The proposal begins with an analytical approach to the structural systems and material innovations found in Nervi’s applications of reinforced concrete, specifically thin shell systems with novel structural performance and environmental effects. The case studies will focus on the lineage of material innovation from classical to modern times. The research will seek to construct a platform for design speculation incorporating emerging material innovations and computational strategies for managing structural performance, material organization and environmental effects. The examinations of the innovations of Nervi will depend on extensive site visitations in Rome and throughout Italy. It is through this context of historical and incremental innovation in building culture that this project will explore alternative futures with the use of advanced computational strategies as well as physical material research that focus on recent breakthroughs in performance enhancement, fabric reinforcement and environmental performance of emerging material methodologies of concrete and cast material systems.