Buying a home and designing it

When it comes to buying a home, a lot of attention is given to details like location, neighbourhood, price, community services, communication etc. While these exterior factors need due attention, the looks and arrangements of a home's interior plays an important role tooSuitable fittings and furniture make a home look attractive and ensure comfortable living. Today a variety of cabinets and custom made furniture are making interior designing a state-of-the-art affair. Cabinetry and furniture include a wide range of options from where one can choose the best combination suiting the needs of the interior space in different rooms.

However, alternative to a new installation or complete remodelling, one can improve the look and feel of rooms by an inexpensive cabinet refacing or a minor trim. Cabinets that are usually familiar include kitchen cabinets, outdoor kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinets, office cabinets or home office cabinets, built-In cabinets, Other furniture that are normally required for making an optimum use of the space include various custom wood furniture like bookcases, hutches and credenzas, wall units, closet systems, solid surface and laminate countertops, furniture for entertainment centers etc.

While these are mostly designed for home use, many of them are extensively used in small offices, corporate buildings, shops and stores. Commercial casework is a common requirement in shops and stores. In these places, standard and custom moldings with occasional trim are also frequently needed. Whatever are the designing needs, it is always a professional installation that makes the money spent behind the fittings and furniture worth.

Interior decoration and designing aim to achieve primarily two things. It focuses on the most optimum use of space without unnecessary cluttering and aim to achieve the best output from the fittings and/or furniture fixed from the utility point of view.

It is always better to look at the design drawings of your home and plan the cabinetry or furniture accordingly. There are numerous custom wood furniture companies who would do the same with your needs of cabinet refacing, minor trims, and new installations or complete remodelling. You may be a master on carpentry but when it comes to renovate, remodel or trim your home interior, it is better to rely on a professional installation. Moreover, when renovations like solid surface or laminate countertops with standard and custom moldings are needed, you will have very little freedom to play with your home design.

Interior designs with furniture or cabinets come in different style categories like traditional, contemporary, country, renaissance etc. You may choose different kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinets, bookcases, display cabinets, hutches and credenzas, wall units, closet systems or your home office cabinets from a variety of styles available from the catalogues available with the furniture and cabinets companies.

Job of professionals is best performed by professionals! It is therefore better to handover a copy of the engineering drawing of your home to the professional designers who can plan a number of alternatives for you to choose from. They may even suggest a cabinet refacing instead of a new cabinet you already planned for and thus save your money. Professional installations of cabinets and other custom wood furniture for entertainment centers, office cabinets, commercial caseworks, solid surface or laminate countertops, minor or major trims with standard or custom moldings may cost you a little more cash. But the cost is worth it. Good luck.

By: naveen3



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Structural Engineers of Northern California Say Advancements Will Save Lives, Property and Infrastructure When Next Hayward Earthquake Occurs

