Select Page

PRISM AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 EDITION

How Design Firms Can Build a Resilient Future
Solutions to today’s challenges in education facility design: Q&A with SCB

Featured topics : education facility design projects and latest technology, waterproofing, civic/community projects and curtain wall technology

1650 Arch Street project. Photo Credit: Meyer Design/Don Pearse Photographers

The building is organized into a series of stacked “neighborhoods” that are connected by large central atrium. Each neighborhood is made up of classrooms and offices that are linked by a staircase, and features a central gathering space. See The John and Kathy Schreiber Center at Loyola University Chicago

[adrotate banner="7"]

Feature article

How Design Firms Can Build a Resilient Future

How Design Firms Can Build a Resilient Future

Resilience is multi-faceted when it comes to the built environment. The definition is not simply about helping communities build back to better prepare for future events. It is also about responding to stresses on a project that have implications beyond one site. It is about respecting the memory of past disasters so failures are not repeated in the future.

read more

Feature article

The UC Merced Academic Classroom and Office Building is defined by its signature design elements – its loggias and associated external stair.

Solutions to today’s challenges in education facility design: Q&A with SCB

Solutions to today’s challenges in education facility design: Q&A with SCB

PRISM was given the opportunity to ask four experts at SCB about their experience planning and designing education facilities, and the solutions they provide to overcome today’s challenges and create sustainable and attractive learning environments. SCB Is involved in the planning and design a number of prominent education facility projects including University of California, Merced, and the Loyola University Chicago.

read more

Feature article

The building is organized into a series of stacked “neighborhoods” that are connected by large central atrium. Each neighborhood is made up of classrooms and offices that are linked by a staircase, and features a central gathering space.

The John and Kathy Schreiber Center at Loyola University Chicago

The John and Kathy Schreiber Center at Loyola University Chicago

The John and Kathy Schreiber Center is the new home of Loyola University Chicago’s Quinlan School of Business Administration. Located on a small corner parcel in the University’s dense urban Water Tower Campus, the restricted site required an innovative, 10-story vertical design solution to accommodate a 150,000-square-foot program composed of lecture and active learning classrooms, a business analytics lab, faculty offices, career services center, numerous breakout spaces, and a conference center.

read more

Featured project

Clemson University Core Campus Dining Facility. Photo: © Jonathan Hillyer

Clemson University creates “chapel for food”

Clemson University creates “chapel for food”

Clemson University, as part of its redevelopment of its “Core Campus,” hired Sasaki to design a new dining facility that addressed the growing demand for contemporary dining options in support of the university’s goals of retaining more sophomore students on campus and maintaining its position in the top 20 national public universities.

read more

Featured project

Lacombe Lift Station Concrete Waterproofing Project. Credit: W. R. MEADOWS, INC.

Lacombe Lift Station Concrete Waterproofing Project

Lacombe Lift Station Concrete Waterproofing Project

The Lacombe Lift Station was recently built in Red Deer in Alberta, Canada, to accommodate the area’s population increase as well as to upgrade the existing sewage/wastewater systems that served the local population.  The engineers on the project, Stantec, wanted a proven, leak-proof waterproofing system to protect the station and selected W. R. MEADOWS’ building envelope membranes.

read more

Education Facility Design Projects

Colorado College’s Tutt Library is the largest academic library in the country to achieve net-zero construction. Photo credit: Jennifer Coombes

World Architecture Festival Education – Future Projects: CO Architects, Miller Medical Education Center, Miami, United States of America

University Housing Solutions DSU housing plans. Rendering by Kimmel Bogrette Architecture + Site, courtesy of University Housing Solutions

Historic Bowles Hall earns LEED Silver

Historic Bowles Hall earns LEED Silver

In addition to LEED standards, the renovation had to meet Historic Building Code requirements for life safety and ADA compliance. The renovation scored high marks for innovation in design and substantial improvements in water use efficiency. In addition to the LEED Silver standard, Bowles Hall performs 20 percent in excess of the California Energy Commission’s Title 24 energy efficiency standards.

read more

Universidad EAN corner view. © 2015 William McDonough + Partners

RISE on Apache. Credit: Shepley Bulfinch

Shepley Bulfinch completes luxury student residence building at Arizona State University

Shepley Bulfinch completes luxury student residence building at Arizona State University

“For over a decade, CA Student Living has been providing high-end, highly amenitized alternatives to traditional off-campus housing in college towns across the country, and Shepley Bulfinch has been a trusted partner in helping us deliver communities that continually set new standards in student housing,” said JJ Smith, president, CA Student Living. “Shepley Bulfinch’s design for RISE on Apache creates an impeccable living-learning environment that supports productivity, promotes health and well-being, and fosters community connectivity in an enjoyable atmosphere.”

read more

Pathways Innovation Center featuring EXTECH’s LIGHTWALL 3440 dual wall system. Photo credit: Astula Inc.

Pathways Innovation Center and Roosevelt High School feature EXTECH custom sunscreen and translucent façade

Pathways Innovation Center and Roosevelt High School feature EXTECH custom sunscreen and translucent façade

Beyond the need for new and updated school buildings, the School District’s overall goal was to provide an environment that allows for the advanced technology necessary to “prepare children for success in a world we cannot yet imagine,” says Scott Krenner, the project’s design lead and senior associate at Cuningham Group. “Rather than follow a traditional vocational approach, this high school presents new pathways to success; a way to shine that may not be found in standardized tests. Here, their inventive thinking and new skills are much more visible.”

read more

The daylit central atrium is the new focus of the Broad College community, facilitating events, informal interactions and café for campus-wide use. Design by LMN Architects.

University Housing Solutions DSU housing plans. Rendering by Kimmel Bogrette Architecture + Site, courtesy of University Housing Solutions

UC Riverside School of Medicine Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) Remodel. Credit: BNBuilders

Building Materials used in Education Facility Design

Delaware Technical Community College’s Stanton Campus Courtyard renovation. Photo credit: Charles Uniatowski Photography, courtesy of EXTECH, Inc.

