The construction of buildings is learnt through experience and the inheritance of a tradition in forming buildings over several thousand years. Successful construction learns from this experience which becomes embodied in principles of application. Though materials and techniques change, various elements have to perform the same function. 'Principles of Element Design' identifies all the relevant elements and then breaks these elements down into all their basic constituents, making it possible for students to fully understand the given theory and principles behind each part. As all building...

Materials Technology clearly identifies materials and technology as the fundamental generators of buildings and examines how they determine the structure, overall form and quality. It examines the issues that determine the choice of materials, and argues that the decision-making of architects, engineers and designers should take account of the environmental impact of sourcing the basic materials, and of the energy implications of their processing and use in manufacturing. Materials Technology is an essential resource for Materials Technology units in building, architecture and surveying...