HAYWARD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As part of the commemoration of the 140th anniversary of the 1868 Hayward earthquake -- the first great “San Francisco earthquake” and one of the most damaging earthquakes in the nation’s history -- members of the Structural Engineers Association of Northern California will present important information at the upcoming Hayward Earthquake Symposium. Their presentations on the advancements of engineering knowledge and technical guidelines in the past 140 years will collectively demonstrate that few lives will be lost and total building collapses will be rare as a result of future earthquakes “if we all work together and get prepared.”
Scientists warn that the Hayward Fault is a “Time Bomb” that releases huge amounts of damaging energy every 140 years. The next big earthquake on the Hayward Fault will affect the lives of the two million people who live, work, attend school and rely on the utilities and transportation systems in the vicinity.
“We may not be able prevent earthquakes from occurring, but catastrophe is not inevitable,” said Reinhard Ludke, a prominent Bay Area structural engineer and president of SEAONC, the premier association of practicing Structural Engineers in the Bay Area and one of the sponsoring groups of the Symposium.
“Earthquake preparation includes strengthening structures as well as public agencies, businesses, and families developing emergency response plans. The tragedy is that we have the knowledge to prevent major damage and protect public safety, but public officials and people often don’t take advantage of it. Structural Engineers want to be in a position to look back after any quake and be able to talk about what we protected and saved, and not recall what we lost.”
The Symposium takes place October 22-24, at the California State University, East Bay, Hayward Hill Campus. The media is invited to attend any of the sessions. The public is invited to attend an open forum on October 23, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Here is a rundown of the presentations by Structural Engineers:
David Bonowitz is presenting a talk on how the advances in engineering standards can even better support community efforts to reduce earthquake risk. “In the past ten years, technical guidelines for earthquake evaluation and retrofit of buildings have proliferated,” Bonowitz said. “These guidelines are invaluable to engineers working on specific projects and now we want to make them even more useful to the people who decide whether and when to reduce earthquake risk in our built environment -- legislators, emergency planners, lenders, developers, and insurers. Guidelines and reference home retrofit drawings are widely available from local building officials who support residential building strengthening.”
Structural Engineers Joe Maffei and Karl Telleen will discuss advances in techniques to assess the potential earthquake damage to a structure, before an earthquake actually occurs. “We tested a set of new guidelines on several buildings near the Hayward Fault in Oakland, Berkeley and other locations,” reported Telleen, “and found that these new, probability-based methods allow engineers to better quantify expected structural performance and measure it against specific performance goals, such as allowing safe entry to a building after a quake.”
Structural Engineers Kit Miyamoto and Amir Gilani will present an overview and evaluation of the extensive Sichuan Earthquake damage and draw comparisons to SF Bay Area. For example, in past earthquakes in California, not unlike the earthquake in China, URM and nonductile concrete buildings have performed poorly and nonstructural and equipment damage has been widespread even in moderate earthquakes. “Fortunately for residents and businesses in the Bay Area,” said Miyamoto, “robust assessment techniques and conventional and innovative retrofit strategies are available to address such vulnerabilities.”
Engineer John Osteraas will talk on important assessment guidelines -- and the associated research and testing -- that can facilitate repair of residential wood-frame buildings. “While we expect that total building collapse will be rare in future quakes, overall building damage may be extensive,” Osteraas said. “These important assessment guidelines will help design professionals and contractors quickly and efficiently determine the damage and required building repairs of any structure.”
Engineers Alan Kropp and Wayne Magnusen review some innovative foundations for structures in the East Bay hillsides, areas that are currently experiencing slow downhill creep even in times of non-seismic conditions. “Our studies show that the performance of these mat foundations has been good in non-seismic times and will certainly be beneficial during an earthquake,” said Kropp.
Founded in 1930, The Structural Engineers Association of Northern California is committed to advancing the art and science of structural engineering.

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An Architect ??? ... a Structural Engineer ???

An Architect is artists, a Structural Engineer is scientist.An Architect design a building and makes it attractive and functional, a Structural Engineer ensures its still standing in ten years.
An Architect deal with more of the design, the look and layout of a building, a Structural Engineer makes it work.An Architect would design a building and then take it to a Structural Engineer for editing determining feasibility of the design with issues of balance, loading bearing walls, and materials.A Structural Engineer study a lot more physics and materials science while an Architect involve themselves more in aesthetics.
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Find A Good Church Architect For Unique Church Design Ideas

The local church is a very important place for each community of believers. The church design and construction process bears great importance, as a good church architecture that is representative of a certain community and their faith is the best way to bring God closer to believers. Aside from expressing purpose and faith, church architecture can make a powerful invitation to those who want to express their faith and repent of their sins. Church architecture has experienced tremendous changes over the past decades. With churchgoers looking for different kinds of ministry, new church design ideas have emerged. These new forms of expression include both functionality (such as allowing access for people with disabilities) and symbolism. There are many aspects to be taken into account when considering church design and construction. Whatever your church plans may be, the insight of a good architect who has a wealth of experience in church architecture is extremely valuable. A good church architect can give you some excellent church design ideas and help you turn your church into a place that is both welcoming and inviting, as well as very representative of your individual values and theology.

The number one question that all the people involved in church design and construction ask themselves is how to find a good church architect. The market is abundant with architects whose background and expertise is extremely varied. It would be wrong to assume that an architect who has not handled a church design and construction project before would not be able to complete such as task successfully. However, an architect with considerable experience in church design is more likely to be able to provide valuable church design ideas that are most appropriate to your specific needs and requirements, as well as to your individual theology and values. Many architects have their specific design style, which may not match your ideas and intentions. Furthermore, your church plans may include specific style and size, as well as a certain budget limitation. Good architects can generally meet such specific requirements, but they don’t always manage to express your individual nuance of worship style and denomination. Therefore, it is highly advisable that you use the services of an experienced church architect who is already familiar with all the specific aspects of designing and constructing a church. As has been said before, an experienced church architect can provide some unique church design ideas, which will add value to the architecture of your church and make it a special place for your congregation. If you are asking yourselves how to find a church architect, you should look no further. There are quite a few aspects to take into consideration when looking for an architect for your church plans, but I daresay that a church architect who has handled numerous projects of the kind is by far your best choice. His insight and unique church design ideas will prove extremely valuable whatever your church plans may include. An experienced architect’s church design ideas and expertise are all the more valuable when you want to build a new church from the ground, expand your church or convert warehouses into church facilities. These, and many other projects concerning church design and construction, are best completed with the help of a good church architect.
By: Groshan Fabiola

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Architect Or Building Designer – Who Do You Choose?