EXTECH provides Delaware Tech with translucent courtyard canopy

EXTECH provides Delaware Tech with translucent courtyard canopy

In response to Delaware Tech’s clear goals, Exterior Technologies, Inc. (EXTECH) worked with project architect Tevebaugh Associates to create a sweeping, translucent canopy using its SKYSHADE 3300® system. Tevebaugh principal, Shawn Crowley, AIA notes, “A design challenge was to provide a canopy that provided maximum shade to the courtyard, while not overpowering the space, which is enclosed on all four sides.”

read more

Village Center Dining and Community Commons at the University of Colorado Boulder. Credit: SageGlass

SageGlass completes dynamic glass installation at University of Colorado Boulder

SageGlass completes dynamic glass installation at University of Colorado Boulder

“By incorporating innovative building materials like SageGlass, students will be able to dine, study and relax in an environment free from heat gain and glare,” said Tom Goodhew, assistant director of planning and design at CU Boulder. “The use of such materials also helps make the Village Center a model for sustainability, a goal CU Boulder strives to achieve with all of its building initiatives.”

read more

North Carolina State University. Photo: © Builders

Mediamesh University: Transforming University Buildings with Dynamic Media Façades

Mediamesh University: Transforming University Buildings with Dynamic Media Façades

As architects, designers and facility managers seek to transform the traditional and staid façades of educational facilities into dynamic, vivid communication mediums, they have increasingly turned to transparent media façades constructed of metal mesh. While metal mesh and metal fabric have been used for decades in institutional architecture and design, it is only recently that the A&D community has begun to incorporate media-enabled products into college campuses around the country.

read more

Located near Seattle, Issaquah Middle School features a brick facade accented with architectural metal wall panels by AEP Span. Steelscape pre-treated the panels, which are used throughout the campus, with Duranar GR clear coating.

Steelscape pre-painted metal with DURANAR GR graffiti-resistant coating by PPG provides industry-first protection for Washington school building

Steelscape pre-painted metal with DURANAR GR graffiti-resistant coating by PPG provides industry-first protection for Washington school building

Scott Cooley, vice president of sales, Steelscape, said that applying Duranar GR clear coating on metal wall panels enables manufacturers to offer architects an exclusive combination of design versatility and graffiti control. “In addition to offering architects high-performing and beautifully designed metal wall products, our customers now can deliver an affordable solution that makes it easier for building owners to maintain and preserve their property.”

read more

Civic/Community projects

Houston Area Safety Council, Pasadena, Texas. Credit: ©Slyworks Photography

A new home for the Houston Area Safety Council

A new home for the Houston Area Safety Council

The new state-of-the-art campus features a striking look that is emphasized by the glittering Texas sun and colorful sunrises and sunsets. Beyond the façade, which is a source of pride for employees and visitors, the facility holds 65,000 square feet of comfortable training space situated on 34 acres of land, with room to grow.

read more

Little Rock’s Robinson Center at twilight. This historic National Register structure went through a complete reimagining, and reopened last November after completing a 28-month, $70 million renovation, restoration and expansion. It consists of a state-of-the-art performance hall and a new conference center addition. The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau announced that this project had achieved LEED Gold certification at a press conference held on August 22, 2017.

Little Rock’s Robinson Center Renovation and Expansion Project has achieved LEED Gold

Little Rock’s Robinson Center Renovation and Expansion Project has achieved LEED Gold

David Porter, AIA, Principal, Polk Stanley Architects, noted, “The design team is thrilled to be part of a sustainable story that started with a monumental decision by the City of Little Rock to reinvest in the Robinson Center and is now manifested in a LEED Gold Rating.  It’s a testimony to a community that values historic architecture and has the vision to reimagine it in new ways for future generations.”

read more

Aarhus, Denmark, is the European Capital of Culture in 2017. A huge transparent dome of glue-laminated timber, Dome of Visions, will serve as the Aarhus municipal pavilion. Photo: Helle Arensbak & Atelier Kristoffer Tejlgaard

Metsä Wood: Dome of Visions made from sustainable wood

Metsä Wood: Dome of Visions made from sustainable wood

“Wood as a building material has obvious advantages giving sustainability for the building industry. In principle, wood is a material that comes from a solar-powered factory”, says Kristoffer Tejlgaard referring to the ability of trees to extract CO2 from the atmosphere and store it as carbon in their trunks, solely by means of solar energy.

read more

The design-build team, led by SVA Architects and Turner Construction Company, is assisted by consultants: KPFF Consulting Engineers, LPG Engineering, MA Engineers, Wimmer Yamada and Caughey Landscape Architecture, Brummitt Energy Associates, NORESCO and Michael Baker International.

Aerial view of the existing Baltimore Convention Center and study site.

LMN Architects begin work on Baltimore Convention Center Expansion Study

LMN Architects begin work on Baltimore Convention Center Expansion Study

Mark Reddington, FAIA, Design Partner for LMN Architects on the project notes, “This project has the opportunity to shape the future of downtown Baltimore, connecting neighborhoods, building community and creating a place for broader social and civic engagement, while enhancing the economic vitality of the city. We are honored to be a part of this talented team, and to work on such a pivotal project for the City of Baltimore.”

read more

Latest in curtain wall technology

Chicago O’Hare Airport’s Terminal 5 expansion. Photography courtesy of Goldray Glass

Chicago O’Hare Airport’s Terminal 5 expansion features Starphire Ultra-Clear glass by Vitro Architectural Glass

Chicago O’Hare Airport’s Terminal 5 expansion features Starphire Ultra-Clear glass by Vitro Architectural Glass

Designed by Epstein Global and commissioned by the Westfield Group, a two-story interior curtainwall serves as a partition separating secured and non-secured areas of the airport terminal. Starphire glass panels fabricated by Goldray Industries, line up against one another and create a continuous image that shows the gradual changes in color and texture that can be seen when heading inland from Lake Michigan to Chicago and on to Illinois’ rural cornfields.

read more

The ribbon was cut at AkzoNobel’s coatings facility in Columbus, OH on a $2 million addition that will increase capacity and enable greater flexibility in meeting customer demands.

