Association of Licensed Architects
$6.00 Volume 17, No. 4 Winter 2013
LicensedArc hitect A Pu blica tion of
the A ssoc iatio n of
Licen sed Arch itect s
See Inside for: ◆ 2013 ALA Design Award Winners ◆ Continuing Education: 5 Ways to Optimize Framing ◆ Limitation-of-Liability Clauses Effective When Enforceable ◆ The Contractor Two-Step ◆ Thriving in the New Norm: Strategies For Small Firm Success ◆ Playing The Occupant Load Game
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LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
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2013 ALA Design Award Winners
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FEATURES
Vol. 17, No. 4 Winter 2013 ON THE COVER
Giovannetti Community Shelter
7 36 47 6 40
12 18 16 14 4
ADA Advice ALA New Members Chapter News Code Corner Continuing Education
Firm Management Insurance Info Legal Issues Membership President’s Letter
Urbandale, IA Firm: ASK Studio, Brent Schipper, ALA, Kurtis Wolgast
ARTICLES
The project is a community shelter designed to meet FEMA safe room requirements. The architectural solution is a transparent building sitting on the knoll of the park, connecting all of the park’s elements at the locus called “shelter”.
Playing the Occupant Load Game
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Helpful tips for calculating occupancy load.
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Learn why you should consider including limitation-of-liability clauses in your contracts.
by Kelly P. Reynolds, ALA Code Consultant
Fire Service Access Elevators Coordinate with Accessible Means of Egress
Limitation-of-Liability Clauses Effective When Enforceable
by Shawn E. Goodman, Sabo & Zahn, Attorneys at Law
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Review provisions of the 2012 International Building Code for Fire Service Access Elevators.
The Contractor Two-Step
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Concerns related to specification writing in contract documents.
by Kimberly Paarlberg, RA, ICC
by Robert Stanton, CPCU, RPLU, ARM, Willis A&E
The Additional Insured Conundrum 9 This article focuses on the potentially hazardous and surprising consequences of adding clients and others as additional insured to the A/E’s general liability insurance policy(s). by Michael G. Welbel, M.G. Welbel and Associates
Thriving in the New Norm: Strategies for Small Firm Success As firms move into 2014, there is an opportunity to reboot and think expansively about future possibilities. by Rena M. Klein, FAIA, RM Klein Consulting
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Economic Update
38
Reed Construction Data takes a look back at last year and at the forecast for 2014. by Bernard Markstein, Ph.D., U.S. Chief Economist, Reed Construction Data
5 Ways to Optimize Framing
40
Earn 1.0 LU in HSW while learning how advanced framing can save materials and time while boosting your homes’ efficiencies. by Bob Clark, APA – The Engineered Wood Association
LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
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PUBLISHER’S INFO PUBLISHER ALA, Inc.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jeffrey N. Budgell, FALA - President James K. Zahn, Esq., FALA, Vice President Mark Van Spann, FALA - Secretary Patrick C. Harris, FALA - Treasurer Joanne Sullivan, Executive Director Steven H. Pate, FALA Past President
DIRECTORS: James J. Belli, FALA Judith Brill, ALA David Dial, ALA Doug Gallus, FALA Rick Gilmore, FALA Tom Harkins (Affiliate) Kurt Hezner, FALA Darrel LeBarron, ALA Pat Manley, ALA Jeff Whyte, ALA
EDITORS Lisa Brooks Jeffrey N. Budgell, FALA Robert Davidson, FALA Patrick C. Harris, FALA Steven H. Pate, FALA
ALATHEPRESIDENT’SLETTER It is year end and that means Holiday time! It also means it is time for the ALA Awards Banquet. This year there were 41 winning projects out of 96 total entries. This year the ALA Banquet was held at the Metropolis Ballroom in downtown Arlington Heights, Illinois. Geoffrey Baer was again our Emcee for the evening and once again did a terrific job. The event was a spectacular success! Our 2013 ALA Conference and Trade show at Drury Lane in Oak Brook, Illinois was also a success. In fact, it was our most successful show to date with a sell out on vendor booths and one of the largest attendee turnouts in the history of the event. Our keynote speaker, Kai-Uwe Bergmann, from Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) was outstanding!
