This book discusses and illustrates the aesthetics, use and shaping of structural materials in the design and construction of a sustainable built environment. It develops the argument for, and an appreciation of, novel and innovative structural engineering forms through the comparative choice of construction materials currently available for buildings. This includes well-established materials and technologies, such as masonry, timber, structural steel and concrete in its many forms, as well as re-emerging structural materials, including a range of natural materials as timber, hemp lime and straw bales, as well as aluminium, glass, pre-stressed membranes, steel cables and nets. Beautifully designed with 250 full colour illustrations to accompany the text, the book aims to help its readers in creating a delightful, sustainable and effective architecture.