AkzoNobel invests in enhanced color capabilities for coil coatings at Columbus site

AkzoNobel invests in enhanced color capabilities for coil coatings at Columbus site

AkzoNobel, a leading manufacturer of coil coatings for the metal construction industry, announces the completion of a new, dedicated color mixing cell for its TRINAR® coatings at the Columbus, OH production facility. Designed to provide the highest level of quality and service to coil coating customers, the cell is equipped with a new state-of-the-art Automatic Dosing Unit (ADU) and incorporates the most advanced quality inspection techniques. These enhanced capabilities will enable high color precision and faster paint production.

read more
Technoform Bautec announces low-conductivity pressure plate options to increase curtain walls’ thermal performance

Technoform Bautec announces low-conductivity pressure plate options to increase curtain walls’ thermal performance

Technoform Bautec developed the new polyamide pressure plate with the support of its global partner, YKK AP. The polyamide composition creates a highly effective thermal barrier that helps insulate 500 times better than aluminum. Curtain wall systems using the new pressure plate design have demonstrated performance increases of up to a 20 percent gain in U-Factor and a 10 percent gain in condensation resistance when used with standard low-emissivity glass, air infill and an aluminum box-type spacer.

read more

HIGHLIGHTED AWARDS

Oakwood Olympic & Olive in Downtown Los Angeles. Photographer: Darren Bradley

Top landscape architecture projects earn 2017 ASLA Professional Awards

Top landscape architecture projects earn 2017 ASLA Professional Awards

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) announced its 38 professional award recipients for 2017. Selected from 465 entries, the awards recognize the best of landscape architecture in the general design, analysis and planning, communications, research, and residential design categories from the United States and around the world.

read more

Brick in Architecture Award (Higher Education) Best in Class winner: Kent State University College of Architectural & Environmental Design. Weiss/Manfredi and Richard L. Bowen + Associates Inc. Photographer: Jim Maguire Photography

Society of British and International Design (SBID) Healthcare Design Winner: University Medical Center New Orleans. Design Practice: NBBJ.

Finalists announced: SBID Awards 2017

Finalists announced: SBID Awards 2017

The SBID Awards is regarded as one of the most prestigious accolades in the interior design industry representing talent and design excellence across all corners of the industry.

read more

OJB Landscape Architecture wins the ASLA Design Award of Excellence for Klyde Warren Park,& a 5-acre freeway deck park in Dallas. Credit: OJB Landscape Architecture

Klyde Warren Park receives ASLA Design Award of Excellence

Klyde Warren Park receives ASLA Design Award of Excellence

OJB Founder and President, James Burnett, FASLA, said “Receiving this award is an incredible honor for our firm and we are delighted to join the distinguished list of past recipients. This park has been transformative on so many levels; socially, economically and environmentally. It has changed the way people imagine public space in Dallas. The city was ready to heal the big divide that separated Downtown from Uptown and Klyde Warren Park was the answer. We were inspired by our clients’ determination to see this decade long project become a reality.”

read more

World Architecture Festival Education – Future Projects: CO Architects, Miller Medical Education Center, Miami, United States of America

Hassalo on Eighth. Photo: © Lara Swimmer

The U.S. Green Building Council announces LEED Homes Award winners

The U.S. Green Building Council announces LEED Homes Award winners

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced the recipients of its annual LEED Homes Awards, which recognizes projects, architects, developers and homebuilders who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and innovation in the residential green building marketplace.

read more

Cafe and monumental stair. Nixon Peabody, LLP, Washington, D.C. Photo Eric Laignel. Courtesy of Perkins+Will

CfAD Excellence Awards showcase active design influence on projects around the world

CfAD Excellence Awards showcase active design influence on projects around the world

The CfAD’s fourth annual Center for Active Design: Excellence awards recognize compelling research and design projects that cultivate health by promoting physical activity, mental health, and civic trust. This year’s Thought Leadership award recognizes Dr. James Sallis for his pivotal work to expand and disseminate research on the built environment and health.

read more

Potter’s Lane, designed by SVA Architects, Inc.

Winner: The Word, National Centre for the Written Word, FaulknerBrowns Architects. Photo: ©Hufton+Crow

CIAT Architectural Technology Awards 2017 Winners

CIAT Architectural Technology Awards 2017 Winners

The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) is pleased to declare the winners for its annual Architectural Technology Awards. Announced and presented by CIAT President Gary Mees on 15 September 2017, the Awards celebrate the latest achievements and highest quality in Architectural Technology.

read more

ASLA 2017 Honor Award, General Design Category. The Entrance Garden by Alex Hanazaki Paisagismo. Photo credit: Yuri Seródio

IN EVERY EDITION

PROJECT PROFILES

The distinct design of 7 Bryant Park features extra-large panels of Solarban® 60 on Starphire® low-iron glass from Vitro Architectural Glass. Photo courtesy of Tom Kessler

7 Bryant Park melds curved glass, stainless steel spandrels and transparent openings

7 Bryant Park melds curved glass, stainless steel spandrels and transparent openings

That distinct design gesture is complemented by extra-large panels of Solarban 60 on Starphire® low-iron glass, which the architects specified to provide unobstructed park views while mitigating the heating and cooling loads associated with a glass-walled building. Horizontal spandrels finished with stainless steel add another element of texture, reflecting sunlight during the day and colored lights in the evening.

read more

The Belltown Collective, Seattle. Photo: Jill Hardy

The Perles Family Studio at Jacob’s Pillow Dance by Flansburgh Architects. Photo credit: Robert Benson PhotographyThe Perles Family Studio at Jacob’s Pillow Dance by Flansburgh Architects. Photo credit: Robert Benson Photography

