ABSTRACT

'Taking Shape' explores the evolution of scientific and academic theories that have resulted in the concept of sustainability. Susannah Hagan uses this as a basis to argue for developments in the future and argues that these theories are not 'just an intellectual and aesthetic regression' as they are often perceived to be. By focusing on the impact of the new theories of sustainable technology and new materials in architecture, Hagan moves the discourse and practice of environmental sustainability within architecture towards a greater degree of awareness of both its cultural significance and cultural potential. In short, it demonstrates the capacity of sustainable architecture to embrace cultural and technical innovation.

part |2 pages

Part One

chapter 1|13 pages

Defining environmental architecture

chapter 3|18 pages

A post-imperial modernism?

part |2 pages

Part Two

chapter 4|12 pages

Ethics and environmental design

chapter 5|18 pages

Materials and materiality

part |2 pages

Part Three

chapter 6|50 pages

Rules of engagement

chapter 7|18 pages

Doing it

part |2 pages

Part Four

chapter 8|26 pages

ComplexCity