Category: Building knowledge

    • South Florida home style guide – Mediterranean revival, Contemporary, Key West…and many more!

      Throughout the nation there are many types and styles of homes. Most of these styles have originated in some tradition of design, available materials or trends of the time. They have adapted to the specific climates and workmanship of the area; South Florida is no exception. There are many types of styles that surround us.…

    • Looking at the Future – An inside report on a Florida Office Building fully powered by Solar Energy

      A guest post by Rush Hood, P.E., and Jeffrey J. Basiaga, Jr.   The “IEEE FWCS Industrial Tour Series” sponsored a tour of the Landmarc Construction Net Zero Energy Building in Tampa on March 28, 2013 hosted by Mr. Spencer Kass, Landmarc VP.   He has installed and is operating a practical, utility-connected, photovoltaic generation system. The office…

    • Water and wastewater (WWW) treatment – a look at the energy used for water in the US

      While water and wastewater (WWW) treatment accounts for a surprising 5% of total U.S. electric power generation, topographically-variable WWW conveyance account for a more surprising 15% of the same total [Pod06; Coh04]. In addition, while wastewater contains energy in dilute form, current goals for recovering such energy represent only 0.02% of the total generation, through…

    • Outdoor Kitchens – Concept and Planning

      What is an outdoor kitchen? An outdoor kitchen is a way of turning the kitchen and not the dining room or living room into an entertainment space. They can contain a bar, seating, cabinets, a grill, sinks, and even ovens and stovetops. It is a way of showcasing cooking to family and friends, without feeling…

    • New Residential Client Survey – Architectural Services

      Jane Decker, my co-host of ArchiTalk Radio (www.ArchiTalkRadio.com) recently sent this questionnaire for feedback about new residential clients. It is a great tool to help anyone getting started on a residential renovation or new project to be aware of and consider: INSTRUCTIONS: Please read these questions in their entirety before answering. Then, consult with your…

    • A Green “Home Away From Home”

      Becoming environmentally conscious has emerged as a main concern of homeowners, business owners, and the government over the past decade. Green homes, with lower potable water consumption, less energy use, and better building materials are sprouting up all over the world and commercial businesses are following their lead. All of the basics of sustainability easily…