Inside the New Studio at Jacob’s Pillow Dance by Flansburgh Architects

Inside the New Studio at Jacob’s Pillow Dance by Flansburgh Architects

Flansburgh Architects of Boston, has designed the new $5.5 million Perles Family Studio at Jacob’s Pillow Dance, the home of the internationally acclaimed dance festival. The Perles Family Studio is an integral part of the Pillow’s five-year strategic plan, Vision ‘22, which launches the Pillow as a year-round campus for programs, research, and development with initiatives made possible through a deep commitment to The School at Jacob’s Pillow, artist residencies, community engagement, and educational programs. 

read more

Sound Transit’s University of Washington Station, Seattle, designed by LMN Architects. Photo credit: Kevin Scott

KEXP Headquarters, Seattle. Photo credit: Jeremy Bittermann

KEXP Headquarters, a landmarked building reborn as a light-filled global music hub

KEXP Headquarters, a landmarked building reborn as a light-filled global music hub

“KEXP connects people through music. Our goal as architects and designers was to see that connection translated and amplified through physical space. Now, they not only connect with people over the airwaves, but in person via the public gathering space and at a community level by physically connecting the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood with Seattle Center. We felt this was a perfect expression of their ambitions to be not just a radio station but a worldwide community music hub.” — Kyle Gaffney, co-designer of KEXP and co-founder, SkB Architects

read more

NBC Sports 2016 Summer Olympics Studio, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. Photo credit: © Jacob R Gendelman

NBC Sports 2016 Summer Olympics Studio case study

NBC Sports 2016 Summer Olympics Studio case study

Rio de Janeiro was announced as the host city for the 2016 Summer Olympics in October 2009, allowing more than five years to plan and build the Olympic venues. However, just five months before the games began, ReSource New Jersey was contracted to work with NBC Sports, HD Studio, and blackwalnut Fabricators on the design, procurement, fabrication, logistics, and installation of the NBC Sports 2016 Summer Olympics Studio.

read more

COR Cellars in Lyle, Wash. Photographer: Kevin Scott

Expansion of COR Cellars winery

Expansion of COR Cellars winery

COR Cellars is located on Old Highway 8 just outside of Lyle, Washington in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Within a designated National Scenic Area, the site offers stunning views to the surrounding carved mountainsides characteristic of the gorge and to the south across the river to Mount Hood. The project is a large expansion to an existing winery founded in 2004 by owner Luke Bradford.

read more

BUILDING SCIENCE

DuPage Airport’s Transient Aircraft Hangar, West Chicago, Ill. Photo credit: ©balloggphoto.com and EXTECH, Inc.

Lockheed Martin invests in “factory of the future”

Lockheed Martin invests in “factory of the future”

Lockheed Martin invests in “factory of the future”

Preliminary construction is underway on a new, $350 million Lockheed Martin facility that will produce next-generation satellites. The new facility, located on the company’s Waterton Canyon campus near Denver, is the latest step in an ongoing transformation, infused with innovation to provide future missions at reduced cost and cycle time.

read more

The Pacific, San Francisco. Credit: Christopher Mayer Photography

Sustainable Jewel-Box Building in the Heart of San Francisco

Sustainable Jewel-Box Building in the Heart of San Francisco

With stunning architecture envisioned and executed by internationally acclaimed Glenn Rescalvo at Handel Architects and interior design of all common spaces and residences by Handel Interior Design, The Pacific has engaged with the Bay Area’s foremost luxury residential design team to reimagine this former school of dentistry into this luxurious masterpiece in Pacific Heights.

read more

HoodWORKS project in Portland. Credit: Koble Creative Architecture

Point B Inc. develops mixed-use building in Portland

Point B Inc. develops mixed-use building in Portland

The HoodWORKS architecture incorporates cross-laminated timber (CLT), exposed ceilings, and concrete floors, for a look that’s expressive, efficient and modern. The Point B Property Development team partnered with Koble Creative Architecture and Abbasi Design Works on the design for the building.

read more

Toyota headquarters campus takes ‘The LEED’ in Texas

Toyota headquarters campus takes ‘The LEED’ in Texas

Toyota headquarters campus takes ‘The LEED’ in Texas

Toyota Motor North America’s (TMNA) headquarters campus in Plano, Texas has officially achieved LEED Platinum from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Jonathan Kraatz, executive director, USGBC Texas Chapter, presented the prized Platinum plaque to Jim Lentz, TMNA president and chief executive officer, today at the new campus. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Toyota’s new campus is the largest commercial LEED Platinum project in the state of Texas, to date.

read more

Credit: Jason Keen Photography

KIRCO announces grand opening of the Global Dow Center and new H. H. Dow Visitors and Heritage Center

KIRCO announces grand opening of the Global Dow Center and new H. H. Dow Visitors and Heritage Center

Elements of the Global Dow Center include: a six-story, 184,390 square-foot, steel-frame and curtain wall structure; 21,000-square-feet of vegetative rooftop and a nearly one-acre decorative pond wrapping one-third of the building, helping to dramatically reduce heat islands and storm water runoff; and an enclosed employee walkway connecting occupants to parking and other campus facilities.

read more

COLOR AND DESIGN

A Welcome Home is a Heart Wood home. This is where you feel instantly at ease, surrounded by the gentle grey-pink tones of Heart Wood. The nourishing warmth of wood and tactile comfort of leather add to the sense of harmony. The Heart Wood Home palette reflects this versatility, with soft cocoa flowing into bolder shades of ink blue and purple.

