The Mineral Feral Atlas of Boston reframes Boston as a geo-social artifact shaped by both geological and human processes. By blending natural and social sciences, the project investigates the material and cultural dimensions of urban development. Through geological narratives, fieldwork, landscape-based approaches to reconstruct material flows, and archival research, the research examines the histories and relationships between geo-materials, landscapes and humans over the long time. Focusing on the local Roxbury conglomerate and asphalt as case studies for the Atlas, the project explores how geological materials and processes shape Boston's development and identity and intersect with its social and historical fabric. The project culminates in two Materials Salons events and an exhibit. As part of this initiative, donated materials will directly enhance the GSD Materials Collection, enriching it with newly added geo-materials and locally sourced stones. The resource will enrich the academic community by providing tools for study and fostering non-extractive design practices and research.  

The GSD Materials Collection emerged in 2004 as a manifestation of the school’s evolving engagement in materials. It is a collection of material samples ranging from innovative new materials to those found in the everyday built environment. The Materials Collection places emphasis on material composition and functional traits of the material samples, encouraging users to rethink conventional applications and promote material experimentation in design practice. Housed in the Frances Loeb Library's Special Collections, the GSD Materials Collection is a collection of objects which visitors are encouraged to handle and study.