Thinking of building a new home or complex? Will you use an architect or a building designer? Both are involved in the design of buildings – their appearance, layout, structure, and so on. But what’s the difference?
The simplest difference is a legal one. To be called an “architect” in NSW, you have to be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW. The title “building designer” can be used by anyone designing buildings.
But that’s hardly even scratching the surface. Brian Basford is a building designer and treasurer of the Building Designers Association of NSW. He suggests that building designers are generally less expensive, and mostly involved in less flamboyant buildings. “It’s horses for courses. Most architects probably wouldn’t want to design a single bedroom extension for a pensioner, whereas I’ve done a lot of that.”
Brian also stressed that there are quite often overlaps between what architects do and what building designers do. There’s no simple rule. “But no matter what the job, good building designers and good architects both produce quality work”, he says.
Architect Gary Kurzer agrees that architects are more likely to be involved with more distinctive, “up-market” buildings. But not because of cost. “Architects work to your budget just like building designers. The real reason is that architects are a little more likely to stretch the boundaries and challenge convention.”
According to Gary, you should generally choose an architect if you want more than just a literal translation of your brief. “My clients normally have a rough idea of what they want. I take that idea and transform it into something they love, but could never have imagined themselves.”
The most important thing is knowing what you want from the service, and choosing someone that suits your job.
And whether you choose an architect or building designer, remember, qualifications are no guarantee of quality. Always ask to see previous examples of their work. Ask for references from previous customers. Ask to see their qualifications. Ask how long they’ve been working. Do they have professional indemnity insurance? Are they a member of an accredited body?…
In the end, it’s like anything else… there’s no substitute for common sense.
Thanks to Gary Kurzer, Architect, 0411044448, and Brian Basford, Building Designer.
FAQs
Q: Are architects and building designers the same thing?
A: No. Architects must be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW.
Q: Will I get a better design from an architect?
A: Not necessarily. The only guarantee is a minimum level of qualifications. Architects must have a Bachelor of Architecture degree (5 years) as well as the demonstrated ability to deal with clients and satisfy their requirements. Generally this means at least a couple of years experience in an architect’s office.
Q: Are building designers more in touch with builders and other trades?
A: Not necessarily. Architects are trained to deal with and manage all aspects of the building project. It all comes down to the individual’s experience and abilities.
Q: Are Building designers “would-be” architects?
A: No. Building design is a recognised profession with its own national body (the BDAA) offering 3 levels of accreditation based on experience and quality – but registration isn’t compulsory. Many building designers have the qualifications to register with the Board of Architects but they choose not to because they don’t think the name “architect” is worth the ongoing cost of registration.
Q: Are architects more expensive?
A: Not necessarily. An architect will work to your budget like a building designer. They can do anything from a simple design to very complex interior and exterior detailing to superintendence of the building process. Your building costs and ongoing running costs may also be less. For example, find out if your architect is incorporating cost-saving measures into the building process. They may also design to take advantage of natural lighting, ventilation, heating, cooling, etc. which will save you less in electricity.
Q: How do I tell if they’re really an architect?
A: Call the Board of Architects of NSW – (02) 93564900 or visit http://www.boarch.nsw.gov.au/f_consumer.html.
Q: How do I look for an accredited building designer?
A: Call the Building Designers Association of NSW – Sydney (02) 49264855 or visit http://www.bdansw.com.au or http://www.bdaa.com.au/index.htm.
Q: Where else can I go for further information?
A: http://www.architecture.com.au - Royal Australian Institute of Architectshttp://www.bdansw.com.au - Building Designers Association of NSW

By: Glenn Murray ...Read More...

Architects Now Designing Homes For Mortals

Owining a architect designed home is now possible as overseas prooperty developers empoy the use of famous modern architects to help sell thier homes.

The concept of owning a home designed by a well known architect is something most of would only dream of. Times are changing and so are the marketing plans of many property developers who are increasingly using well known architects to sell their homes.

It is true that international property investors have a huge choice of luxury resorts from around the world to choose from. With so much competition attracting the most desirable customers is becoming increasingly difficult. One way in which some resort developers have decided to attract potential buyers is by using high-profile architects on their projects.

Shigery Ban, who designed the Pompidou Centre in Metz, Zaha Hadid, Piero Lissoni, Chad Oppenheim and Japan's Kengo Kuma are all well-known architects and designers and they are all being employed to design luxury hotels and resorts. What's even more astounding is that this group of celebrity architects is currently working on one resort - Dellis Cay. This private island is part of the Turks and Caicos Islands in the Caribbean.

