Reimagining Alternative Technology for Design in the 21st Century

“The age of buildings as ‘machines for living in’ is ending. We live in an increasingly unpredictable world. ‘Fit for purpose’ building in the 21st century must cope with evermore extreme weather events, grid failures, finite natural resources and soaring costs of living. Buildings, and the products and furnishings inside them, must be durable, repairable and adaptable. Alternative technologies re-connect people with the free, natural energy flows of the ecosystems they occupy, enabling them to do more for less, educating them to protect against and exploit those powerful flows where useful. This book is a great read for all who are keen to survive and thrive in a different future.”

Susan Roaf, Professor of Architectural Engineering at Heriot-Watt University, UK

“Sometimes the best idea is one that’s tried, true and ready for a comeback. Kennedy makes a brilliant argument for innovative revivals of ideas, products and goods whose time has once again come. A must-read for anyone looking for a more sustainable future!”

David Sax, journalist based in Canada, and author of the best-selling book, Revenge of the Analog

Brook S. Kennedy is an industrial designer and Associate Professor in the School of Architecture, Arts and Design at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), US. His research focuses on topics in sustainable design, materials and biodesign. Prior to Virginia Tech he spent 15 years in full time practice, including as an Associate Director at Inclusive Design pioneer Smart Design in New York City, where he helped Fortune 500 clients and start-up companies embrace the value of human-centred design processes. He has been honored with numerous international design awards from the Industrial Design Society of America, International Forum (iF), Red Dot (Best of the Best), Spark!, European Product Design Awards and the Chicago Athenaeum among others. His work has been covered in the New York Times, PBS Newshour, Fast Company, NPR and the Washington Post and has been exhibited internationally. He holds more than 20 utility and design patents and has published and exhibited internationally.