Recovered tennis court
January 30th, 2015
Rainier Industries solves a leaky problem for Stanford University’s tennis program. By Jill Lafferty Before Stanford University tennis players could serve, volley, slice and smash under a leak-free fabric structure, fabric installers were required to engage in a little rappelling. California’s Stanford University turned to Rainier Industries of Tukwila, Wash., to redesign and recover a […]
Moveable glass and fabric facade
January 1st, 2015
Louvers create stunning architectural detail while blocking sun glare. By Juli Swiler For its new headquarters, built outside of Bern, Switzerland, SBB Railway wanted to create a unique facade. The company also wanted to save energy and provide its employees with a superior working environment. All goals were achieved by installing moveable glass louvers, with […]
Zillow forecasts rise of millennial homebuyer in 2015
January 1st, 2015
Zillow predicts a big year for homebuyers in 2015, with more millennials entering the market amid rising rents. Zillow’s annual housing predictions identify the five best housing markets for first-time homebuyers this coming year. 2015 Predictions --U.S. rents will outpace home values by the end of the year --Builders will begin constructing more, less expensive […]
Demand Softens, but outlook for Architecture Billings Index remains positive
January 1st, 2015
Buoyed by sustained demand for apartments and condominiums, coupled with state and local governments moving ahead with delayed public projects, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) has been positive for seven consecutive months. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine- to 12-month lead time between architecture billings and construction […]
Highly efficient components focus of 2015 Passive House Conference
January 1st, 2015
The Passive House Standard enables every building owner to benefit from the energy revolution, with Certified Passive House Components ensuring cost-effectiveness. This basic concept will be the focus of the 2015 International Passive House Conference, held April 17–18 in Leipzig. The conference takes place under the auspices of Sigmar Gabriel, German Federal Minister for Economic […]
Architects issue statement on Congressional extension
January 1st, 2015
179D energy efficient commercial building tax deduction The American Institute of Architects (AIA) praised the Senate’s vote to extend the 179D energy efficient commercial building tax deduction just prior to adjourning for the year. Section 179D provides a tax deduction for energy efficient buildings. It also allows public building owners to allocate the deduction to […]
Phifer earns Melanoma International Foundation seal of approval
January 1st, 2015
Phifer Inc., a global manufacturer of energy-saving sun control fabrics, announced that more than 30 of its interior and exterior sun control fabrics have been recognized by the Melanoma International Foundation (MIF) and awarded its prestigious seal of approval for outstanding product and promotion of sun safe behaviors in accordance with the MIF Mission Statement. […]
A car park with a view and protection
January 1st, 2015
Tensile cover turns an ordinary parking shelter into a focal point for a Mexico City supermarket. By Julie Swiler The Santa Fe area of Mexico City is a booming business district with high rises and dramatic contemporary architecture, a modern contrast to many of the neighborhoods in the historic city. A fairly new development on […]
Fabric shades are in, outside
January 1st, 2015
Screens and shades that protect from sun, wind and insects bring indoor comforts to outdoor living. By Barb Ernster Outdoor living is a growing trend for homeowners seeking to relax and entertain outside with all the comforts of indoor living. Restaurants and hotels are also extending guest areas to outdoor patios, sidewalks, rooftops and beachfronts. […]