Dellis Cay is being developed by Turkish tourism magnate Dr. Cem Kinay. Piero Lissini is designing the main hotel and a set of villas in his typically modern, bold and simple style. In a recent interview in The Independent, Dr. Kinay notes that "The architects are our biggest selling point." One bedroom apartments on Dellis Cay start at £835,000.

Another new development that is making use of well-known architects is Portugal's Bom Sucesso, north of Lisbon on the Silver Coast. There are more than 20 popular European architects that are working on different designs and buildings for Bom Sucesso, including Alcino Soutinho, Goncalo Byrne, Alvaro Siza Vieira and even England's award-winning David Chipperfield. The architects adhered to a set of rules that provide the formal unity of the project, but which simultaneously enabled them to follow their own original and specific objectives. Most important among these rules and vital for the originality of the resort, was that all rooftops should be covered in greenery and any walls should either be covered in greenery or else simply not exist at all.

Other resorts around the world are using architects to get a leg up on the competition. Melvin Villarroel is working on a community in Marbella, Spain called Lomas Club. Homes at this development are also being designed by Angel Taborda and Victoria Guana, and Villarroel is also working on several other new resorts in Spain.

Matteo Thun is designing a new set of fascinating apartments in the Austrian resort of Katschberg called Edel:Weiss. Sir Norman Foster is working on several projects; one is in Egypt called Serrenia and there is also Corniche Bay resort in Mauritius. These villas will only cost £1.7 million.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Author: Nicholas Marr is CEO of overseas property investment web site http://www.homesgofast.com/David_Chipperfield.php ...Read More...

14 Structural Engineers Now Publicly Challenge Government's Explanation for Destruction of the World Trade Center

14 structural engineers now publicly challenge the government's account of the destruction of the Trade Centers on 9/11:A prominent engineer with 55 years experience, in charge of the design of hundreds of major building projects including high rise offices, former member of the California Seismic Safety Commission and former member of the National Institute of Sciences Building Safety Council (Marx Ayres) believes that the World Trade Centers were brought down by controlled demolition (see also this)
Two professors of structural engineering at a prestigious Swiss university (Dr. Joerg Schneider and Dr. Hugo Bachmann) said that, on 9/11, World Trade Center 7 was brought down by controlled demolition (translation here)Kamal S. Obeid, structural engineer, with a masters degree in Engineering from UC Berkeley, of Fremont, California, says:
"Photos of the steel, evidence about how the buildings collapsed, the unexplainable collapse of WTC 7, evidence of thermite in the debris as well as several other red flags, are quite troubling indications of well planned and controlled demolition"Ronald H. Brookman, structural engineer, with a masters degree in Engineering from UC Davis, of Novato California, writes:
"Why would all 110 stories drop straight down to the ground in about 10 seconds, pulverizing the contents into dust and ash - twice. Why would all 47 stories of WTC 7 fall straight down to the ground in about seven seconds the same day? It was not struck by any aircraft or engulfed in any fire. An independent investigation is justified for all three collapses including the surviving steel samples and the composition of the dust."Graham John Inman, structural engineer, of London, England, points out:
"WTC 7 Building could not have collapsed as a result of internal fire and external debris. NO plane hit this building. This is the only case of a steel frame building collapsing through fire in the world. The fire on this building was small & localized therefore what is the cause?"Paul W. Mason, structural engineer, of Melbourne, Australia, argues:
"In my view, the chances of the three buildings collapsing symmetrically into their own footprint, at freefall speed, by any other means than by controlled demolition, are so remote that there is no other plausible explanation!"Mills M. Kay Mackey, structural engineer, of Denver, Colorado, points out:
"The force from the jets and the burning fuel could not have been sufficient to make the building collapse. Why doesn't the media mention that the 11th floor was completely immolated on February 13th, 1975? It had the weight of nearly 100 stories on top of it but it did not collapse?"Haluk Akol, Structural Engineer and architect (ret.)Charles Pegelow, structural engineer, of Houston, Texas (and see this)Dennis Kollar, structural engineer, of West Bend, WisconsinDoyle Winterton, structural engineer (retired)Michael T. Donly, P.E., structural engineerWilliam Rice, P.E., structural engineer, former professor of Vermont Technical CollegeThere are many other structural engineers who have questioned the government's account in private. We support them and wish them courage to discuss these vital issues publicly.See also this.

George Washington
George Washington is a pen name. I am using the pen name, with the approval of the publisher, because I have received death threats due to my 9/11 research and writing. I am using a pen name to protect myself and my family.
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Guide to buying kitchen flooring by housetohome.co.uk

Buyer's guide to kitchen flooring
From limestone to linoleum, concrete to cork, there's a host of flooring materials that can enhance the look of your kitchen. But before you set your heart on solid wood or splash out on ceramic, there are some important points to consider.
'The flooring you choose should complement your kitchen, rather than being the focal point,' says Richard Robson of Paris Ceramics. 'It should provide a platform for the rest of the room without demanding too much attention.' The ideal flooring will help to create a feeling of space and light, and if you have an open-plan living area, then consistency is crucial, so be sure to choose a material that can run all the way through. Certain products may work in the kitchen, but won't feel right for the living area, for example, and this could affect your overall decision.
'The key is to find a balance between beauty and durability,' says Tony Nicholas, managing director of Nicholas Anthony Kitchens. 'Always speak to professionals, who will be able to advise you how different floorings will fit in with your lifestyle.
Industrial style flooring
Concrete
Concrete adds a contemporary edge to a kitchen,' says Jonathan Reid of concrete surface design company White & Reid. Colours range from charcoal to antique white, and it's ideal for open-plan extensions, where it can be laid both inside and out. Concrete is fairly low maintenance once sealed, and one of its advantages is that it can be poured directly onto the existing floor without there having to be anything underneath to level it. There are also lightweight versions that can be used on upper floors, but ask a structural engineer for advice.
Resin
Resin used in residential projects has a soft and flexible finish that's seamless, comfortable to walk on, hygienic and deadens sound, too. 'A silk finish is best for kitchens,' advises John Wilson of Stratum UK resin floors. 'You can opt for gloss, which gives a real wow factor, but it doesn't have the hardness of polished marble or concrete. The gloss finish will eventually matt down and will need maintenance to bring it back to its former glory.' Remember, resin is a hand-applied system, so there might be minor flaws in the finish.
Tiles
Stone
Stone comes in such a range of sizes, colours and textures it can complement any style of kitchen,' says Richard Robson of Paris Ceramics. Choose from rich browns to muted tones in greys, greens and yellows. Even the best-quality limestone is porous, but the latest sealants are very effective and, once applied, the floor should be easy to maintain.'For a modern look, opt for matt-finish, extra-large tiles,' says Jo O'Grady at Stone Age. 'Distressed surfaces and random sizes, on the other hand, suit traditional kitchens.'
Porcelain
Porcelain is so versatile and can be made to look like anything from limestone to concrete, or even modern metallics and weaves,' says Cressida Johnstone at Surface. 'It's maintenance free and practically bomb proof, so good if you have a messy dog or kids.' The newest ranges include a wood effect, which looks indistinguishable from the real thing.
Composite Materials
With around 38 per cent quartz, quartz composite is part stone and part tile, and doesn't require sealing. One of the huge advantages is that you can have a matching work surface in the same material. To add glamour, choose a composite with metallic flecks - fabulous teamed with stainless steel.
Ceramic Tiles
Primarily made from clay and other natural materials, ceramic tiles come in many different shapes, colours and textures. They're less expensive than porcelain, but tend to be manufactured with fewer straight edges and square corners. This means that grout lines need to be thicker, resulting in a more grid-like finish. However, glazed Moroccan or Syrian tiles can still be beautiful.
Kitchen flooring need to know
Underfloor heating can be used with most modern flooring.
Stone and concrete warm up and retain heat well. But some wooden floors, particularly extra-wide boards, certain veneers and some types of adhesive, can be heat sensitive.
Most flooring is best fitted by a professional.
Some needs to be factored in at the start of the kitchen design process, whereas others can be installed afterwards. Ask the manufacturer in advance.
Even if your floor is sealed, you should still wipe up spills as soon as possible. And remember to use products recommended by the manufacturer to ensure you don't strip oils, lacquers or sealants.
Floors and Work Surfaces
Interior designer Clare Pascoe of Molten London gives us her tips for achieving the perfect flooring/work surface combination. But do you want to coordinate or contrast?
To coordinate, go for materials in the same finish (matt or gloss) and match the colours as closely as possible. Either choose a material that can be used for both worktops and floors, or match, say, a walnut floor to a rich brown stone or composite worktop.
Alternatively, contrast the finishes in the same colour, or contrast the colour in the same finish, such as a dark matt flooring with a pale matt composite worktop. You could even contrast both, such as a matt slate floor with a polished white granite worktop.
Bear in mind that kitchens are a long-term installation - make sure you won't tire of the finishes or colours you choose. Wood, wood style and other natural flooring
Solid Wood
Renewable and recyclable, boards can be a real plus when it comes to selling a house. However, solid wood may move and curl if used in a kitchen, as it's both moisture and heat sensitive. 'Decide how inert you want the floor to be,' says John Davies at Plastik Architects. 'Solid wood will change over time, so if you want your floor to stay the same, choose other materials.' Wooden floors can be finished in polyurethane lacquer, or natural linseed oil, which sets hard, seals and protects the wood. Most sealants will stand up to many years of traffic before they need reapplying. Choose any gloss level, but be aware that high gloss tends to show marks. 'Uniform boards give a modern look,' says Steve Maltby of Junckers. 'Boards with knots are more rustic.'
Engineered Boards
Constructed from multiple layers, engineered wood usually has a softwood or plywood base and a wood or wood-effect top layer. 'Water and wood are never a good combination, but whereas solid wood may gape or warp, engineered boards have a central core that stops the top and bottom layers moving,' explains Bill Worman at Element 7. Although engineered boards can feel less solid, they come in a variety of widths and finishes and are perfect for achieving a natural wood look.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring is made up of synthetic materials combined with natural and recycled ingredients. It comes in a number of formats, colours and designs, including wood, stone and tile. And companies such as Pergo have now introduced laminate with antimicrobial and antistatic properties, which are ideal for kitchens. It's super-durable - resistant to staining, wear and fading - making it perfect for high-traffic areas. Prices vary hugely, but you get what you pay for - choosing cheap laminate may result in ill-fitting, bouncy boards and will always be a false economy.
Cork
A long way from the curly orange tiles of the Seventies, modern cork flooring is available in a wide range of colours, designs and finishes. Tough and naturally antibacterial, it's great for people with allergies, too. 'There are an amazing 40 million cells of air in every cubic centimetre of cork,' says Paul Heatley from cork flooring company Wicanders, 'which makes it very comfortable underfoot. It also has exceptional acoustic benefits.' Cork is harvested without damaging the tree. In fact, removing the bark means the trees live longer.
bamboo
With a higher fibre rating than any hardwood, bamboo is incredibly durable and is less likely to gape than other solid woods. Usually pretreated by the manufacturer, it can be stained or left its natural colour, then sealed with a gloss or matt lacquer. Bamboo releases 35 per cent more oxygen into the atmosphere than trees, and is a fast-growing grass, so it can be harvested every 3-5 years, making it a very eco-friendly product.
Flexible Flooring
Rubber
Silky, warm and tactile, rubber flooring comes in a huge range of colours and textures. Architects say they use rubber as its so resilient, yet it feels soft underfoot. It really is as tough as old boots, says Julie Mellor at Dalsouple. If it doesn't wear out in an airport, then it wont in your kitchen. Choose a smooth surface or low-profile studs in a kitchen as they are easier to clean. Use products and polishes recommended by the manufacturer to maintain rubber flooring, especially initially, as its softer when new.
Linoleum
Similar in feel to rubber, linoleum's ingredients, the key one being linseed oil, are all natural and sustainable. 'Natural products like this have inherent benefits,' says Therese Magill at Forbo Flooring. 'They're really tough, but at the same time tactile and warm to the touch, making them comfy underfoot.' Linoleum is also hygienic: bacteria can't live on it and it doesn't harbour dust mites, making it ideal for people with allergies.
Vinyl
Modern, high-quality vinyl is a world away from old-fashioned vinyl sheeting. Exceptionally hard wearing, designs replicate the look and feel of anything from natural materials, such as wood, limestone, slate and marble, to more contemporary finishes, including zinc and glass. It can also be warmer and quieter underfoot than the real McCoy. 'Vinyl flooring such as Amtico is a good option if you have no time to maintain a delicate surface, but still want the look of a natural material,' advises Tony Nicholas of Nicholas Anthony Kitchens ...Read More...

Interior Design by Paul Tracey

More and more carpenters, kitchen and bathroom fitters, shop and interior designers, landscape gardeners and builders of decking and wood barns and are realising the need and benefits of coming off the drawing board and using a CAD system as their main design tool. The long term benefits are substantial in terms of time and cost and learning how to plan in some CAD packages is fairly easy for anyone in these business, especially those used to reading plans.
Some CAD programmes are exclusively 2D, but more and more these days clients want the ability to be able to view designs in 3D to get a clear idea of the finished look of the building and this is now possible with software costing about the same as a drawing board. It is also possible to photograph an existing interior, building or plot of land, import the picture into your computer, (this operation takes two minutes), and superimpose your revised design to present to the client. This level of technology, while easily learnt, gives any designer / builder an edge over rivals, especially if others are still relying on 2D drawings.
The first steps in putting the design together is no different on a computer than it is at the drawing board. There are a few lessons to be learnt, but for many packages this can take only a day and there is often on line or telephone help when stuck. The three big advantages to coming off the drawing board are firstly that mistakes and changes are easily corrected. Secondly, components used on a regular basis can be stored and simply dropped in, no need to re-draw each time. Thirdly, drawings can be electronically sent to clients, manufactures or possibly local authorities via the planning portal, for planning permission and comment.
Most designs, in all areas of construction, will need to be changed at some point to a greater or lesser degree. It may be the client changing their mind or the local authorities laying down restrictions. In the past this may have meant starting again with a new drawing but with a CAD drawing this is achieved painlessly by simply updating your drawing. Because it's easy to edit it is also easy to present the client with variations on a basic design without having to draw each one individually. Different colour combinations or wood finishes can be displayed with two clicks of the mouse and after a while being able to 'walk through' your proposed design will impress and win the contract.
It is important that the CAD system is able to read all the main file formats, as many as possible. As long as this is the case, swapping files with other companies and other designers is not a problem. It will also make reading Sketch Up files and building upon them possible. Being able to save as PDF will allow you to send designs to those without their own CAD package for approval or comment.
Once the fundamental skills are learnt designs will take a fraction of the time they used to, or if you've been paying an architect or CAD professional, will save you thousands of pounds in costs.
The more you use CAD the more you learn and the more possibilities start to open up. Large material libraries are available to be imposed on a surface with a click of the mouse. Bricks can be laid as Stretcher, Common, Flemish, English, Stack and Rowlock. Wood grains can be opened up, changed direction or colour and there are metals marbles, stones, textiles, wood flooring etc, etc. Furniture, either inside or garden, can be downloaded free and inserted into your design to give a more realistic look. Lighting can be changed to create shadows to add a bit of drama to the finished visualisation and - it becomes fun. ...Read More...

METHODS

The goal of structural design is to determine the number, material composition and thickness of the different layers within a pavement structure required to accommodate a given loading regime. This includes the surface course as well as any underlying base or subbase layers. This section is focused on the structural design of new pavement. Structural design for rehabilitation is covered in Maintenance & Rehabilitation.
Structural design is mainly concerned with determining appropriate layer thickness and composition. Calculations are chiefly concerned with traffic loading stresses; other environmentally related stresses (such as temperature) are accounted for in mix design asphalt binder selection. The principal methods of structural design in use today are (from simplest to most complex) catalogs, empirical and mechanistic-empirical.

From: WAPA Asphalt Pavement Guide ...Read More...

ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING, from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Architectural engineering
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Architectural engineering, also known as Building Engineering, is the application of engineering principles and technology to building design and construction. Definitions of an architectural engineer may refer to:
An engineer in the structural, mechanical, electrical, construction or other engineering fields of building design and construction.
A licensed engineering professional in parts of the United States, where architectural engineering may include complete building design.[citation needed]
In informal contexts, and formally in some places, a professional synonymous with or similar to an architect. In some languages, "architect" is literally translated as "architectural engineer". ...Read More...

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER, from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A structural engineer is an engineering professional who practices structural engineering. Structural engineers analyze, design, plan, and research structural components and structural systems. Their work takes account mainly of technical, economic and environmental concerns, but they may also consider aesthetic and social factors.
Structural engineering is usually considered a specialty discipline within civil engineering, but it can also be studied in its own right. In the US, most practising structural engineers are currently licensed as civil engineers, but the situation varies from state to state. In the UK, most structural engineers in the building industry are members of the Institution of Structural Engineers rather than the Institution of Civil Engineers.
Typical structures designed by a structural engineer include buildings, towers, stadia and bridges. Other structures such as oil rigs, space satellites, aircraft and ships may also be designed by a structural engineer. [1] Most structural engineers are employed in the construction industry, however there are also structural engineers in the aerospace, automobile and shipbuilding industries. In the construction industry, they work closely with architects, civil engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, quantity surveyors, and construction managers.
Structural engineers ensure that buildings and bridges are built to be strong enough and stable enough to resist all appropriate structural loads (e.g., gravity, wind, snow, rain, seismic (earthquake), earth pressure, temperature, and traffic). They also design structures to be stiff enough to not deflect or vibrate beyond acceptable limits. Fatigue may be an important consideration for bridges and for aircraft design, or for other structures which experience a large number of stress cycles over their lifetime. Consideration is also given to durability of materials against possible deterioration which may impair performance over the design lifetime. ...Read More...

ORIENTAL BUILDING ASSOCIATION

At 600 F Street, NW stood the OBA (Oriental Building Association) Federal Savings & Loan Association that was founded in 1861 as a "German" bank; the building, now closed, was designed by Albert Goehner. OBA remains the oldest savings and loan association in the nation and in 2003 moved a few blocks to 700 7th Street NW.

