Abstract. This paper addresses the foundations of data-model transformation. A catalog of data mappings is presented which includes abstraction and representation relations and associated constraints. These are justified in an algebraic style via the pointfree-transform, a technique whereby predicates are lifted to binary relation terms (of the algebra of programming) in a two-level style encompassing both data and operations. This approach to data calculation, which also includes transformation of recursive data models into “flat ” database schemes, is offered as alternative to standard database design from abstract models. The calculus is also used to establish a link between the proposed transformational style and bidirectional lenses developed in the context of the classical view-update problem.