Ryan Kurlbaum

We recently chatted with our friend Alexander Loyer Hughes, AIA, an architect with a unique perspective. 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗼 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺? Alex shared an interesting story. He's from Chile, a country where energy is scarce. Conserving energy is on everyone's mind! 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 In Chile and places like Germany, energy efficiency is part of life. Buildings are designed to save energy. It’s a necessity. But in the U.S.? Many old buildings leak heat like crazy. Ever cracked open a window because the boiler runs non-stop? It’s mind-boggling to those from energy-conscious countries. 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 With new regulations and a focus on sustainability, the lessons Alex learned in Chile are now critical. Modern technologies and techniques, like Passive House, are game changers. Retrofits to make old buildings energy-efficient? It's a whole new world and a fascinating challenge. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗜𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 Alex finds retrofitting old buildings to be incredibly motivating. It’s about fixing the past to build a sustainable future.

48

1 Comment

“Eighty-five percent of the buildings that will exist in the year 2050 have already been built,” said Joe Backer, Boston’s senior project manager for neighborhood housing. “So tackling the question of decarbonization in existing affordable-housing stock is super important.” Nice piece in the Globe today by Ivy S. https://lnkd.in/dBMiSEbf One caveat from our perspective here at ZCMA. One of the architects quoted in the story argues that one must always upgrade the thermal envelope of the building before electrifying heat. This is sometimes good advice, and can result in lower operational cost, but it should not be seen as a hard and fast rule. If you are at end-of-life of a fossil HVAC system, that is the time the electrify with heatpump(s). Don't make the mistake of buying a new 20-30 year fossil HVAC system if you can not simultaneously work on the building envelope. Remember, ~80% of HVAC replacements happen because of the sudden failure of the old system--it is simply not reasonable to expect everyone to have planned ahead and done their envelope weatherization in advance. Heatpumps can work just fine in cold weather climates now. cc: Lisa Cunningham Wendy Stahl Jesse Gray David Mendels

8

1 Comment

New York Passive House is pleased to announce our second annual Regenerative Metropolis Symposium, taking place at Parsons School of Design on Friday, September 27, 2024. Architecture, at its best, embodies our wisest systems knowledge.  It provides for human thriving while integrating within all regenerative systems that support the thriving of all life.  Positive feedback loops within this type of infrastructure can ensure that abundance is ever increasing, rather than degrading. How can our cities deploy our best understanding of regenerative stewardship? Can urban architecture support best practices within sibling systems such as agriculture, land use, energy, and ecosystem stewardship?

17

7 Massachusetts Interior Design Trends For 2024 As the new year unfolds, so do fresh trends that redefine and elevate living spaces across the US housing market. As a hot destination for homebuyers, Massachusetts reveals classics that have a promising impression on its architectural landscape. Find the seven home trends with us that are anticipated to reform the interior style of Massachusetts homes for 2024. #InteriorDesignTrends #MassachusettsDesign #2024Trends

3

In high school, I considered a career in architecture. I always marveled at the New York skyline and thought it would be so amazing to construct a building. But alas, after some classes, I realized it was too math heavy and formal for me. What I find interesting today is how I migrated to design where in our field of product design there are many analogies to physically building a structure. Here are a few. 1. Prototyping: Both fields create prototypes to visualize and test ideas before final production. Architects build models and mock-ups, while product designers develop digital prototypes. 2. User-Centric Design: Both disciplines emphasize understanding the needs and behaviors of users. Architects consider how people will interact with and use a space, while product designers focus on user experience and journeys. 3. Iterative Development: Both fields employ an iterative design process, continually refining and improving their designs based on feedback and testing. 4. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Architects and product designers often work in teams with various experts, such as engineers, quality assurance controllers, and stakeholders, to ensure all aspects of the design are addressed. 5. Accessibility Guidelines: Both disciplines follow specific guidelines to ensure their designs are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Architects adhere to building codes and standards like the ADA, while product designers follow WCA3 guidelines. 6. Design and Building Systems: Both fields use comprehensive systems to ensure consistency and quality in their work. Product designers use design systems that include guidelines, reusable components, and standards. Similarly, architects use building systems, building codes and standards, modular construction techniques, architectural patterns, style guides, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) to manage and streamline the design and construction process. Can you think of any other similarities? #uxdesign #architecture #designsystems #Skwair

2

Happy Earth Day YALL! As designers focused on sustainable design solutions we try and bring the spirit of Earth day to our jobs always. However, there are moments in our lives and careers that the Earth teaches us how to be better designers as well. My DLR Group colleague Prem Sundharam's post below shares one of those moments and is a message to us all. Check it out!

