It is now easier to have an in-depth knowledge of the most representative and innovative construction materials. Thanks to an initiative by COAM, the largest material library in Spain has been created, serving as a national reference center for construction material knowledge.
In a 700 m2 space, members of the professional association, future members, and professionals in the architecture and construction industry now have a meeting place where they can learn, touch, and delve into the materials they may incorporate into their projects. Currently, this permanent and free exhibition features 1,000 different samples, a number that the COAM representatives aim to multiply by five in the coming years.
The gallery of technical solutions for construction covers five areas: finishes, such as ceramics or woods; conditioning, such as insulation or fire protection materials; solutions like home automation or raised floors; structural elements; and the Tectónica space, which will start in January 2017, dissecting reference architectural projects based on the materials used and their construction details.
During a media event, José María Ezquiaga, the Dean of the Official College of Architects of Madrid, explained that this is a new idea in Spain and emphasized the value of this space as a meeting point for knowledge transfer, professional dissemination, and networking. He also highlighted the advantages that the Materials Gallery offers to young professionals who often lack a suitable studio to present their projects. “We want to provide this space to young architects so they can bring their clients here, attend to them, and show them different types of materials,” he emphasized.
Carlos Lahoz, Vice Dean of COAM, and Marina Siles, COAM Member, the main promoters of this consultation and work space, insisted that the material library was not created for profit. “It is primarily a space for our members to receive free advice, but also for other groups and, of course, architects from other cities,” they emphasized.
Regarding the selection of companies that can exhibit their materials in the space, Carlos Lahoz commented that “manufacturing companies that want to exhibit their materials here must meet certain requirements in terms of certifications and sustainability.” Furthermore, they intend for the industry and associations to get involved in the project through talks and training meetings. In this regard, Marina Siles mentioned that there will be a wide variety of annual activities to enable a constant flow of knowledge.
Currently, the following companies have exhibited their materials there: SG Placo, Renolit, Cupa Stone,Cupa Pizarra, Griesser, Junckers, Pergo, Sto, La Paloma. Guardian, Saloni,Velux,Alucoil,Baumit,Niessen,Revestech,Aparici,Allegion,Naturpiedra J. Bernardos , Satecma,Keraben,Fakro,Xella,Total Office, Alcalagres, Promat, Ezarrilaso, Marazzi, Maxiart, Hisbalit, Pladur, The Size, Alus Stock, BASF, Ariño, Duglass, Ursa, Jansen, Mecanocaucho, Schlüter, Luxeperfil, Axalta, Cemex, Formica, Keim,Tradema (tafibra),Abet, Laminati, Texsa, Rockwool, Ingemar, Hiberlux, Heralgi,Emac, Palautec Perlita y Vermiculita ,Xylazel, Knauf, Ecocla y Fundermax.
Proinller Exclusive Sponsor of the Paradiso XXXI mural painting at COAM.