Nirmala Banaji, Founder & Principal Architect, Banaji & Associates
Building materials have become dynamic, expressive elements that shape form, functionality, and meaning.
Nirmala Banaji
What truly defines a modern structure? Is it the clean-lined design or the use of sustainable design concepts? The answer may be both, but today, the architectural landscape relies more on unique and innovative building materials.
For much of the 20th century, architecture leaned heavily on glass and steel. These materials enabled modernism’s minimalist ethos and made high-rise urbanization possible. This shift has led architects to explore alternatives that are versatile and even responsive. Materials like engineered timber, rammed earth, and translucent concrete are no longer niche—they are central to a global design conversation that prioritizes carbon consciousness. The evolving role of these unique materials is changing how we think about permanence and the human experience of space.
New styles have led to a relative evolution and significant advancement in construction methods, made possible by the development of new materials. The low-tech solutions of the past are being re-examined with new eyes. Rammed earth, a process that compacts damp soil into a dense wall form, offers excellent thermal mass and longevity. Similarly, adobe brings regional authenticity to buildings in arid climates and has been modernized through stabilizers that enhance its durability. These earth-based materials reduce reliance on energy-intensive resources and reconnect architecture with its immediate geography.
Architects are increasingly opting for recycled materials in construction. Reclaimed wood, recycled plastics, and scrap metal are finding new life in cutting-edge projects. The use of plastic waste to create colorful cladding is a scalable approach that aligns with environmental goals. Upcycling diverts waste from landfills and introduces an element of storytelling and texture.
Concrete is being used to craft various forms while adding unique elements to design. For instance, in our project ‘Rhythm Hospitality’, material choices such as concrete, glass, and sloping forms were carefully integrated to enhance both structural performance and spatial experience. The roof’s sloping form adds an aesthetic dimension to the structure. Moreover, when complemented with glass and cantilevers, the design presents a unique insight into modern architecture.