10

On the advice of my good friend Michelle Amt, FAIA I am participating in #ShowYourStripes Day!  Here's a graphic that shows temperature change in New York since 1895 (red is above since 2000 in our region and continues to go up to present day average temperature). This is why we are experiencing a heatwave now in the region. #climatechange #savetheplanetnow #bethechange https://lnkd.in/e9iuaXmr

7

The Potomac Residence was designed to be a contemporary departure from traditional design expectations in the prestigious neighborhood of Highland Park. This project challenges conventional notions by reimagining the layout and materials of a luxury home. The design prioritizes the integration of public and private spaces in a unique configuration. On the ground level, public areas such as the great room, dining room, kitchen with nook, and office foster a sense of connectivity and openness. Meanwhile, semi-private and private spaces are positioned on the second level, offering a retreat-like ambiance. These include a lounge, primary bedroom/bath suite, three additional bedrooms/baths, a laundry room, and a spacious walk-in storage area. In terms of construction, the residence stands on a post-tension slab on pier foundation, ensuring stability and longevity. The exterior combines modern elements such as stucco, backed by CMU, to create depth and extend the quality of the construction. Timeless materials like limestone and neutral brick allow the home to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. To further enhance efficiency, the project incorporates two tankless hot-water heaters and HVAC units strategically placed to optimize usage between private and public spaces. This thoughtful approach not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances the overall livability of the residence. — #ResidentialDevelopment #Construction #Design #ModernLuxury #HighlandPark #ContemporaryDesign #InnovativeArchitecture #LuxuryHome #EfficientLiving #SustainableLiving #TimelessMaterials #HVACEfficiency #GreenLiving

1

Please show your support! Many people, even peers in the AEC community, don’t know that Interior Designers are not recognized as licensed professionals in the state of Massachusetts. Ten years ago, Interior Design wasn't even recognized as a profession in the Commonwealth. Let that sink in for a minute... My hope is that this shocks you into action. Last week Sarah Sopelak - NCIDQ, WELL AP, LEED AP BD-C, Marie Fitzgerald, and I joined roughly 100 other interior designers from across the Commonwealth at the State House to meet with legislators regarding active legislation that would recognize commercial interior designers as licensed professionals. This 2023-2024 legislative session in Massachusetts marks the 6th year the interior design community has had a bill before the Legislature, although the push for recognition began over three decades ago. Bill S.2408 was written by corporate interior designers and members of IIDA New England in conjunction with ASID, CIDQ and other industry professionals. It is a bill that has been used as a model to gain recognition in Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Utah since its first introduction in Massachusetts. Currently, 29 states acknowledge Interior Designers as licensed professionals. The Commonwealth has a thriving and talented Interior Design community, full of qualified designers who have the education and experience that should allow them to be recognized as licensed professionals. After passing our NCIDQ examinations, we should be able to stamp the non-structural interior drawings we create every day. We should also be able to hold majority ownership in a company and take on State and Federal work (something we are not afforded under current legislation). Additionally, as officers of a company, we should be able to sign contracts (something else we are currently not allowed to do without a co-signature by an Architect or Engineer). The passing of this legislation has been long overdue. Please help us elevate the design and construction industry as a whole by supporting it. You can do so by writing to your legislators to share your support of S.2408 and to ask them to urge the Senate Ways and Means Committee advance the bill. (This goes for Everyone. You do not have to be a Designer, Architect, or Engineer to reach out). If you're unsure who your Legislators are, check out the link below. If you're not sure what to say, have follow-up questions, or want to discuss this further, please reach out. https://lnkd.in/egRMCYuV

76

3 Comments

🌟 Excitement is Building for AIA National Conference 2024! 🌟 Going into the weekend, I want to make sure I take stock on a number of accomplishments and goals I want to set for next week. Filled with anticipation and excitement as we count down towards The American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Conference in Washington, D.C.! Here are a few things I'm looking forward to: • Rekindling Old Relationships: Catching up with friends and colleagues I haven’t seen in a while. 🔥 • Capturing Moments: Taking photos and documenting the inspiring moments throughout the event. 📸 • Living in the Moment: Fully immersing myself in the experience and soaking up all the knowledge and energy, Im looking forward to summer in D.C.! • Meeting Fellow Founders: Connecting with other founders and entrepreneurs to share stories and insights. 🤝 • Engaging with Monograph Users: Meeting the 1,300+ firms and 10,000+ architects who use Monograph to streamline their projects. 💖 • Listening More: Taking the time to listen and learn from the incredible minds in our industry. 🦻 • Discovering New Ideas: Exploring innovative concepts and fresh perspectives that can inspire future projects. 📚 • Collaborating on Solutions: Brainstorming with peers on challenges we face and potential solutions we can implement. 🧐 • Celebrating Achievements: Recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of colleagues and industry leaders. 🏆 • Sharing the Monograph Vision: Discussing how Monograph is shaping the future of project management in architecture. I’m especially excited to share how Monograph continues to evolve and support architects and designers. If you’re attending, I’d love to connect—whether it's to discuss project management solutions, share a cup of coffee, or simply chat about our shared passion for architecture. 📍 Don’t forget to stop by booth 2407! Let’s make the most of this experience together. See you in D.C.! #AIA2024 #Architecture #ProjectManagement #Monograph #Innovation #Networking #AIAConference #AIA24 #AEC #startup #Founders I'm also super excited to get to spend time with Chris Morgan, Sam Reiner, Andrew Carter, and Jared Laser !!! 🚀