Joanne Sullivan
Opinions expressed in articles are not necessarily those of ALA, Inc. Any reference to a product or service is not to be construed as an endorsement of same. Advertising published in Licensed Architect does not constitute nor imply an endorsement or recommendation of the advertiser’s products by ALA, Inc., or any of its members. ALA reserves the right to review all advertising for acceptability. For advertising, or membership information, call or write Joanne Sullivan at:
Brick Industry Association Boral Stone Products Chicago Roofing Contractors Assoc. Energy Center of Wisconsin Frantz Ward, LLP Graphisoft Hoover Treated Wood Products, Inc. Interline Creative Group, Inc. International Leak Detection
Jeffrey N. Budgell, FALA, LEED AP President
Kelly P. Reynolds & Associates, Inc. Ohio Stormwater Assoc. Pittsburgh Corning Corporation Reading Rock Schuyler, Roche & Crisham, P.C. The Vinyl Institute, Inc. To the Top Home Elevators Tremco Barrier Solutions
- Advertisers Thank you to our Advertisers. They make this magazine possible. Baird’s Drapery Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 CertainTeed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Chicago Plastering Institute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Chicagoland Roofing Council . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 GM Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Heley Duncan & Melander, PLLP . . . . . . . . . . 39
Crivello, Carlson, S.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Kelly P. Reynolds & Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . 6 Moshe Calamaro and Associates. . . . . . . . . . 36 SABO & ZAHN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Tee Jay Service Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The Hill Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
If you have an address correction, wish to submit news items, press releases, or an article, contact:
ALA, One East Northwest Highway, Suite 200, Palatine, IL 60067 Phone: (847) 382-0630; Fax: (847) 382-8380; E-mail: ALA@alatoday.org Web Site: www.alatoday.org
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Jeffrey Budgell
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GRAPHIC DESIGN/MAGAZINE
ALA, Inc. serves the architectural profession. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form without the express written consent of the publisher. Published in the U.S.A.,© 2013 by ALA, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Additionally in this issue, we have another article from Rena Klein entitled "Thriving in the New Norm - Strategies for Small Firm Success", our Reed economic update, legal issues and a contributed insurance article by Mike Welbel on A/E firms facing new and potentially growing exposure. Lastly, it is membership renewal time. YOUR association continues to provide many valuable services and is constantly seeking and adding new benefits for our members! Membership renewals are in the mail and you can renew online at ALATODAY.org or via US Mail. Should you have any questions on renewal or any other topic contact the office at 847-382-0630.
LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
Joanne Sullivan One East Northwest Highway, Suite 200, Palatine, IL 60067 Phone: (847) 382-0630 • Fax: (847) 382-8380 E-mail: ALA@alatoday.org
CODECORNER
by Kelly P. Reynolds ALA Code Consultant
Playing The Occupant Load Game ccupant load can have a critical effect on what is required in a building. It can determine use group, number of plumbing fixtures, number of exits, and fire protection system thresholds. The "rule of thumb" has been that if the building services more than 50 people, then a second exit is required. If the corridors serve less than 30 people, then no rating is required. But, those rules are not always the case. Let us examine two examples for calculating occupancy load. ◆ THE BASICS - There are 10 basic use group definitions in Chapter 3 of the IBC. However, when calculating occupancy load, you must go to Table 1004.1.2 of the Code. There you will notice that the use groups are expanded by "function of space". The "occupant load factor" (floor area in sq. ft. per
ROBERT D. ZANK, ALA Licensed Architect 10 Year ALA Professional Member
occupant) is then determined by gross or net figures. GROSS is measured within the exterior walls without deduction for corridors, stairways, closets or thickness of walls. NET is the "actual occupied area" not including unoccupied accessory areas such as corridors, stairways, restrooms, equipment rooms and closets. The NET references in Table 1004.1.2 are for assembly-type uses. ◆ ACTUAL NUMBER - An automated pharmaceutical warehouse is 50,00 sq. ft. However, there are only five people who work there in a control room. They do not go into the warehouse because all products are bar coded and RFID marked. Everything is stored and shipped by robotics. Therefore, the actual occupant load is 5 persons. It would be posted and the exits and number of restrooms would be based on that "actual number". ◆ ALLOWABLE NUMBER - A restaurant wants to avoid the fire sprinkler requirements for A Use Group of 100 or more persons. Based on the NET floor area using Table 1004.1.2, over 100 persons could occupy the restaurant. However, the owner claims he will not provide seating for that threshold number of 100 persons. This concept is not permitted due to the fact of who is going to monitor the occupancy load when it is able to accommodate 100 or more persons? The allowable number refers to the number of persons who could occupy the building.
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ADAADVICE
Fire Service Access Elevators Coordinate with Accessible Means of Egress by Kimberly Paarlberg, Senior Staff Architect and Beth Tubbs, Senior Staff Engineer, ICC
he 2009 and 2012 editions of the International Building Code® (IBC) include provisions for Fire Service Access Elevators (FSAE). This article will focus on provisions of the 2012 IBC. The intent for requiring FSAE was twofold: 1) to provide for an elevator system useable for a longer period of time during a fire event; and 2) to provide for a system that would increase the comfort level of and the usability for firefighters using that elevator system. Since the fire department uses elevators for both staging to fight the fire and for assisted evacuation, the addition of this system is also beneficial for those occupants of the building who need assistance to evacuate. The basic requirements in Section 3007 for the FSAE are as follows: All elevators, including the FSAE, are required to comply with the ASME A17.1/CSA B44 (3001.2, 3007.1) elevator safety standard. Two FSAE are required to serve all floors where a building has an occupied floor more than 120 feet above the street level (i.e., lowest level of fire department vehicle access) (Section 403.6.1). If the building has only one elevator, the code would allow for one FSAE (403.6.1). The FSAE can be the same elevator used for normal circulation in the building. This is not intended to be a specially reserved elevator. The FSAE has to be identified by a fire hat symbol (3007.7.5). The FSAE is required to have a capacity not less than 3,500 pounds (403.6.1). The FSAE also can be the elevator sized to accommodate the ambulance stretcher (3002.4), but it is not specifically required to be the same elevator.
