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COLLECTION
The Materials Lab collection is one of the largest and most comprehensive material collections of its kind at any college or university in the country, if not the world. Currently, the Materials Lab has a growing collection, currently standing at 25,000 + material samples and corresponding product literature (manufacturer catalogues, brochures, multimedia, etc.). The collection mainly consists of traditional building construction materials; however, it strives to be reflective of the current building and design market and has a particular focus on smart, innovative, emerging and sustainable design materials and technologies. One of the Materials Lab’s goals is to maintain a current and up-to-date collection, and its staff is continually contacting manufacturers to acquire new and innovative samples.
The collection is organized by the Construction Specifications Institute’s (CSI) Master Format to familiarize students with the industry standards during their undergraduate and graduate education before entering the design profession.
CIRCULATION
Most materials can be loaned for a one week period for presentations and/or research purposes, as well as inspiration and a hands-on-material approach to studio and design projects. There are a few select items that are categorized as ‘High Demand Materials’ and are non-circulating or limited to a three-day loan period. All materials are available for circulation to the entire university, alumni, local design professionals and the general Austin community.
HOURS
Semester Hours:
Monday – Fridays | 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Summer & Holiday Hours:
Monday – Fridays | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Hours are subjected to change according to university holidays and intersession schedule. Scheduled tours and open houses are available for prospective faculty, students and the public.
CONTACT
University Co-op Materials Resource Center
Materials Lab Curator:
Zaneta Hong | zhong@austin.utexas.edu
General Inquiry:
materialslab@austin.utexas.edu
Physical Location:
University of Texas, Austin
West Mall Office Building | Room 3.102
Mailing Address:
University of Texas, Austin
School of Architecture
1 University Station, B7500
Austin, Texas 78712
Phone:
(512) 232-5969