Lorraine Farrelly is an architect who co-ordinates degree courses in architecture and interior design at the University of Portsmouth, UK. She also lectures at universities around the world on representation in architecture. Lorraine examines in universities in the UK, has taught at various European universities and has presented her research on architecture and the European city at conferences internationally. She has written several books about contemporary architecture and interior design, as well as articles on architectural drawing, architectural education and contemporary architecture.

'Inspiring, well illustrated and relevant to the academic curricula.' Boris Ceranic, University of Derby, UK. 'Visually exciting, easy to navigate and includes architects and architecture of great significance.' Anna Downs, Peterborough Regional College, UK. 'It makes an admirable 'primer' to architecture generally. The text is well conceived, relevant and timely. It is very accessible and clear.' Christopher Platt, University of Strathclyde, UK. 'Good professional knowledge in an accessible format. I like the ethical questions added at the end.' Stephanie Wooster, University of the West of England, UK. 'An excellent collection of case studies.' Paola Michialino, Newcastle University, UK.

• Introduction. How to get the most out of this book. Brick and stone: Timeline: Brick and stone; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Antonio Gaudi; Woolf Architects: Brick Leaf House; Eric Parry Architects: 30 Finsbury Square. Concrete: Timeline: Concrete; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Tadao Ando; Zaha Hadid: The Central Building; Axel Schultes and Charlotte Frank: Baumschulenweg Crematorium. Timber: Timeline: Timber; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Edward Cullinan; Sean Godsell: The Carter/Tucker House; Glenn Howells Architects: The Savill Building. Glass and steel: Timeline: Glass and steel; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Ludwig Mies van der Rohe; Foster + Partners: The McLaren Technology Centre; Grimshaw Architects: Fundacion Caixa Galicia. Composite materials: Timeline: Composite materials; Origins and chronology; Cultural and material context; Application; Grand master: Charles Eames; Stanton Williams Architects: House of Fraser, Bristol; dRMM: The Kingsdale School. Innovation, sustainability and the future: Directions; Innovation; Sustainability; The future. Conclusion. Samples panel. Glossary and picture credits. Acknowledgements.