Typically, an elevator goes into Phase I recall when smoke activates the smoke detectors in the lobby, hoistway or elevator machine room; or when the fire department initiates recall. FSAEs must go into Phase I recall immediately upon activation of any building fire alarm. If there are more than two elevators in the same bank, the elevators that are not FSAE can continue to operate until they are recalled by the typical means. This is especially important if a building also has Occupant Evacuation Elevators (3008). It is not the intent to override Phase I recall or Phase II emergency operation, but rather to be in addition to those requirements. The building sprinkler system must not include sprinklers in the elevator machine room/space or the shaft for the fire service access elevators (3007.3.1). In addition, these spaces should be protected by smoke detection that would initiate Phase I recall (903.3.1.1.1Exception 6). Each floor of the building must have a sprinkler control supervisory switch and a water flow-initiating device. The intent is to find the origin of the fire so the staging area can be determined (3007.3.2). There is a concern that water from the sprinklers would get into the hoistway, either under the elevator doors and hoistway walls by flooding, or by the sprinklers spraying on the elevator doors. Solutions include trench drains at the elevator doors and curbs around the rest of the hoistway; sloped floors that drain away from the hoistway; gasketted opening and sealing cracks at the base of the hoistway walls (3007.4). Shunt trips typically turn off an elevator when water gets into the hoistway. Protecting the hoistway from water infiltration means the shunt LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
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trip is not necessary in the FSAE (3007.5). Hoistways for the FSAE are required to be fire-resistant and meet structural integrity requirements for shafts in high-rise buildings (403.2.3, 708, 3007.6, 3007.6.1). In addition, lighting must be provided within the hoistway (3007.6.2). The light allows firefighters to check for fire, smoke or water in the hoistway and aids the firefighters’ escape through the top of the cab if the elevator stops. A key component for the FSAE are the lobby requirements. The same lobby used for the FSAE also can be used as the lobby for normal building circulation. This lobby will contain the two-way communication required for persons who cannot use the stairway to communicate with emergency responders (1007.8). Evacuation information signage in the elevator lobby can direct people for accessible means of egress (1007.10). Persons with mobility impairments may be waiting in this lobby for fire department evacuation assistance. Fire officials will determine whether to move these individuals into the elevators immediately, or carry them down the stairway to another level and use the elevators from there. Fire and Safety evacuation plans will address how this will be handled. (1001.4, IFC 404). The lobby must be enclosed with a smoke barrier having a fire resistance rating of not less than 1 hour (3007.7.2). The smoke barrier wall can terminate at the elevator hoistway; thus, the walls of the elevator hoistway form part of the enclosure around the lobby. Therefore, no protection is required on the doors between the elevator hoistway and the lobby. Since there are lobbies at all floors other than the floor at the level of exit discharge, the chance of smoke moving up the elevator hoistway will be minimized. Other than the elevator doors, openings into the lobby shall have a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour and meet smoke and draft control assembly requirements (3007.7.3). The minimum lobby size for FSAE is not less than 150 square feet, with a minimum dimension in either direction of 8 feet. This will result in a lobby at least 8 feet by 18.75 feet, a fairly standard lobby size. This will allow space for the fire department to stage firefighting operations. The lobby size requirements are the same whether you have one or more FSAEs. It is the designer’s choice to provide additional area for the general means of egress through this lobby, or additional area for persons who need assistance to wait within the elevator lobby. Additional area may not be needed if it assumed that once the fire department arrives, the first trip back down for fire department equipment also can take persons who need assistance to the level of exit discharge or another safe place within the building. The exit stairway must be directly accessed from the lobby (3007.7.1). The occupant of the fire floor should have begun
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Fire department staging to fight a fire.
evacuation before the fire department has arrived; however, there may still be building occupants evacuating through the FSAE lobby to get to the stairway. A Class I standpipe will be located within that stairway enclosure (3007.10). Typically, the fire department stages two floors below the fire floor and moves up to the fire floor through the exit stairway. Using a hose from the standpipe will keep the door to the enclosure open. So there will not be a risk of getting smoke into the elevator lobby, there must also be a door out of the stairway that does not lead through the FSAE lobby (3007.10). There will be a system to monitor the FSAE from the fire command center (3007.8). Standby power must be provided for the elevator equipment, elevator hoistway lighting, the HVAC system in the elevator machine room and the elevator controlling cooling equipment (3007.9). All wires outside the shaft shall be protected by 2 hour fire resistance rated construction or a circuit integrity cable (3007.9.1). The key to the success of FSAEs is that the criteria was developed through a committee which included representatives from the elevator industry, firefighters, members of the building design community, and of the building codes and standards industry. The result is an elevator system that can be constructed to serve the needs of the general circulation and emergency responders; will be used by the fire service effectively; and is a true benefit for persons who need assistance in evacuation. The concept of a FSAE was supported by research through the Government Service Administration (GSA) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The ICC Code Technologies Committee (CTC) continues to have a code development study group that looks at issues such as elevator lobby design, FSAE and occupant evacuation elevators that will improve the functions of such systems. One of the items they took on as part of Group A code changes was how an exit stairway could be more remotely located from the FSAE lobby in high-rise buildings without a central core design. You can review Group-A information at www.iccsafe.org This article originally appeared in the August 2013 issue of the Building Safety Journal Online, copyright International Code Council, and is reprinted with permission.
CONTRIBUTEDARTICLE
The Additional Insured Conundrum A/E Firms Face a New and Potentially Growing Liability Exposure by Michael G. Welbel, M.G. Welbel and Associates
THE ISSUE
R
ecent court decisions and increasingly onerous client demands are creating substantial insurance related difficulties for design firms. This article will focus on the potentially hazardous and surprising consequences of adding clients and others as additional insureds to the A/E’s general liability insurance (CGL) policy(s).
A recent Illinois Appellate Court Decision illustrates this threat: Patrick Engineering Inc. (Patrick) v. Old Republic General Insurance Co (Old Republic). The basic facts are: Patrick was retained by Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) to provide engineering services in connection with relocation of utility poles. While working on the project, ComEd smashed through an underground sewer in at least four separate locations. Subsequently, the local municipality, Village of Lombard, sued ComEd alleging that it acted negligently. Patrick’s contract with ComEd required that Patrick secure CGL insurance naming ComEd as an additional insured. Patrick complied, or at least thought it complied. ComEd sought coverage for the Village’s claim under Patrick’s insurance policy rather than its own. ComEd therefore tendered the lawsuit to Patrick on the basis that it was an additional insured on Patrick’s CGL policy issued by Old Republic. Old Republic denied coverage to ComEd citing the professional services exclusion and the fact that ComEd’s liability did not arise out of the negligence or fault of Patrick. Old Republic’s refusal to cover ComEd caused ComEd to file a breach of contract action against Patrick for its failure to provide the required insurance coverage. Patrick found itself in a very unenviable situation. First it needed to defend itself in the breach of contract action due to the coverage position taken by its insurer over which it likely had limited, if any control. It was then forced to sue its own insurer in an effort to establish coverage under its own policy for a problem that it did not cause. At the end of the day, Patrick wins its case against Old Republic. This, however, is a Pyrrhic victory for Patrick. On one hand Patrick is able to satisfy its contractual obligation to its client but on the other hand it will carry the burden of the loss under its own coverage for years. The Patrick court did a couple of things that seem inconsistent with common expectations. In the first instance it held that the professional services exclusion did not apply to ComEd since ComEd was not providing professional services. Curiously ComEd could claim coverage as additional insured for its role in the problem even though Patrick, as the named insured, could not. The court briefly addressed the issue of whether or not Patrick also needed to have some liability in order to trigger additional insured coverage and concluded that the "arising out of" language in the additional insured endorsement allowed ComEd to claim status as additional insured and that ComEd would be covered for its sole negligence.
Arising Out Of This court followed the decisions of courts in various jurisdictions that have held, "arising out of" creates coverage for additional insureds when only an indirect causal relationship exists between the service provided by the named insured and the liability of the additional insured. Some of these decisions determined that the phrase "arising out of" was either broad enough or sufficiently vague to cover the additional insured’s own negligence. In many cases the mere fact that the named insured was involved in the project was sufficient to trigger coverage for the additional insured. In response, ISO1changed the standard additional insured endorsement language in 2004. At that time ISO advised that the additional insured’s sole negligence was never intended to be covered under the LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
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standard additional insured endorsement (ISO CG 20 10). The language of this endorsement was substantially changed in an effort to narrow its application consistent with its original intent.
Additional Insured Endorsement ISO CG 20 10 The ISO CG 20 10 is the most widely used standard endorsement to create additional insured status under the CGL policy. The pre-2004 language is as follows: ■ Who is an insured is amended to include as an insured the person or organization shown in the Schedule, but only with respect to liability ARISING OUT OF YOUR ONGOING OPERATIONS (emphasis added). The 2004 version has the following changes: ■ Who is an Insured is amended to include as an additional insured the person(s) or organization(s) shown in the Schedule, but only with respect to liability for "bodily injury", "property damage" or "personal and advertising injury" CAUSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART"(emphasis added), by: 1. Your acts or omissions; or 2. The acts or omissions of those acting on your behalf The operative change was replacing the words "arising out of" with "caused in whole or in part". The effect of the 2004 revision has been characterized as the elimination of coverage for the additional insured due to its sole negligence.
It should be noted that once an edition has been changed prior versions are typically no longer available. However, for reasons that might seem obvious, clients of A/E firms want additional insured coverage under the old language. Despite the fact that the 2004 version corrects an error or misunderstanding, insurance specifications written in 2013 oftentimes continue to require the pre 2004 language. It is therefore not unusual to see an insurance requirement that reads something like, "Client shall be named as Additional Insured under CG 20 10 (85) or equivalent". This creates two problems. First, in practice, the pre 2004 endorsement language is very difficult, if not impossible, for many A/E firms to secure. Insurers understandably do not want to pick up the liability of others when the named insured is not at fault. In addition to owners, contractors oftentimes seek additional insured coverage under the A/E’s CGL policy. A contractor presents a far greater CGL exposure than an A/E. Consider as well the fact that the insurer typically has no information about the additional insured and is therefore not in a position to evaluate the added exposure. This creates a conundrum: If the A/E is unable to provide the requested coverage, it faces a potential breach of contract action like Patrick. If the A/E is successful in securing the required coverage however, it might pay the price for insuring its client or others for a problem that the A/E did not create. Thus the snare is set when the contract is executed. Those reviewing insurance requirements might either miss this subtle issue entirely or not understand the significance of the edition date. One must also not assume that the term "equivalent" satisfies the contract obligation if the policy contains the current version of the CG 20 10. Non-compliance might also arise in a more subtle context. One recently reviewed contract provides, "Designer shall add Owner and other such parties as is required under the Contract Documents to be named as additional insureds with respect to liability arising out of…" The drafters of this agreement use the "arising out of language" which, as indicated above, is no longer in line with current standard additional insured language. Even though a specific endorsement is not specified, the use of the current wording would likely not satisfy the above contract requirement opening up the possibility of a breach of contract action. The danger of course is amplified when one is faced with an additional insured requirement that includes multiple parties.
What to Do When reviewing and executing contracts, one must take care and pay particular attention to the additional insured requirements. If the contract requires pre-2004 wording, the A/E should attempt to have it changed to the current version. The pre-2004 language creates a difficult burden. Like Patrick, the A/E might find itself paying, albeit indirectly, for the damages arising out of the sole negligence of an additional insured. In addition, as stated above, it is very likely that any pre-2004 wording requirement is inconsistent with the current coverage provided to the A/E and it is very unlikely the A/E will be able to secure coverage to meet the requirement. 1 ISO is the Insurance Services Office which promulgates wordings and standards commonly used by the Insurance Industry.
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FIRMMANAGEMENT
Thriving in the New Norm: Strategies for Small Firm Success by Rena M. Klein, FAIA
Is your firm among the many that were hurt in the Great Recession? If your firm is now half the size that it was in 2008, you are not alone.
T
here is no doubt that the last five years have been hard. Many firms that specialized in one project type saw their market disappear overnight. Others that had built their firms on long standing relationships watched as their bread and butter projects were scooped up by new competition that would never have considered these projects before. Many have struggled to survive, often reduced down to the founder plus one or two. Most firm owners who had these experiences did not have faulty strategy or poor execution, and it is important to remember that management of a firm through the economic crisis was extremely difficult. Throughout the hard times, based on my observations, many firm owners have shown remarkable respect for their staff and have exhibited enviable resilience. As firms move into 2014 and a presumably improving economy, there is an opportunity to reboot and think expansively about future possibilities. The good news: technology and new ways of collaborating have made the flexibility of small firms an asset and is reducing the negatives of having a very small organization. The bad news: many firm owners are traumatized and don’t know where to go from here. They want to rebuild but are not sure how.
THE STATISTICS According to the AIA’s The Business of Architecture: 2012 Firm Survey Report, firms that managed to survive the recession have, for the most part, gotten smaller. Times have been tough and Figure 1 shows just how bad it has been. It seems as if the old yarn, "the bigger you are, the harder you fall" is apropos here. But almost everyone suffered. The fact that there are
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firm size
number of firms
1 2 to 4 5 to 9 10 to 19 20 to 49 50 to 99 100 or more total
2009 4,501 6,876 3,475 2,011 1,167 396 312 18,738
2012 4,636 6,450 3,115 1,727 1,018 348 237 17,531
percent share of all firms
percent share of all firms
2009 24% 37% 18% 11% 6% 2% 2%
2012 26% 37% 18% 10% 6% 2% 1%
Up from 24% in 2009
91% of firms under 20 9% of firms over 20 Down from 2% in 2009
Figure 1: Change in AIA member firm size since 2009
more solo practitioners today than in 2009 isn’t exactly great news for the profession, although the opportunities for the one-person shop are better than ever. Firms under five people fared better than the larger firms only because firms newly downsized replaced some of those that went under. IS THE RECOVERY REAL? According to the AIA’s Architecture Billing Index, the recovery seems to be in full swing. Anecdotally, it is spotty, depending upon where you are and the market in which you work. Figure 2 shows the typical business cycle as it applies to the construction industry. If rents in your area are beginning to increase and construction activity is picking up, you know that you are already in the BOOM recovery phase of a cycle. MARKET Figure 3 charts the overall EXCESS FUNDING OVERBUILDING business cycle in the U.S. INCREASED RENT CONCESSIONS CONSTRUCTION since 1990. When change SATURATED MARKET FUNDING AVAILABLE in GDP is +3-4% or TIGHTENING FUNDS INCREASED RENTS LESS above, we will be CONSTRUCTION REDUCED FUNDING RECOVERY experiencing good times. The boom market STABILIZED preceded the Great RENTS INCREASED RECESSION CONSTRUCTION Recession, interrupted MINIMAL CONSTRUCTION only by 911, was the longest expansionary Figure 2: Construction Business Cycle period in the modern era. This expansion was unusual in that it was not accompanied by inflation although salaries for architectural staff did take a long overdue jump. The extreme nature of the Great Recession and the long years that have followed are shown clearly in this graph. Percent change in GDP for 2012 was an anemic 2.2%, up only a bit from the 1.8% of 2011. Overall, at the time of this writing, the recovery is less than robust. Nevertheless, if you practice in a locale or market sector that is recovering, and even if you’re not, this is the perfect time to reboot and re-launch your practice.
Figure 3: Percent change in GDP from 1965 - 2011
There is an opportunity now to become thoughtful and strategic in how to grow your firm in a sustainable manner, in contrast to the opportunistic whirlwind common to boom times.
DESIGN YOUR PRACTICE By using a strategic planning process that is based on design thinking, firm owners can identify their aspirations and goals and help chart a path to achieving them. Basically, strategic business planning involves three main phases: ■ Assessment • Understanding core values and vision for the firm’s development • Examining existing conditions, including capabilities, market position, and financial health • Identifying goals with a long-term time horizon ■ Planning • Scenario plan (Financial) • Organizational development plan • Marketing plan • Operations plan, including knowledge management • Ownership transition plan • Action plan outlining specific steps with short term time-line ■ Implementation and Evaluation • Action plan continuous refinement and updating as actions are completed • Determine Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and track against milestones • Adjust action plans as conditions change Many firm owners find it useful to have the help of a management consultant in the strategic planning process. An outside and unbiased voice with information on best practices and industry trends can be invaluable in forming both pragmatic and inspired strategy. Look for a consultant familiar with small firm design practice. The key to the process is to use your abilities as a design thinker to approach the strategy for your firm. Look at the "design criteria" –what is important to you, how big a firm do you want, what market sectors are a match to your interests, etc. Be creative and pragmatic: look for new ways of doing things. Figure 4 illustrates the relationship between the phases of business planning and the phases of the building design process. Note that both building design and business planning are iterative, ending with evaluation that brings the process full circle back to assessment. Implementation without evaluation is similar to designing a building and never stepping inside the built structure to see what you think. Truth is, in business planning you don’t actually have a choice because fast changing and unpredictable conditions require constant evaluation and adjustment. Circumstances will force you to re-evaluate your goals, strategies and action plans annually, at a minimum. Design
Figure 4: Business Planning Parallels Building Design
of your firm is a continuous process in which you are always looking for what is working and what isn’t. What are not likely to change are your values and your vision, and you would be well advised to stay constant and loyal to these. A word about the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) which are needed to track progress toward your goals. What you measure becomes what is important, so choose carefully. Typical KPIs related to marketing might include: hit rate (percent of inquiries that become jobs); direct award rate (work acquired through referral or repeat clients - without competition); and the number of significant new relationships formed (ones that have good likelihood of leading to work). Key operational and financial indicators include overhead rate, budget vs. actual expenditures, project profitability and staff utilization rates.
PRACTICE YOUR DESIGN Although it may be tempting to throw away past strategy that seemingly led to downsizing and financial stress, it is not necessarily the prudent approach. It is important to remember that your firm’s pre-recession market position was likely built on your core competence, your relationship network, and your natural proclivities. The question now is how can you build on these to reboot your firm and position it to grow as the economy recovers? Instead of rejecting your past as failed, consider adopting a two-prong approach as you engage with the strategic planning process: 1. Use what you know and whom you know to get the kind of jobs you did before the recession. If the market you are in is still too competitive or still non-existent, look for related work in a market that is active. For example, no more affordable housing projects? Ask yourself, whom do you know who is building retirement communities or senior housing? Even if you have an aspiration to do different kinds of work, or think you should diversify, acquiring work that is familiar and you are good at can provide the basis for rebuilding. Once you have some bread and butter jobs, it will give you capacity to potentially move into different work. Or perhaps, it will make you appreciate your strengths and enable you to "own" who you are in the marketplace. Work you did before the recession is also the work you are most likely to get in the short-term. Leverage every relationship you have, especially former clients, and take someone to lunch at least once a week. 2. Expand your possibilities by participating in new trends in small firm practice. This may require building capacity, (continued on page 36)
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LEGALISSUES
Limitation-of-Liability Clauses Effective When Enforceable
by Shawn E. Goodman, Sabo & Zahn, Attorneys at Law
Limitation-of-liability clauses consist of contractual provisions which simply limit the extent of liability for which the design professional will be responsible in the event of any problems on the project related to the services provided by that design professional. The purpose of such a provision is straightforward: apportion the risk so that it bears a rough relationship to the benefits obtained by the respective parties from the project. The idea is that, while the design firm certainly obtains its own benefit, in the form of a fee, the architect’s client ultimately gets a much larger benefit, the profits received from the project, and therefore the risk to be borne by the architect should be proportioned so as not to be altogether out of whack when compared to the benefit received. Negotiating a limitation-of-liability clause in most, if not all, professional agreements should be a goal. It is true that not all clients will agree. However, many firms are asking for and getting limitation-of-liability clauses in their contracts. They have come to the realization, and are having some success convincing their clients, of the reasonableness of such agreements in attributing the level of responsibility to which an architect will be held if a problem arises. These clauses also serve to recognize, and are justifiable, considering that there are many circumstances in which, even though the designer has little or no fault, the designer nevertheless can be dragged into costly litigation. While not universally accepted by courts, a limitation-of-liability clause stands an excellent chance of being upheld if it is carefully, properly drafted and negotiated. A landmark limitation-of-liability case came down in California in 1991.1 The plaintiff in that case was a developer which sued the engineers who had designed, as part of a housing project, a man-made lake. When the liner of the lake failed, what followed was a suit for $5 million against the defendant engineering firm. The engineer put forward a clause which had been included in the contract limiting liability to the amount of the fee, $67,640. The trial court agreed and enforced that clause. The developer appealed, challenging the clause as supposedly not having been specifically agreed to or negotiated. However, the California appellate court upheld the trial court, and cited a letter of transmittal conveyed by the engineering firm along with its proposed contract as having provided the developer the opportunity to have reviewed the agreement and to have negotiated any aspect of it. Limitation-of-liability clauses have, over the last twenty years or so, come to gain ever-increasing acceptance by those courts which have reviewed them. Most reasonable, well-drafted such clauses, agreed to at arms length by two parties of relatively
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equal bargaining power, stand an excellent chance of being enforced if tested. By the same token, contract terms which are vague, or which call for unreasonably low limits that would come close to eliminating altogether a design professional’s liability, are far less likely to be endorsed by a reviewing court. A prominent example of a limitation-of-liability clause being invalidated arose in Oregon.2 In that case, the plaintiff had hired an engineering firm for a "limited visual review" of a house he was looking to buy. The entire contract consisted of one page, including four paragraphs, called for a $200 fee, and also included a one-sentence limitation-of-liability clause: "The liability of MEI [MacKenzie Engineering] and the liability of its employees are limited to the Contract Sum." The plaintiff signed off on the proposal, MacKenzie Engineering went to work, delivered a two-page report, and the plaintiff eventually went forward with the purchase of the home. Not long thereafter, problems were discovered including slanted floors and a broken water pipe, respectively. The plaintiff hired a different engineer, undertook repairing the house, and then turned around and sued MacKenzie Engineering for $340,000 based upon its failure to identify the problems. The defendant moved for, and obtained, summary judgment in its favor, the trial court noting that, considering the brevity and simplicity of the contract, a "reader would have to make a real effort for the limited liability clause to escape his or her attention." On appeal, the Oregon appellate court agreed. However, the Oregon Supreme Court reversed. In doing so, it struck down the limitation-of-liability clause as being excessively vague, and found that the amount specified, $200, was too low vis-a-vis the actual damages, $340,000. Much more recently, a federal appeals court, the Seventh Circuit, upheld an Indiana district court which had enforced a limitation-of-liability clause against a hotel developer.3 In that
