Materials Innovations Past/Present/Future

Publication Date

Spring 4-22-2026

Presentation Length

Poster/Gallery presentation

College

O'More College of Architecture & Design

Department

Interior Design

Presentation Type

Article

Summary

PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE FOR ARCHITECTURE SPARK SYMPOSIUM

Hannah Collins, Kate George & Jayden Benfield

PAST

The history of architecture can be seen all the way back to the dawn of civilization. Early as the Neolithic period. Humans began to develop design as a necessity with building dwellings and ceremonial enclosures. Society began to grow more complex and bring in new architectural systems. One of the first architectural elements we can see is ziggurats. Large temples that served as religious and administrative centers in ancient Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt followed behind. The Greeks and Romans began to lay down classical architecture and left a legacy that can still be seen and admired throughout the Mediterranean world. Each historical Architecture period  trends to reflect the artistic  social trends of the time.Materials that can be seen are mud, stone, timber, concrete, steel and glass.

PRESENT

Contemporary architecture is shaping a new design model partially influenced by various elements of the preceding Modern Movement, as the intentions and principles fostered by architects have evolved since the digitalization of the 21st century. This societal and technological shift has contributed to a move away from strictly historically inspired designs toward approaches that often prioritize flexibility and, in some cases, more capricious forms. Today’s buildings are frequently designed to accommodate a multitude of functions over their lifespans, therefore utilizing adaptable materials and construction systems that can be modified to support multiple uses.

FURTURE

Architecture is rapidly moving towards sustainability, AI assisted design, modular and resilient construction. Architects are focusing on creating buildings that use less energy and overall have a smaller impact on our environment. New technology is constantly surfacing, including the growth of A.I. which architects are using to test ideas and design more efficiently. Also, modular construction is becoming more popular because they produce less waste and can be constructed quickly. Overall, these changes will make the future of architecture more efficient and environmentally responsible.

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