AkzoNobel announces Heart Wood as 2018 Color of the Year

AkzoNobel announces Heart Wood as 2018 Color of the Year

Extensive research was conducted by the color team at AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Center, together with a group of 11 international experts. It revealed a strong overarching trend of consumers wanting to transform their homes into spaces of retreat from the outside world.

read more

Courtesy of Auberge Beach Residences & Spa

Design vision for Auberge Beach Residences & Spa

Design vision for Auberge Beach Residences & Spa

“Auberge Beach Residences is located on one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in South Florida,” said Will Meyer, principal of Meyer Davis Studio, Inc., along with Gray Davis. “The site’s serenity and calm environs informed our design direction—from palette to material choices. It is an honor to work with Related, Fortune and Fairwinds to create a landmark community that creates a sense of place unique to the destination and takes cues from the graceful style of Auberge Resorts, whose properties are acclaimed for their timelessness and intimate, understated elegance.”

read more

URBAN PLANNING

Seattle Playground Pavilion at Upstream Music Festival & Summit. Photo: © Sozinho Imagery

Seattle Playground at Upstream Music Festival & Summit

Seattle Playground at Upstream Music Festival & Summit

Program elements for the 1,600-square-foot pavilion included spaces for lounging, display of a custom mural, a bar to serve food and drink, space for an artist to create an in-situ art work, monitors for showing short films, and room for an orchestra to play! The pavilion—located within the main festival grounds just north of Century Link Stadium—was part of a group of art installations and tents housing festival activities. Seattle Playground was conceived as an open-to-the-elements structure, though provision was made for weather protection, which turned out to be necessary as rain showers occurred during the festival.

read more

Credit: KTGY Architecture + Planning

KTGY unveils new Experiential Urban Lifestyle development Little Saigon

KTGY unveils new Experiential Urban Lifestyle development Little Saigon

“This is an exciting project for us to collaborate with our studios in-house,” said Ken Ryan, KTGY principal and head of the firm’s Community Planning and Urban Design Studio. KTGY provided the planning for the project and will serve as the executive architect for the entire project. “Designing a great urban place demands attention to not only how it functions (access, parking, the number of units, etc.) but also how it connects to the human experience,” Ryan added. “Bolsa Row will offer a mix of uses that provide a sense of destination and synergy reflective of the area’s cultural heritage that will attract people to come, and cause them to return.”

read more

Conceptual design depicting future urban flood protection solutions for Manhattan – Image courtesy of BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

Photo Courtesy of Ward Village

Anaha at Ward Village in Honolulu debuts Hawaii’s largest living green wall

Anaha at Ward Village in Honolulu debuts Hawaii’s largest living green wall

Ward Village is Hawaii’s only LEED-ND Platinum-Certified project, and the largest neighborhood development in the country to receive such a prestigious certification. The community was recently named “Best On-the Boards Mixed Use Project”  and “Best Community Site Plan” at the 54th Annual Gold Nugget Awards presented by PCBC, the largest annual homebuilding trade show in the Western United States.  

read more
ASLA convenes blue ribbon panel on climate change and resilience

ASLA convenes blue ribbon panel on climate change and resilience

“ASLA has identified climate change as a key issue for its members, and for society at large,” said Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA, executive vice president and CEO of ASLA. “The recent devastating and real impacts of natural disasters such as hurricanes Harvey and Irma highlight the need for policy makers, both state and local, to invest in thoughtful and climate-resilient solutions to systemic infrastructure issues.” 

read more

HISTORIC RESTORATION AND PRESERVATION

Perla Atrium Lounge. 400 South Broadway, Los Angeles. Courtesy of CallisonRTKL

INDUSTRY NEWS

Development that is Making Cities More Resilient: ULI’s 2017 Fall Meeting, in Los Angeles Oct 23-26, Looks at How to Get It Right

The role of the development community in creating cities that are more resilient — not just to natural disasters but a variety of disruptors — will be discussed during a special media-only event at the Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) 2017 Fall Meeting, set for October 23-26 at the Los Angeles Convention Center in downtown Los Angeles.

read more
Washington, DC Named First LEED Platinum City in the World

Washington, DC Named First LEED Platinum City in the World

Today, Washington, DC was named the first LEED for Cities Platinum city in the world. Mayor Bowser was presented this honor by Mahesh Ramanujam, President and CEO of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), at an event on the steps of Dunbar High School – the highest rated LEED-certified school in the United States.

read more
CONSTRUCT Launches a New Mobile App Sponsored by Firestone Building Products

CONSTRUCT Launches a New Mobile App Sponsored by Firestone Building Products

“Accessing critical show information while you’re on the go has never been easier.  By downloading the free mobile app, you can quickly view the CONSTRUCT floor plan, exhibitor details, educational sessions and more from any web-enabled mobile device,” said Sylvia Wofford, CONSTRUCT Marketing Manager. “The easy-to-use interactive capabilities and real-time event communications will make your CONSTRUCT experience more enjoyable than ever, so download as soon as you can.”

read more
ASLA to Host Security Design Panel on Facebook Live

ASLA to Host Security Design Panel on Facebook Live

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) will host an Aug. 31 panel of landscape architects via Facebook Live to discuss the security design of public places. In view of recent tragic events in Charlottesville, Barcelona and London, the panel will examine the urgent need to ensure the public’s safety on public, government and institutional properties. Key design goals and challenges will also be addressed from various angles, with a special focus on how to provide an adequate balance between addressing threats and the beauty of the public realm.

read more

Neil deGrasse Tyson to Close Greenbuild 2017

“Greenbuild has become the defining moment each year for the green building world to convene, and it’s a place where the future of our movement is shaped,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO, USGBC. “Dr. Tyson’s clarity and wit as a respected science expert will challenge and invigorate our community to address the many serious issues affecting the environment and our world today.”

read more
Demand for design services bolsters compensation at architecture firms

Demand for design services bolsters compensation at architecture firms

As the U.S. economy continues to strengthen, compensation across all architectural staff positions averaged $84,000, up about 2.8% per year from early 2015 levels, according to the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2017 Compensation Report.  The biannual report provides salary data for 39 architecture firm positions in 26 states, 25 metro areas and 17 cities as well as industry salary trends and analysis on where the market is headed.

read more
ASLA Opposes Elimination of the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS)

ASLA Opposes Elimination of the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS)

“ASLA is deeply concerned with the executive order’s roll back of the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS). This order ignores both existing risks of flooding and future impacts of climate change, thereby increasing the risk of loss of property and lives. Responsible planning and development must address issues of floodplain management and incorporate green infrastructure in order to improve the resilience and security of our communities.”

