| NEWS | DESIGN | BUILDING | DESIGN TOOLS | ENVIRONMENT | CULTURE |
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Haiti Earthquake — an architectural perspective | |
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Aussie Architecture Awards 2009 | |
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Autodesk University 2009 | |
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Architectural Products Update |
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The Bloomframe® transforms from an insulated picture window into an open balcony at the touch of a button. The unit is constructed with tough, all-weather materials — steel, glass, and aluminum — and is controlled by a smooth electronic system. Designed for apartment buildings, offices, and hotels, the unit provides flexible outdoor space in compact urban environments. The dimensions, color, and materials can be custom-designed to complement the facades of new and existing buildings. Created by Amsterdam-based Hofman Dujardin Architects and engineered by Dutch manufacturer Hurks geveltechniek, the first models were built for an apartment building in Arnhem, and the unit is now in production in the Netherlands. |
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The new F-7000 waterless urinal by Falcon Waterfree Technologies features a splash-free bowl design and a special area for advertising. The messaging area supports adhesive decals 9 inches wide by 4 inches tall (23 by 10 centimeters), and is easy to clean and update. It provides an opportunity for generating advertising revenue or for communicating environmental messages. Falcon waterless urinals can conserve up to 40,000 gallons (150,000 liters) of water per year. Patented urinal cartridges are made of recyclable ABS plastic, use a biodegradable sealant liquid to control odors, and are tamper-resistant. Ten-year warranty. Qualifies for LEED points. |
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Nawkaw Corporation produces water-based stain products for brick, block, concrete, precast and tilt-up concrete, stucco, EIFS, and stone. The stains can help blend new additions into existing structures by matching the color of the brick and mortar. The stains are mixed and applied by trained technicians. Available in custom colors or prepared palettes, the stains are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and qualify for LEED credits. Applications include new construction, commercial restoration, institutional renovation, and residential repair. Twenty-five-year limited warranty available. |
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ThermaChannel™ steel framing members address the problem of thermal bridging in exterior walls framed with steel studs. The patented design reduces metal-to-wall contact to improve the R-value of the wall assembly without added insulating material. Testing by Oak Ridge National Laboratory confirms a 16 percent improvement in the R-value of a wall framed with ThermaChannel compared to one framed with standard steel studs. The product also reduces or eliminates "ghost marking," the collection of dust at the cold wall surface over a steel stud. No change in framing methods is required. Candidate for LEED innovation credit. |
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The LightLouver™ Daylighting System is a window treatment that helps bounce daylight deep inside a building. Panels resembling mini-blinds, mounted on high windows, reflect sunlight onto the ceiling, creating an ambient source of natural light. The system can save energy by reducing the need for artificial lighting in a new or existing building. The heat associated with the redirected light becomes stratified against the ceiling, above the occupied space, reducing the need for artificial cooling. The panels hang from brackets mounted to the head or top mullion of the window. |
