Abstract

With modern advancements in technology and the expansion of a globally interconnected network, architects have access to a large range of building materials. Increasing public concern for the environment has prompted architects to prioritize materials that are more sustainable, but varying definitions of sustainability, coupled with unclear guidelines for material selection, repeatedly lead to uncertainty and decision-making challenges within the profession. To address this, a comprehensive methodology such as Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) is needed for the material selection processes. Furthermore, a gap in the literature demonstrates that the application of MCDA for material selection in the Mountain West region of the United States has yet to be assessed. This study examines how MCDA can support the material selection process in the mountainous regions of Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. A mixed-methods approach was utilized including a literature review of 11 relevant material selection studies, a content analysis of 223 representative architectural projects, and a survey of 40 practicing architectural professionals within these regions. These methods were used to identify and evaluate three construction materials emblematic of the region: Wood, Concrete, and Steel, as well as four main material selection criteria: Economic, Technical, Environmental, and Social. Step-Wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) methodology was then applied to the collected data to establish the relative importance of the criteria and sub-criteria and develop overall material rankings. The results show that economic criteria were weighed most heavily, followed by technical, environmental, and social criteria. Material preferences showed a dependency based on which criteria are being evaluated. The findings show that the material selection process is composed of multiple competing priorities, and that MCDA can provide a decision-making framework for evaluating material alternatives and incorporating regional needs early in the design process. Furthermore, MCDA has the potential to be applied to different architectural decision-making processes as well as other regions.

Publication Date

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Architecture (M.Arch.)

Department, Program, or Center

Architecture, Department of

College

Golisano Institute for Sustainability

Advisor

Seth H. Holmes

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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