The product of an innovative research project realized in cooperation between three Swiss universities—École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne’s School of Architecture, the College of Architecture and Technology in Fribourg, and the University of Fribourg—the smart living lab is a research and development center for the built environment of the future. This high-tech structure also serves as an emblem of the cooperative’s aim to translate academic research into actual buildings. A new series of books entitled Towards 2050 will showcase the ambitious undertaking at various stages.

The inaugural volume in the series, Thinking highlights preliminary research from the smart living lab and considers visions for sustainable buildings. Featuring interviews with leading experts, the book lays out the myriad challenges and opportunities the project is likely to face, as well as its considerable potential to drive change.

Marilyne Andersen is professor of sustainable construction technologies and head of the Laboratory of Integrated Performance in Design at the EPFL’s School of Architecture. Emmanuel Rey is professor of architecture and sustainable construction technologies and head of the Laboratory of Architecture and Sustainable Technologies at the EPFL’s School of Architecture and a partner with Swiss firm Bauart Architects and Planners.