Book excerpt: 'Taking Shape' explores the evolution of scientific and academic theories that have resulted in the concept of sustainability. Susannah Hagan uses this as a basis to argue for developments in the future and argues that these theories are not 'just an intellectual and aesthetic regression' as they are often perceived to be. By focusing on the impact of the new theories of sustainable technology and new materials in architecture, Hagan moves the discourse and practice of environmental sustainability within architecture towards a greater degree of awareness of both its cultural significance and cultural potential. In short, it demonstrates the capacity of sustainable architecture to embrace cultural and technical innovation.