25

Let’s see each other IRL at Clerkenwell Design week starting tomorrow. Do message if you are around. It will be wonderful to just say hi or properly catch up! #ClerkenwellDesignWeek #Sustaianblebuildings #Impact #Buildngdesign #Interiors #Architecture

9

Today Andrew Hawkins, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB and I are talking about inspiration – what is it, how does it manifest, can you fabricate or force it into existence? It’s not always easy to find, especially when looking for it. We just got back from the AIA Conference on Architecture in Washington DC and what we want to get out of a trip like this led to a discussion on inspiration. So what is it and where can you find it? Inspiration allows architects to break free from traditional constraints and explore various ideas. It encourages us to think beyond the immediate and the obvious, considering alternative approaches that might not be immediately apparent. This openness to new ideas is essential for developing unique and impactful architectural designs. Inspiration is not just about generating ideas; it’s about fostering continuous evolution and growth. For society to progress, architects must constantly evaluate their thought processes and the ways in which they solve problems. By staying inspired, we can build upon past ideas and solutions, integrating new information and perspectives to create more advanced and effective designs. This iterative process ensures that our work remains relevant and forward-thinking, contributing to the ongoing development of our built environment. The more I’ve thought on this topic, the more I believe inspiration has more to do with having an open mind and being receptive to thinking through what is right in front of you. #architecture #creative #inspiration Special thanks to episode sponsor Construction Specialties for their ongoing support.

21

3 Comments

The key to navigating complex projects and regulatory mazes lies in effective collaboration among architects, designers, and project managers. Embracing collaboration transforms challenges into opportunities, ensuring that projects not only meet but exceed expectations. #construction #architecture #nyc #InteriorDesign

2

The key to navigating complex projects and regulatory mazes lies in effective collaboration among architects, designers, and project managers. Embracing collaboration transforms challenges into opportunities, ensuring that projects not only meet but exceed expectations. #construction #architecture #nyc #InteriorDesign

8

🌟 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲: 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀’ 𝗔𝗜𝗔 𝗥𝗵𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝗜𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 🌟 AAA Northeast At Signal Works, our passion for architecture transcends mere structures. It’s about breathing life into forgotten spaces, creating purposeful places, and leaving an indelible mark on our communities. We’re thrilled to share that our commitment has been recognized by AIA Rhode Island in the 2023 Design Awards. 🏢 𝗔𝘁𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀 received the citation award for 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 🏢 The This project exemplifies our ethos of transformation. From a neglected building to a beacon of renewal, we meticulously restored and reimagined this space. The citation award acknowledges dedication to preserving history while infusing modern functionality. Every brick tells a story, and we’re honored to be its custodians. 🌆 𝗔𝗔𝗔 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝗮𝘆 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲, 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 🌆 This stands as a testament to collaboration, vision, and purpose. Our design seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetics, providing a dynamic workspace for the AAA team. This citation award underscores our commitment to creating environments that empower organizations to thrive. 🌟 More Than Awards: Our Mission 🌟 These accolades aren’t just shiny trophies—they’re signals of our mission. #SignalWorks #DesignExcellence #ArchitecturalInnovation

4

A few weeks ago Evelyn Lee invited me to discuss my career path and work on Practice of Architecture‘s podcast Practice Distributed. I get a lot of questions about my not-so-traditional career and how others can branch out from the expected path. I hope this helps other architecture folks who may be considering a change understand their value in a broader ecosystem! #masstimber #prefab #crosslaminatedtimber #sustainabledesign

53

3 Comments

GRILLIN' How often do we walk into buildings and see awful looking, bent, dusty, disgusting grilles in walls and ceilings? As lobby and hallway designers we feel that these seemingly small details are actually HUGELY impactful. They are often one of the most forgotten or overlooked items. So when designing lobbies and hallways, we take great care in reviewing what is existing, confirming the percentage of airflow required and selecting patterns that are easily custom perforated in creative or classic period designs best suited to your interiors. And in the scheme of things, these precious design elements are relatively inexpensive to their overall longevity and impact.

10

2 Comments

Tom Sung-Jin Chung, principal at Leers Weinzapfel Associates says that since the landmark University of Massachusetts Amherst project kicked off a decade ago, more than a thousand #masstimber buildings have been planned and hundreds have been realized as built projects. A quick look at WoodWorks’s Wood Innovation Network (WIN) proves this point of exponential acceleration. According to WIN, 10 years ago, there were zero building-grade CLT fabrication plants in the U.S. and only a few CLT fabrication plants in North America. Today, there are more than a dozen CLT fabrication plants in North America, and all of Europe’s major CLT producers have a presence in the region. Read More Here: https://lnkd.in/gf96d5hC Building Design+Construction Media #massplypanels Peggi Clouston Simpson Strong-Tie Walmart Forest Business Network LLC Shelby Snelson Melissa Sklenar Arnie Didier International Mass Timber Conference International Mass Timber Report

32

1 Comment

A temple front indicates institutionality and importance, which is why many American bank buildings derived their form from the Greek temple archetype. First National Bank Building in Rochester, NY Page189, The Art of Classic Planning #GreekTemple #Architecture #ClassicalArchitecture #ClassicPlanning #AmericanArchitecture

37

1 Comment