Aluminium: A Studio Design Guide

Aluminium is a versatile and durable material that provides many benefits for architects and designers, such as strength, durability, affordability, and sustainability. This book offers an inspirational overview of the use of aluminium in architecture and infrastructure, as well as a technical level of detail to show how architects can design with it. It also provides access to state-of-the-art research into the best practice in the application of aluminium to architecture, with exemplar case studies to demonstrate its potential and application.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2023
Publisher: RIBA Publishing

Aluminum is a versatile and durable material that offers numerous benefits for design. With its exceptional strength, durability, and affordability, aluminum provides us with a wide range of options beyond just product selection. When properly understood, aluminum becomes a valuable tool for designing.

In the context of urbanization, where over half of the world's population lives in cities, there is a growing need for sustainable and attractive architecture. This can only be achieved by utilizing resources efficiently, maximizing the use of materials, and employing advanced technologies such as finite element analysis and computer-aided design. Aluminum can play a significant role in achieving affordable and durable architecture.

Recycling aluminum requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce primary aluminum, and it can be recycled almost infinitely without losing any of its properties. This makes aluminum a highly sustainable material, as it reduces the environmental impact of resource extraction and waste disposal.

Combining an inspirational overview of aluminum's use in architecture and infrastructure with a technical level of detail, this book showcases the usefulness and versatility of aluminum. It demonstrates how architects can incorporate aluminum into their designs, from curtain walling and cladding roofing to structural considerations. The book provides access to state-of-the-art research into the best practices in applying aluminum to architecture, covering various aspects such as curtain walling, cladding roofing, and structural considerations.

Through exemplar case studies, the book showcases the potential and application of aluminum in various design scenarios. It emphasizes the materials design flexibility and how it can work well with other materials to create innovative and sustainable solutions.

In addition to its technical benefits, aluminum offers several primary advantages, including its flexibility, durability, sustainable properties, and cost-effectiveness. Whether you are a first-year student, a seasoned designer, or an engineer, this book provides an accessible and comprehensive dive into the uses and benefits of aluminum. It offers valuable insights and practical knowledge that can help you enhance your design skills and contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure.

In conclusion, aluminum is a versatile and durable material that offers numerous benefits for design. By understanding its properties and applications, architects can create innovative and sustainable solutions that contribute to the betterment of our built environment. This book provides a valuable resource for architects, designers, and engineers looking to explore the potential of aluminum in their work.

Dimension: 250 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781859467060