The Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) is preparing to launch a new resource that is set to save practices time while also reinforcing safety and sustainability for product specification.
The new Products and Materials Library will be released in October. It is an online catalogue specifically designed for architects that caters to their unique search requirements for specification and procurement.
The new library will enable AIA members to search, scroll and save products, materials and fixtures.
The search engine includes specialist certifications and registers, allowing architects to fast track how they go about finding product and material solutions. It includes links to specification documentation and BIM library files.
In a significant step forward for increased transparency, the new library also enhances architects’ ability to better interrogate supply chains by assisting them to procure products and materials that have sustainability certifications and modern slavery registers.
AIA Chief Executive Officer, Julia Cambage, said the tool will substantively enhance day-to-day practice for members.
“Solving the searchability issues lacking in existing libraries will save Institute members a significant amount of time.
“This is a tool designed by industry for industry that collates all the information architects need in the design development phase to speed up their search prior to specification,” she said.
“The library will also streamline the process architects need to go through when safely specifying products and materials.”
Product and material procurement has been a focus for regulators following the release of the Shergold-Weir Building Confidence report, which continues to drive a wide range of reforms in the built environment.
The new library is a win-win for manufacturers and materials suppliers helping them to match their products better and more quickly with their specifier’s needs and generate a direct connection.
It catalogues hundreds of products and materials including flooring, finishes, fixtures, building materials, lighting and smart technology, windows and doors. These are categorised and searchable through the following certifications and registrations:
- ISCA
- ISO
- GECA
- FSC
- PEFC
- Climate Active
- Australian Government
- Product Stewardship
- Australian Made
- CodeMark
- EPD Australasia
- Modern Slavery Register
The new library was developed with insights from the AIA’s strategy and policy teams, as well as members.
Project lead, Amanda Jennings, said the platform offers a targeted and effective mechanism for suppliers and manufacturers to connect with customers.
“This is a highly sophisticated tool that will build better connections between suppliers and specifiers,” Ms Jennings shared.
“The library provides an unprecedented level of product exposure and brand awareness to an engaged and highly relevant audience of specifiers.”
“It is a much more effective mechanism that allows architects to create their own lists of preferred products, fixtures and materials from the library.”
Suppliers and manufacturers seeking to have their products and materials included in the new library should visit www.architecture.com.au/about/products-and-materials-library or contact amanda.jennings@architecture.com.au
Architects seeking more information about the library will find it on the Australian Institute of Architect’s Community platform after launch in October.