The choice and use of materials in interior architecture and interior design is endless but the appropriate choice and correct use by the designer can have the most dramatic or the most subtle of effects. This book provides introduction to various materials.

Introduction. Stone, brick and concrete: History and context; International icons; Sustainability; Innovations and the future. Metals: History and context; International icons; Sustainability; Innovations and the future. Wood: History and context; International icons; Sustainability; Innovations and the future. Glass: History and context; International icons; Sustainability; Innovations and the future. Plastics: History and context; International icons; Sustainability; Innovations and the future. Composites: History and context; International icons; Sustainability; Innovations and the future. Tiles: History and context; International icons; Sustainability. Coatings and coverings: History and context; Contemporary uses; Innovative appropriation; Sustainability. Conclusion. Glossary. Resources. Index. Acknowledgements. Working with ethics.

Very clear, laid out in a logical and accessible manner ... The students found the Interior Architecture books very accessible and love the contemporary design case studies they contain. The books really help them to build a working knowledge of their design specialism. * Jean Whitehead , University College Falmouth, UK *Another really inspirational AVA book; the illustrations engage and the text informs. There is plenty in this volume to keep students thinking about the aesthetics of surface and materials. * Simon Dodsworth, KLC School of Design, UK *The book was well laid out and well considered in presentation and design. The text was well written and pitched well for the student market. It had excellent examples drawn from different types of projects. * Nuala Rooney, University of Ulster, UK *A great addition to the Basics Interior Architecture series. As ever strong on the collation of case studies (both historical and contemporary) into a bite-size format. Clear chapters relating to the history and use of key materials. * Jean Whitehead, University College Falmouth, UK *Yet again another brilliant resource for Interior Architecture and Design students. * Michele Thompson, Bishop Burton College, UK *