The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has shaped the way architects, engineers, and builders approach projects across the United States for decades. The ADA Standards for Accessible Design ensure that buildings and facilities are usable by all, regardless of physical ability. Yet, compliance is not a one-time effort. Updates and revisions to these standards over the years mean that construction and renovation projects must be carefully assessed to ensure alignment with the most current requirements. The transition from the 2009 ADA guidelines to the 2017 updates is especially significant for professionals working in regions like Colorado, where building code enforcement... View Article
In the past few decades, the use of architectural glass has become one of the most defining features in modern building design. No longer confined to simple windows, glass today is central to the way we think about transparency, aesthetics, energy efficiency, and user experience. In cities like Denver, where the climate requires buildings to balance daylight access with thermal control, glazing choices are especially critical. Every building envelope relies on its glazing system to mediate the relationship between the indoors and outdoors, regulating not only views and natural light but also heat gain, glare, and energy consumption. The choice... View Article
In the world of architecture and construction, safety considerations go far beyond the aesthetic and functional elements of a building. Among the most critical components are those designed to manage and mitigate fire risks—namely firewalls, fire barriers, and fire partitions. While these elements often go unnoticed by the building’s occupants, they serve as essential defenses in protecting lives and limiting property damage during a fire. Understanding their distinctions, roles, and the regulations that govern them is vital for architects, contractors, and anyone involved in commercial fire protection. In this blog, we will explore the complexities and nuances of these building... View Article
Few innovations in the world of architecture and interior design have had as profound an impact as floating walls. These modern marvels are revolutionizing the way buildings are constructed and experienced, particularly in environments where noise control and structural flexibility are paramount. Whether in residential, commercial, or institutional settings, floating walls offer a blend of practicality, performance, and design elegance. The synergy of soundproofing and movement inherent in these structures highlights their growing significance in contemporary building techniques. Floating Walls: What Are They? Floating walls, at their core, are wall assemblies that are decoupled from the main structural framework of... View Article
In the world of engineering and construction, subtle yet powerful elements often determine whether a structure lasts decades or crumbles prematurely. One such critical component is the expansion joint. Despite being overlooked by many outside the profession, expansion joints play a foundational role in ensuring the longevity, safety, and integrity of bridges, buildings, pavements, and other infrastructure. This blog explores the importance of expansion joints, with a focus on their applications in concrete, bridges, and various structural elements. We’ll also examine the different types used in concrete pavement, and why every architect or engineer should have a deep understanding of... View Article
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