Never one solution: the importance of using a diversity of materials

“A multi-material approach allows for more responsible resource use by selecting materials with lower environmental impact where possible,” says David Connacher, Marketing Manager of West Fraser.

Architects today rarely rely on a single material or solution when designing buildings. Instead, they indulge in a diversity of materials that has never been greater and that allows hybrid solutions to be embraced that make possible the creation of dynamic and resilient buildings that meet the structural, aesthetic, environmental and economic demands of modern society.

Material and product innovation is key to achieving the interlinked goals of sustainability and adaptability that architects must aspire to. The merging of materials allows the design of structures that are both innovative and responsive in a way that would be impossible if relying on just one material. By selecting a hybrid material palette, it is possible to exploit the qualities of each so that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Some provide strength, others thermal mass or acoustic insulation – some are simply aesthetically pleasing. The cost and durability of a structure may also be fine-tuned through the material mix.

A multi-material approach allows for more responsible resource use by selecting materials with lower environmental impact where possible. Combining materials such as wood with steel or concrete can reduce the amount of each material needed, lowering the building’s overall carbon footprint by limiting those with the highest embodied carbon without sacrificing strength or durability. What must not be overlooked when mixing materials is the ability to separate them for reuse, recycling or disposal at end of life.

The most obvious advantage of hybrid solutions is the appearance of the finished building. People respond to textures and colours; by incorporating multiple materials, products and techniques, architects can create buildings that are dynamic, layered and visually engaging. No architect can ignore the benefits of hybrid solutions and their use is likely to become ever more common, reflecting a broader trend in architecture toward flexibility, innovation and responsiveness to the world’s evolving needs.

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com/