Published online by Cambridge University Press: 22 June 2015
This paper investigates the development process of emergent materials for architecture by looking at the example of Phase Change Materials. In the context of the complex nature of the constructed environment and the functional and performance requirements for buildings, emergent materials have to be carefully tuned for maximum performance. Investigating the relationship of time, space and matter in the design and development process through interdisciplinary endeavors is at the heart of this investigation. Furthermore, a shift from multidisciplinary endeavors to truly interdisciplinary collaboration that crosses the traditional boundaries of the individual fields is suggested.