Material samples on display on a metal shelving system
Materials Lab

MATERIALS LAB EVENTS

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LATEST NEWS

The Materials Lab is a resource dedicated to in-depth material investigation in design. Our circulating, ever-expanding library of material product samples and assemblies was founded in 2001. By supporting advanced and interdisciplinary material research, development, and fabrication, the Materials Lab provides the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to design and construct a better built environment.

In addition to our material library, the Materials Lab houses a rotating exhibition space, an extensive collection of circulating books, a “free samples” section of surplus materials, and individual and group workspaces. The Materials Lab also organizes a diverse range of programming including hands-on workshops, lectures, and other events.

STAFF

LOOKING FOR MATERIALS?

Concrete samples on a shelf on display in the Materials Lab

Browse the online database or visit our collection of 29,000+ samples in person. Material samples can be loaned for hands-on inspiration and presentations. Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to check out material samples with a UT EID.

TOUR THE MATERIALS LAB

Location + Contact

West Mall Office Building (WMB) 3.102
The University of Texas at Austin
(512) 232-5969
materialslab@austin.utexas.edu

OPERATING HOURS
Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fall and Spring semesters

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

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COLLECTION HIGHLIGHTS

​​​​​​​The material library is ever-growing and our material researchers are always on the lookout for new materials. If you come across a product that you think we should add, email us! 

FOLLOW US

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  • Instagram Post
    How do you solve a “problem” wall? Walls with cracks, crumbling plaster and outdated textures don’t necessarily need replacement. One solution is glass textile wallcoverings, which add a decorative layer that also reinforces.
    @materials_lab

    How do you solve a “problem” wall? Walls with cracks, crumbling plaster and outdated textures don’t necessarily need replacement. One solution is glass textile wallcoverings, which add a decorative layer that also reinforces.

  • Instagram Post
    This looping wooden rail was formed without steam bending, incisions, or additives. How so? It’s made from Bendywood®, wood that has been pre-compressed.
    @materials_lab

    This looping wooden rail was formed without steam bending, incisions, or additives. How so? It’s made from Bendywood®, wood that has been pre-compressed.

  • Instagram Post
    What soil mix is best in living walls? Sometimes the solution is no soil at all. Coconut coir is as an effective soil amendment or base for soilless alternatives.
    @materials_lab

    What soil mix is best in living walls? Sometimes the solution is no soil at all. Coconut coir is as an effective soil amendment or base for soilless alternatives.

  • Instagram Post
    What’s a quick and easy way to build a retaining wall? Sourcing super lightweight units is one approach.
    @materials_lab

    What’s a quick and easy way to build a retaining wall? Sourcing super lightweight units is one approach.

  • Instagram Post
    The Materials Lab is now open! Welcome back to all our new and continuing students, staff, and faculty.<br>
    @materials_lab

    The Materials Lab is now open! Welcome back to all our new and continuing students, staff, and faculty.

  • Instagram Post
    As the semester wraps up, the Materials Lab is closing for the summer. Wishing everyone a great break—see you in the fall! <br />Big congrats to all the @utsoa grads!<br /><br />📸 Photo taken during the opening of "Eco Illusion" at the Materials Lab by Anya Mitchell
    @materials_lab

    As the semester wraps up, the Materials Lab is closing for the summer. Wishing everyone a great break—see you in the fall!
    Big congrats to all the @utsoa grads!

    📸 Photo taken during the opening of "Eco Illusion" at the Materials Lab by Anya Mitchell

  • Instagram Post
    We’re ending the academic year with one more spotlight on biodegradable foam. This one is from Algenesis, whose Soleic A/B PU system turns non-food-based plant oils into high-performance, biodegradable polyurethane.
    @materials_lab

    We’re ending the academic year with one more spotlight on biodegradable foam. This one is from Algenesis, whose Soleic A/B PU system turns non-food-based plant oils into high-performance, biodegradable polyurethane.

  • Instagram Post
    Keeping plants hydrated and healthy is a big driver in the design of living wall assemblies. One simple strategy is using a felt layer that retains moisture and nutrients.
    @materials_lab

    Keeping plants hydrated and healthy is a big driver in the design of living wall assemblies. One simple strategy is using a felt layer that retains moisture and nutrients.

  • Instagram Post
    Curious to know what material products are featured in our exhibition “Eco Illusions: The Plastic Behind the Green”? Here, we highlight a hillside terracing system made of 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE.
    @materials_lab

    Curious to know what material products are featured in our exhibition “Eco Illusions: The Plastic Behind the Green”? Here, we highlight a hillside terracing system made of 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE.