Acropolis

Today a new technology framework was announced, codename 'Acropolis'.  It's a UI framework for WPF and is part of the ".NET Client Futures" wave of releases and is similar in concept to CAB and SCSF.

Some of the benefits you can reap from Acropolis will include the ability to

• Quickly create WPF enabled user experiences for your client applications.
• Build client applications from reusable, connectable, modules that allow you to easily create complex, business-focused applications in less time.
• Integrate and host your modules in applications such as Microsoft Office, or quickly build stand-alone client interfaces.
• Change the look and feel of your application quickly using built-in themes, or custom designs using XAML.
• Add features such as workflow navigation and user-specific views with minimal coding.
• Manage, update, and deploy your application modules quickly and easily.

They key downloadables include the first CTP along with an introduction video, both available from https://windowsclient.net/Acropolis.

I also really recommend keeping an eye on the discussion forums.  It's currently pretty sparse, but as this technology gains more traction they will inevitably become a key resource.