different generations and whatever their location, spirit or style, their works demonstrate a near-perfect understanding between, on the one hand, engineers and construction materials providers and, on the other, a more varied supply market and an increasingly flexible construction industry. Stimulated by specific requests from architects fuelling synergy and innovation, new materials - some yet to be invented - predict immense possibilities as well as a host of solutions. This title explores the exciting potential for architecture of such a future.