read more

Greenbuild Announces Rock Band The Revivalists to Headline Annual Celebration

“The Greenbuild Celebration is one of the most highly anticipated events of the week and has a long history as a lively, fun way to network, the place to commemorate the theme of the show and a huge celebration of another year’s work for the green building industry, “ said Lindsay Roberts, group director, Informa Exhibitions. “We are thrilled to announce up-and-coming band The Revivalists as our entertainment this year and are certain their energy and charisma on stage will complement the festive atmosphere of the evening.”

read more
Leaders to gather at Urban Land Institute’s 2017 Fall Meeting set for October 23–26

Leaders to gather at Urban Land Institute’s 2017 Fall Meeting set for October 23–26

As the largest of ULI’s events, and the real estate industry’s premier gathering, the Fall Meeting routinely draws internationally renowned land use and urban development experts, including commercial developers, finance executives, economic development specialists, architects, urban planners, property owners and managers, real estate consultants, public officials, academics and property advisers.

read more
AAMA announces creation of Field Test Agency Accreditation

AAMA announces creation of Field Test Agency Accreditation

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) announced the creation of the new Field Test Agency (FTA) Accreditation Program that credentials independent field testing agencies to support AAMA members, the fenestration industry, building owners and their agents. The Program also validates that these field test agencies are capable of testing fenestration products in the field utilizing the field test methods included in AAMA performance standards.

read more
CONSTRUCT Becomes Official Partner of Let’s Fix Construction

CONSTRUCT Becomes Official Partner of Let’s Fix Construction

“I am thrilled to forge a relationship between CONSTRUCT and Let’s Fix Construction. I have worked with the Informa team extensively over the last four years on Young Professionals Day, the Education Advisory Council and other speaking opportunities and events for CONSTRUCT. I am impressed with their commitment to providing an event that meets the needs of many disciplines at many levels. They listen! With a common goal of bringing all disciplines in our industry together with an equal seat at the table – we felt this relationship was a no brainer.” – Cherise Lakeside

read more
AAMA releases updated standard vertical load evaluation method for side-hinged door slabs

AAMA releases updated standard vertical load evaluation method for side-hinged door slabs

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) recently released an updated document to provide a standard method of evaluating side-hinged door active slabs for their ability to resist a vertical load. AAMA 925-17, the “Specification for Determining the Vertical Loading Resistance of Side-Hinged Door Systems,” determines the ability of a side-hinged door slab to remain operable following the application of a vertical load along the lock stile.

read more

StormCon spotlights green infrastructure, stormwater program management and BMPs

 Surface water quality professionals from North America and beyond will travel to the vibrant City of Bellevue, Washington from August 27th through 31st for StormCon 2017 to meet leading stormwater experts, explore emerging water-quality technologies and best management practices (BMPs), and engage in a PDH- and CEU-accredited course curriculum.

read more
AAMA releases updated standard test method for water penetration using dynamic pressure

AAMA releases updated standard test method for water penetration using dynamic pressure

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) recently released an updated document to provide a standard water penetration test method when it comes to using dynamic pressure. AAMA 501.1-17, the “Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Windows, Curtain walls and Doors Using Dynamic Pressure,” establishes the equipment and procedures for testing.

read more

In the news…

TreeTown USA to Acquire Village Nurseries

TreeTown USA has announced a definitive purchase agreement to acquire Village Nurseries, a specialty grower for landscape professionals, re-wholesalers and retailers, for an undisclosed amount. The deal represents one of the largest strategic nursery acquisitions in recent history and creates a nursery with a true coast-to-coast footprint. Closing is expected by the end of September, 2017.

read more
Katerra Announces New Mass Timber Facility

Katerra Announces New Mass Timber Facility

Katerra yesterday announced its plans to open a new factory in Spokane Valley, Washington, where it will produce mass timber products including cross-laminated timber (CLT) and Glulam. Mass timber represents the future of high performance building technology as a new market for building materials that are safe, efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly.

read more
KAI assembles new interior design team

KAI assembles new interior design team

“What we have assembled is an impressive team of talented interior experts who have exhibited tremendous creativity and professionalism on a variety of interior design projects throughout their careers. From commercial, government and education projects to healthcare and housing, our Interior Design Team works side-by-side with clients to ensure that their design vision becomes a reality in their project,” said KAI President Michael B. Kennedy, Jr.  

read more
FKP to Join CannonDesign

FKP to Join CannonDesign

Houston-based FKP is set to join CannonDesign. The firms signed a memorandum of understanding and are working through the steps to complete a merger. This planned merger represents a remarkable fusion of expertise — bringing together our leading design practice with one of the most respected healthcare, science and education design firms in the nation. Together as one firm, we will leverage our combined 19 office locations and nearly 1,000 employees to better serve our clients as they seek to innovate, transform and prepare for the future. 

read more

Smart Windows Integrated with IoT Transform into a Prominent Energy Management Option

With double-digit revenues predicted in the next four years, the smart windows market is booming. Revenue growth is fueled by the demand for increased comfort of occupants and annual building energy cost savings. In a highly competitive and rapidly evolving ecosystem, Internet of Things (IoT) integration, partnerships, and revamped business models will be critical to retain customer bases and market share.

read more

PPG Announces Leadership Changes

Tim Knavish will become senior vice president, industrial coatings at PPG. He will also assume oversight of PPG’s packaging coatings and coatings services businesses, the global supply management function and the Asia Pacific region.

read more
Vitro Architectural Glass adds online trademark and logo usage guidelines

Vitro Architectural Glass adds online trademark and logo usage guidelines

Vitro Architectural Glass (formerly PPG Glass) has launched an online “Trademarks” page at vitroglazings.com that enables customers to download authorized artwork for logos, logo usage guides and trademarks attribution rules for popular Vitro Glass products and services for use in their own marketing materials.

read more
Millburn, NJ’s “Complete Streets” program wins award for excellence

Millburn, NJ’s “Complete Streets” program wins award for excellence

Millburn Township announced September 13, that its Complete Streets program will be given the Complete Streets Excellence award at the 2017 New Jersey Complete Streets Summit held at Rutgers University on October 24, 2017. The award recognizes a municipality that has demonstrated excellence in Complete Streets policy development and implementation.

