Smart Materials

The material we use in our projects require rigorous appraisal; from their carbon footprint related to distance they need to be transported, to their cost, durability, environmental and social purpose. Smart materials do not necessarily mean technologically advanced materials, but it could mean creating hybrid materials

such as composite cladding systems that minimize solar heat gain or the use of nanotechnology on pv cells to ensure they remain dust free and optimized. Smart materials can also meet reworking more traditional materials such as straw reinforced clay which we have used to create a low energy horticultural school.