It is not so much our discovery of new materials that drives innovation, enriching our culture and identity, but more how scientists, designers, craftspeople and architects interpret these material.s to find new uses and ways to transform them. Even though the science of materials is still in its infancy, we are reaching a stage where physicat barriers are being broken down and re-formed= where traditional archetypes are being re-evaluated. Classifying materials is no longer as straightforward as merely grouping pl.astic, glass or wood for example. New composites are continually being formed leading to new products with fresh applications in ever-changing contexts. It is impossible to discuss this incredibly exciting time in the evolution of materials without reference to the uses and forms to which they have been applied.