ABSTRACT
The built environment is characterized by the materials that comprise its spatial configurations. There are numerous materials utilized in building construction, which may vary depending upon the regional resources and methods or depending upon the building program needs. This chapter introduces the major material groups based on chemistry and physical characteristics including natural materials, nontechnical ceramics, technical ceramics, polymers and elastomers, foams, and composites. The influence of material extraction, manufacturing, and compositions on environmental health is presented. The materials in our built environment also have a subtle but profound effect on human senses and perception. The phenomenological effects of sight, sound, smell, and touch are directly influenced by the material conditions of built environment spaces (spatio-material configurations). This chapter introduces the scientific evidence for how materials impact human sensing and perception. Visual impacts of materials include beauty, light, and neurological response. Odorous impacts of materials influence air quality in the built environment. Acoustic impacts of materials address noise, vibrations, and sound stimuli. Finally, the haptic impacts of materials are characterized by thermal experience and ergonomics. While phenomenology of materials in design is a well-established concept, this chapter presents recent research findings specific to the impacts on human wellbeing. Emerging materials in building applications that provide unique characteristics to enable environmental response and temporal change dependent upon dynamic conditions are introduced. Responsive materials may be triggered by changes in light, sound, heat, chemistry, or moisture. The information in this chapter provides the overview fundamentals for understanding the chemistry and characteristics of materials and why it is necessary to reframe the selection of materials for building design through consideration of human health measures.