read more

Commercial Construction Index reflects healthy contractor sentiment

“The Commercial Construction Index is unique in providing the contractor’s view of the state of the industry, which is a key driver of the U.S. economy,” said Jennifer Scanlon, president and chief executive officer of USG Corporation. “This quarter’s findings reveal strong optimism about future prospects for the industry, and also highlight a real need to address ongoing concerns about skilled labor shortages and the impact it has on building in the U.S.”

read more
River Edge Ideas Lab Exhibition opening today

River Edge Ideas Lab Exhibition opening today

The River Edge Ideas Lab Exhibition designed and curated by Ross Barney Architects, opened earlier today with a ribbon cutting ceremony and press conference, as a part of the 2017 Chicago Architecture Biennial.

read more
New funding to support research for mixed-income community building

New funding to support research for mixed-income community building

Now, with $1.8 million in new funding, Joseph, also founding director of the National Initiative on Mixed-Income Communities (NIMC) at the Mandel School, and his colleagues are leading an effort to learn how mixed-income development might more effectively promote social equity and inclusion—as initially intended.

read more

Phipps Conservatory supports 2017 Living Product Expo

In its continued commitment to sustainability, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens proudly supports the International Living Future Institute’s groundbreaking Living Product Expo held in Pittsburgh Tues., Sept. 12 – Thurs., Sept. 14 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

read more

ROXUL Inc. rebrands to ROCKWOOL

ROXUL Inc., the North American division of the ROCKWOOL GROUP, the world’s largest stone wool manufacturer, announces it will commence a full rebrand to ROCKWOOL. The ROCKWOOL brand has been marketed proudly and internationally for 80 years and now will be adopted in North America*.

read more
Linetec’s Tom Danen honored with Patriot Award

Linetec’s Tom Danen honored with Patriot Award

The Wisconsin Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the U.S. Department of Defense, honored Linetec’s production supervisor for paint applications Tom Danen with a Patriot Award.

read more
KTGY Architecture + Planning to design The Exchange in Salt Lake City

KTGY Architecture + Planning to design The Exchange in Salt Lake City

“The project looks to transform this district through the infusion of a diverse set of programs that will provide activated street frontages and a variety of housing typologies at all levels of affordability,” McCloskey said. The development will also be built to LEED Gold standards and will be Energy Star certified.

read more
Vitro Architectural Glass debuts specialty glass design kit for architects, designers

Vitro Architectural Glass debuts specialty glass design kit for architects, designers

Vitro Architectural Glass (formerly PPG Glass) has unveiled its Specialty Glass Design Kit for interior and exterior applications, featuring Starphire Ultra-Clear® glass, Clarvista® shower glass, and earth- and ocean-inspired performance tinted glasses, together with an exclusive array of acid-etched and painted glass products from Walker Textures® glass and ICD High Performance Coatings, respectively.

read more
CH2M to deliver services for the restoration of Palace of Westminster

CH2M to deliver services for the restoration of Palace of Westminster

CH2M has formally been awarded the Lot 2 contract to deliver the Programme, Project and Cost Management services on the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster. The contract award will see CH2M carry out vital work to protect the heritage of the historic palace and restore it for future generations of use.

read more

Studio Four Design hires Erin Metelka as interior designer

Metelka has already contributed her skills to projects at Studio Four. She is currently working on a school project for a local municipality, a new headquarters for a credit union in a nearby community and a major manufacturing facility expansion also located in East Tennessee.

read more

Village Nurseries and Kellogg Garden Products launch YouTube Series: Building Life in the Soil

David House, president and CEO of Village Nurseries, stated: “This new video series represents a continuation of our ongoing commitment to educating landscape architects and designers about the latest trends and issues in the industry. We are even more pleased that we could partner with Kellogg, one of the most respected companies in the entire landscape community.”

read more
The Residences at The Sawyer at the forefront of Sacramento’s modern urban renaissance

The Residences at The Sawyer at the forefront of Sacramento’s modern urban renaissance

Since the Golden 1 Center (home to the NBA’s Sacramento Kings and the world’s first LEED Platinum sports arena) opened in fall of 2016, the stadium has served as the core to the city’s redevelopment program, Downtown Commons (DOCO). In addition to the new dining, shopping, nightlife, and entertainment offerings at Downtown Commons, plans include The Residences at The Sawyer, which was developed by the Sacramento Kings and JMA Ventures, and scheduled for completion later this year.

read more

Vitro Glass names Thomas Meston employee communications and engagement manager

“Tom brings a wealth of experience and strong track record to this position,” said Robert Struble, manager, brand and communications, Vitro Architectural Glass. “His skills in corporate, marketing and employee communications combined with the ability to leverage video, print and digital platforms make Tom the ideal fit to elevate employee engagement.”

read more

Arup Principal Jon Hurt joins Engineers Without Borders USA Board of Directors

Hurt noted, “From students to seasoned professionals, engineers are fantastic resource, and this is a fantastic opportunity for us to make a lasting, positive impact on developing communities. EWB-USA is a unique organization that’s crossing the boundaries between the AEC industries and humanitarian organizations and NGOs. I’m honored to join the board of such a progressive organization.”

read more
Glulam connections fire test report now available

Glulam connections fire test report now available

Arup, D.R. Johnson, MyTiCon and the Softwood Lumber Board partnered to complete three full-scale fire tests for glulam beam to column connectors. The fire tests were loaded to simulate typical building conditions.

read more
Benoy appoints Barry Spencer Hughes as Design Director

Benoy appoints Barry Spencer Hughes as Design Director

Primarily based at the London campus, Barry will shape Benoy’s global design message, while expanding the business in America. “Benoy’s experience and reputation in mixed-use and transportation led projects will be a great entré into the US market.  We have a proven track record of creating great places all over the world, and I look forward to helping continue that tradition back home,” 

read more
Demand for design services bolsters compensation at architecture firms

Demand for design services bolsters compensation at architecture firms

As the U.S. economy continues to strengthen, compensation across all architectural staff positions averaged $84,000, up about 2.8% per year from early 2015 levels, according to the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2017 Compensation Report.  The biannual report provides salary data for 39 architecture firm positions in 26 states, 25 metro areas and 17 cities as well as industry salary trends and analysis on where the market is headed.

