How Construction Materials and Technologies Are Evolving

November 6, 2024

Follow METROPOLIS’s most compelling coverage of construction materials and technologies, from next-gen concrete to circular design.

By: Metropolis Editors

The construction industry is rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in materials and technology that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and durability. From innovative building materials like carbon-neutral concrete and sustainable timber to cutting-edge technologies such as 3D printing, modular construction, and smart building systems, the landscape of construction is always constantly changing. Here, METROPOLIS explores the world of materials and construction technologies focused on building tomorrow’s future.

Circularity in Construction

Next-Gen Construction Technologies

Creative Concrete

The Past and Future of Timber

Innovations in Modular Construction

Conclusion

Circularity in construction reshapes the industry by prioritizing the reuse, recycling, and repurposing of materials to minimize waste and environmental impact. Some people, like Felix Haisel, assistant professor at Cornell University College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, are working to shift the focus from linear to circular thinking about material consumption with the Circular Construction Lab. Others, like Shannon Goodman, former Perkins&Will architect, helped develop a coalition like ReBuildATL and cofounded the Lifecycle Building Center to break these systemic barriers and keep reusable materials out of landfills. Finally, many people like Sydney Mainster, designer and director of sustainability at the Durst Organization, and Blaine Brownell, architect and editor of the Transmaterial book series found different ways to repurpose demolition building materials like concrete and glass to help reduce overall building waste.

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Next-generation construction technologies are revolutionizing the industry, introducing groundbreaking solutions that streamline processes and redefine the way we build. For example, METROPOLIS Future100 honorees like Chizumi Kano from California College of the Arts, and Andrea Rubero from Rice School of Architecture, found inventive ways to apply natural building materials to create sustainable and culturally attuned projects. Meanwhile, technologies from major brands like Lumion, Nix, and Caesarstone are highlighting the versatility of materials in the built environment. On the other hand, architecture teams like Foster + Partners and the University of London are creating free, open-source technologies to fill gaps in today’s software offerings. Finally, Material Bank, the world’s largest marketplace for those seeking architectural, design, and construction materials, acquired Architizer in hopes of aiding architect users and architectural product manufacturers.

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Today, manufacturers and architects are exploring innovative alternatives that transform concrete and cement to contributors to global sustainable design and construction. Some of these concrete products rely on recycling concrete itself, while others cultivate new, less energy- and carbon-intensive recipes. For example, Biomason and GXN’s Biocement uses non-modified bacteria to grow a cement-like material, while Brimstone created a cement using carbon-free calcium silicate rock. Over in Germany, researchers at the Dresden University of Technology, created the “Cube,” the first building made of carbon-reinforced concrete, which is stronger, lighter and customizable. Similar to that note, WRNS Studio revamped Okland Construction’s Salt Lake City office with a board-formed concrete material that blends natural lumber and a ready mix together. Finally, ETH Zurich’s HiLo building is constructed of a sustainable concrete design blending medieval construction techniques with digital fabrication technology.

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From its roots in traditional building practices to its emergence as a sustainable solution for modern construction, mass timber is bridging the past and future of architecture with eco-friendly innovation. Take ZGF Architects’ revamp of the Portland International Airport with its nine-acre prefab wood roof, tree-lined terminal and multiple skylights bringing in natural light to the facility. Not only did it bring more attention to an already beloved airport, but it became a new milestone for mass timber. Meanwhile, Chicago Wrightwood 659 Gallery’s exhibition “American Framing,” brought attention to softwood lumber construction and how it can continue to evolve in the building industry. Finally, resource professionals like Kenn Busch conducted multiple focus groups and conversations with A&D specifiers to answer questions about obtaining sustainable wood in the United States, in hopes of showing the impact of forest products.

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Innovative advancements in modular construction are transforming the way buildings are constructed, enabling scalable and more sustainable solutions for modern housing projects. For example, take KTGY Architecture + Planning’s “drop and lock” prefab technique, which allows parts to be fabricated off-site, and has been used to create affordable housing developments like Hope on Alvarado in Los Angeles. Also in the Los Angeles area, firm Studio One Eleven used shipping containers to create the development Watts Works, a community of 24 studio apartments that is working to reshape the underbuilt affordable housing sector. Meanwhile, across the country in New York, Liv-Connected’s design-forward units are also helping redefine modular housing and offer more affordable options for the city.

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As construction materials and technologies continue to evolve, they are driving innovation and reshaping the future of the industry. By embracing sustainable solutions, advanced manufacturing techniques, and cutting-edge technologies, the construction sector is poised to deliver more efficient, durable, and eco-friendly projects. Staying ahead in this dynamic landscape requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation, ensuring that the structures we build today meet the challenges of tomorrow.

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