This thought-provoking book presents a compelling argument for moving architecture from a part-by-part, linear approach to an integrated one that brings together technology, materials, and production methods. Using examples from several industries that have successfully made the change to an integrated component approach, these visionary authors lay the groundwork for a dramatic and much-needed change in the building industry. * Packed with graphics that illustrate how and why change is needed * Examples from the auto, shipbuilding, and aerospace industries illustrating how to improve quality while saving time and money * Redefines the roles of architects, materials scientists, process engineers, and contractors

In 1984 Stephen Kieran, FAIA, FAAR, and James Timberlake, FAIA, FAAR founded the firm KieranTimberlake Associates LLP, located in Philadelphia. KieranTimberlake Associates LLP has been awarded 40 design awards during the past 20 years, including two Gold Medals and two Distinguished Building Awards from the American Institute of Architects.

Stephen Kieran received his Bachelor's degree from Yale University, magna cum laude, and his Master of Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania.

James Timberlake received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Detroit, with honors, and his Master of Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania, with honors.

Stephen Kieran and James Timberlake were recipients of the Rome Prize (in 1981 and 1983 respectively) from the American Academy in Rome, and have served as Eero Saarinen Distinguished Professor of Design at Yale University. They were awarded the inaugural 2001 Benjamin Latrobe Fellowship for architectural design research by the AIA College of Fellows. They are also the Max Fisher Chair recipients at the University of Michigan for Spring 2004. They currently serve as Adjunct Professors at the University of Pennsylvania School of Design where they lead a graduate research studio that explores the emerging interface between architecture as high art and the integration of developing technologies in materials science and product engineering.

They lecture internationally about the processes and methods that underlie transfer technologies and what has been their involvement in this new architecture. Their firm's work has been published and featured in Manual, the Architecture of KieranTimberlake (Princeton Architectural Press, 2002); and numerous publications including Architectural Record, Cambridge University's Architectural Research Quarterly, Interiors, Interior Design, WIRED Magazine, and The New York Times.