read more
Metsä Wood launches ‘Open Source Wood’ initiative

Metsä Wood launches ‘Open Source Wood’ initiative

Metsä Wood’s Open Source Wood initiative is a call to action to architects, designers and engineers to join forces, share innovation and contribute knowledge about large-scale, modular wood construction. By creating an open innovation platform around modular wood construction, Metsä Wood’s aim is to connect the local wood construction industry with global knowledge to facilitate collaboration and growth. 

read more

Vitro Glass names Dritz national architectural manager

“Emily has a unique educational and professional background that enables her to communicate well with architects,” said Glenn T. Miner, director of construction, Vitro Architectural Glass. “In addition to being a registered architect, she has extensive expertise in glass performance, construction and the LEED® certification process. That knowledge and her ability to understand architects’ project requirements have quickly made her a trusted resource for architects as well as glazing contractors and glass fabricators.”

read more
Kolbe launches new responsive website

Kolbe launches new responsive website

“We are very excited about our new website,” says Cindy Bremer, vice president of marketing at Kolbe Windows & Doors. “While creating it, our main priority was user experience and mobile compatibility. We wanted to make it easy to navigate and functional across multiple platforms, while reaching all sectors of our market.”

read more

Final Plan Bay Area 2040 and Environmental Impact Report Approved by Regional Agencies

The second such regional housing and transportation plan adopted by MTC and ABAG, Plan Bay Area 2040 is a long-range blueprint to guide transportation investments and land-use decisions through 2040, while meeting the requirements of California’s landmark 2008 Senate Bill 375, which calls on each of the state’s 18 metropolitan areas to develop a Sustainable Communities Strategy to accommodate future population growth and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cars and light trucks.

read more
Technoform Bautec announces low-conductivity pressure plate options to increase curtain walls’ thermal performance

Technoform Bautec announces low-conductivity pressure plate options to increase curtain walls’ thermal performance

Technoform Bautec developed the new polyamide pressure plate with the support of its global partner, YKK AP. The polyamide composition creates a highly effective thermal barrier that helps insulate 500 times better than aluminum. Curtain wall systems using the new pressure plate design have demonstrated performance increases of up to a 20 percent gain in U-Factor and a 10 percent gain in condensation resistance when used with standard low-emissivity glass, air infill and an aluminum box-type spacer.

read more
Braxton-Bragg introduces THE ONE FLOOR system to maintain polished concrete floors

Braxton-Bragg introduces THE ONE FLOOR system to maintain polished concrete floors

The bottom line is polished concrete floors are a large investment, and human error can ruin the finish and cost businesses labor and downtime. Buying inexpensive products is not the answer, because chemicals can cause yellowing and require frequent stripping. The best way to maintain polished concrete floors is by implementing an effective hard floor care program using superior products that require less labor.

read more

Firestone Building Products Announces New President

Bridgestone executive Taylor Cole has been named president, Firestone Building Products effective August 14. Tim Dunn, current president, Firestone Building Products, will retire Oct. 1 after more than 31 years with Firestone and its parent company, Bridgestone Americas.

read more

Renee Cruse Joins Hamilton Anderson Associates as Director of Interiors

Hamilton Anderson Associates (HAA) announced today the addition of Renee Cruse as director of interiors. Cruse brings an extensive expertise in interior design to the firm with over 25 years of work experience in historic preservation, innovative office planning, hospitality and residential design.

read more
ChromaLuxe unveils new sublimatable, durable flooring décor product

ChromaLuxe unveils new sublimatable, durable flooring décor product

ChromaLuxe has taken the décor and durability of its photo panels from the wall to the floor with the introduction of ChromaLuxe flooring panels. The flooring panels consist of specially coated sheets of moisture-resistant high-density fiberboard that are cut into workable panels and provide a beautiful, durable, easy-to-use option for customizing commercial and residential spaces

read more

Accella Polyurethane Systems expands position in roofing markets

Accella Polyurethane Systems LLC renews their focus on Polyurethane Spray Foam and Roof Coating Systems; focusing on low slope and flat roof commercial coatings for new and restoration construction. The recent acquisition of the Covestro spray foam assets, combined with its leading BayTec® silicone, BayBlock® acrylic and BaySeal® polyurethane spray foam technologies, positions Accella with an array of solutions.

read more

Jacobs Engineering to acquire CH2M

“By increasing our industry reach and adding to our already extensive skills, this transaction enhances our value to our clients and bolsters Jacobs’ position as a premier consulting, design, engineering, construction, and operations and maintenance technical services firm. CH2M brings to Jacobs a talented, engaged team with capabilities and values that are very complementary to our own. Together, we will bring more solutions to our clients, give more opportunity to our employees and create increased value for Jacobs’ shareholders. In addition, this transaction is consistent with our M&A criteria, accelerating our ability to achieve our financial growth targets and propelling Jacobs toward our vision of providing innovative solutions for a more connected, sustainable world,” said Steve Demetriou, Jacobs’ Chairman and CEO.

read more
Vitro Architectural Glass experts tout sustainability at Built Positive workshops

Vitro Architectural Glass experts tout sustainability at Built Positive workshops

Two technical experts from Vitro Architectural Glass were among the leaders of two “Built Positive” workshops hosted by the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute last month, each attracting more than 100 architects, designers and product developers to discuss sustainable building products and the concept of circular (regenerative) design.

read more

The Roderick Group and Ardmore Associates join forces, create engineering powerhouse

Two prominent Chicago-based, African American-owned engineering companies have merged to create a fully integrated engineering and construction management consulting firm. Ardmore Associates and The Roderick Group have joined forces to become one of the largest minority-owned firms in Chicago and the region, as well as one of the top 20 largest engineering firms headquartered in Illinois.

read more
SiteLock