Basics Architecture 02: Construction & Materiality is an in-depth exploration of the key materials used in modern architecture. The book covers materials including stone and brick, concrete, timber, glass, steel and composites. It examines their history, development and practical application in contemporary architecture. Discussion is supported by a variety of case studies and examples of work taken from the best of contemporary architecture, as well as practical student exercises and resources.

Introduction. How to get the most out of this book. Brick and stone: Timeline: brick and stone; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Antonio Gaudi; Woolf Architects: Brick Leaf House; Eric Parry Architects: 30 Finsbury Square. Concrete: Timeline: Concrete; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Tadao Ando; Zaha Hadid: The Central Building; Axel Schultes and Charlotte Frank: Baumschulenweg Crematorium. Timber: Timeline: Timber; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Edward Cullinan; Sean Godsell: The Carter/Tucker House; Glenn Howells Architects: The Savill Building. Glass and steel: Timeline: Glass and steel; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Ludwig Mies van der Rohe; Foster + Partners: The McLaren Technology Centre; Grimshaw Architects: Fundacion Caixa Galicia. Composite materials: Timeline: Composite materials; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Charles Eames; Stanton Williams Architects: House of Fraser, Bristol; dRMM: The Kingsdale School. Innovation, sustainability and the future: Directions; Innovation; Sustainability; The future. Conclusion. Samples panel. Glossary and picture credits. Acknowledgements.