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OLD PATENT OFFICE BUILDING

As Secretary of the Interior from 1877 to 1881 under President Rutherford B. Hayes, Carl Schurz's office was located in the Patent Office Building that takes up the entire block bounded by 7th and 8th streets and F and G Streets, NW. Today, the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum are housed in the building.
In 1877, around the beginning of Schurz's tenure, a fire destroyed the third floor and attic of the west and north wings. The renovations to the building were carried out by fellow German-Americans Adolf Cluss and Paul Schulze. Certainly Cluss and Schurz would have known each other well since both were actively involved in the failed 1848 revolution in Germany and both were politically active and wrote for newspapers.
As part of the renovation work, Caspar Buberl, the Bohemian-born artist known chiefly for his work on the Pension Building created the relief panels on the north wall (allegories of Fire, Electricity and Magnetism, and Water), on the south wall (Agriculture, Industry and Invention, and Mining), and roundel portraits of American inventors (Franklin, Jefferson, Robert Fulton, and Eli Whitney) in the Patent Building's model hall.
Before becoming a member of the Cabinet, Schurz already knew Washington well, his first visit here having taken place in early Spring 1854, when he found the city "rather dismal." Read Schurz's description. In 1865-1866, just after the Civil War, Schurz was a reporter for the New York Tribune, whose Washington Office was located at "470 14th Street West" according to the 1866 City Directory. This was before Washington's street numbering system changed in 1869. The corresponding address became 515 14th St NW. The building is no longer standing.
Elected US Senator from Missouri in November 1868, Carl Schurz took office in March 1869 and moved back to Washington. In 1872, he lived at 1349 L Street NW and in 1874, the City Directory lists him as living at 826 14th Street NW. Neither building remains standing today.
While Secretary of the Interior, Schurz resided at 1719 H St NW, in a house that no longer exists.
Carl Schurz remains an important figure in Germany still today. In Liblar, Schurz's home town, just a few miles from Cologne, stands the castle where the future revolutionary and German-American journalist and statesman was born in 1829. The town's "Carl-Schurz-Kreis" has collected many materials about its most famous son. Not surprisingly, the town's school is named after him today. Bonn, the Federal Republic of Germany's first capital, also boasts a major local school with Schurz's name: the Carl-Schurz-Realschule, located at Albertus-Magnus-Str. 21. More about Schurz is available from a number of websites.
Carl Schurz died in New York in 1906.

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OBA BUILDING AT 6 F DESIGNED BY GERMAN ARCHITECT ALBERT GOEHNER

At 600 F Street, NW, stood the OBA (Oriental Building Association) Federal Savings & Loan Association that was founded in 1861 as a "German" bank; the building, now closed, was designed by Albert Goehner.

Goehner also designed the landmark-designated building at 423–425 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, which originally built in 1902 as the Kingman, the name later was changed to the President Monroe Apartment Building.

OBA remains the oldest savings and loan association in the nation and in 2003 moved a few blocks to 700 7th Street NW. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

As part of a larger fraternal organization, the association allowed individuals and small businesses in this German dominated neighborhood to pool resources and offer credit. The OBA exemplifies the historical importance of the District's immigrant self-help organizations and business relationships.

I began photographing the OBA Building in late summer 2004, focusing more on the Banana Republic billboard displays pasted to the west side of the building, facing the MCI Center. And, if my photographic memory and collection is correct, it was in November 2004 that the renovation process began. See my Time Changes project which was launched in February 2005 that depicts a photo taken on Veterans Day, 11 November 2004, of the OBA Building at the beginning stages of its redevelopment.

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ROMAN ARCHITECTURE

THE Roman fact of Roman architecture was in stabilityof structure dissociate from form and from any de­fined structural system. It was the stability of rigidity, ofinertia--of concrete. Rome realized the possibilities of thismaterial and made its employment general throughout theempire. That she should do so was characteristic, and therewas nothing better for her engineering purposes. It wascheap in itself and in the unskilled labor which could handleit; it was flexible--plastic--and might be turned to manyuses; above all, it was solid. Form was not inherent in it,but any form might be modeled from it by pouring it intothe desired mould. It had the strength which Rome re­spected, a strength that might underlie any shaping thatRome fancied.

From: A Background to Architecture
Book by Seward Hume Rathbun; Yale Unviersity Press, 1926. 395 pgs. ...Read More...

An Architect or Structural Engineer can be an Internet Marketer???

An Architect or Structural Engineer can be an Internet Marketer??? Yes, but an Architect or Structural Engineer must learn before. If you're an Indonesian and you an Architect or a Structural Engineer and want the other job, you can learn about Internet Marketing at Asian Brain IMC. An Architect or a Structural Engineer can get simple side job too with data entry job. They can sign up at Xclix or bux.to or clixsense. If you fresh graduate and don't have job, we suggest to look for side job, you can try to learn with Asian Brain IMC. ...Read More...