full amount of the fee agreed upon pursuant to the contract. matter, the architect, the defendant, agreed to design for the That way, if the owner fails to pay some percentage of the owner a six-story hotel in exchange for a $70,000 fee. About a architect’s fee, the owner’s damages can be limited by that year after the hotel was built, defects began surfacing which were same percentage. so severe that the building actually, eventually had to be An alternative way of limiting liability is to tie the amount to demolished. The case went to trial, and while the owner the extent of insurance coverage. Such a clause, if done right, obtained a judgment in its favor, its damages were limited to ensures that the professional will not be exposed to personal $70,000, the contract price for the architectural services liability to pay any judgment. The following is an example of a provided, even though the owner had asked for some sixty times clause which does this: that amount. The case went up on appeal, and the Seventh Circuit, applying LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. Notwithstanding any other Indiana law, ruled that parties are free to contract, bargaining provision herein to the contrary, the Owner may recover from however they see fit. Because the architectural firm and the owner the Architect on account of any negligent act, error or omission were sophisticated business parties with equal bargaining stature, on the part of, or breach of any implied or express terms of the court enforced the contract as written and specifically enforced this Agreement by, the Architect, its agents, employees, the clause which limited the architect’s liability to $70,000. The partners, officers, directors or consultants, which arise or are in owner asserted that the limitation-of-liability clause effectively any way related to any services performed hereunder by any of insulated the architectural firm from liability for its own negligence, them, only that amount equal to the insurance proceeds then and that Indiana law mandated that such indemnity language be available from the Architect’s professional liability policy specifically, clearly spelled out in the contract terms. The appellate payable with respect thereto on the date any judgment is court disagreed, and distinguished indemnification from limitationentered, it being the intent of-liability clauses. The latter of the parties hereto that merely "serve to establish a the Architect’s total liability contractual ceiling" on damages, while the former “Limitation-of-liability clauses have, over the to Owner be capped by the proceeds from completely insures a party last twenty years or so, come to gain ever- available such insurance policy. against its own negligence. From the standpoint of While, with indemnity, the increasing acceptance by those courts which the design professional, contract must "clearly and have reviewed them.” every contract would contain unequivocally" set forth that a limitation-of-liability clause one party will have to pay if the owner would agree to for another’s negligence, the sharing of the potential liability for claims of faulty design. Of with limitation of liability, no such specific language is required. course, in the real world, owners may balk at such a concept. Still, SAMS stands strongly in favor of the enforcement of a there are projects in which this approach not only is fair, but should limitation-of-liability agreement signed off on by two parties be considered an absolute necessity. One concerns when the based upon those parties’ freedom to contract. Still, the architect offers to work for free, e.g., on behalf of a church, enforcement of any limitation-of-liability provision is dependent condominium association or other nonprofit organization. A upon the applicable laws of the particular state as well as the second is where the architect is working for a friend or relative underlying facts. either at no or minimal cost. Thirdly, and similarly, are those One common way of structuring a limitation-of-liability clause projects on which the architect performs services at greatly is to limit the exposure to a dollar amount, as was done in SAMS, reduced rates. Unfortunately, in all three of these types of either by setting forth that dollar amount, or by corresponding situations, it is often the case that no written contract at all is that amount to the fee for professional services. The following is entered into by the parties. However, the need for a well-drafted an example of such a clause: contract, one which will limit for good reason the architect’s liability exposure, should be considered no less necessary for the LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The Owner agrees, to the fullest architect who undertakes a project in which the fee to be earned extent permitted by law, to limit the liability of the Architect to is either limited or nonexistent. the Owner for any and all claims, losses, costs, expenses or Limitation-of-liability clauses can be used with any type of damages of any nature whatsoever, including reasonable owner-architect agreement, including standard industry forms. attorney’s fees and costs, and those of expert witnesses, from Architects should generally consider including such clauses, and any cause or causes so that the total aggregate liability of the insist on using them when it comes to certain projects. Architect to the Owner shall not exceed the Architect’s total fee received for services rendered on this Project. It is 1 intended that this limitation apply to any and all liability or Markborough v. Superior Court, 227 Cal. App. 3d 705 (Cal. Ct. App. 1991) causes of action however alleged or arising, unless specifically prohibited by law. 2 Estey v. Mackenzie Eng’g, 927 P.2d 86 (Or. 1996) Note that this language references to "the fullest extent permitted by law" and "unless specifically prohibited by law." This helps to adapt the provision so as to fit within any statespecific limits or prohibitions against such limitations on liability, and makes it more likely to be upheld. Note further that it also limits the liability to the amount received, as opposed to the
3
SAMS Hotel Group v. Environs, 716 F.3d 432 (7th Cir. 2013)
Shawn E. Goodman • SABO & ZAHN, LLC 401 North Michigan Ave. • Suite 2050 • Chicago, Illinois 60611 (312) 655-8620 • Fax: (312) 655-8622 Website: www.sabozahn.com • Email: sgoodman@sabozahn.com
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INSURANCEINFO
The Contractor Two-Step by Robert Stanton, CPCU, RPLU, ARM – Willis A&E
couple of months ago I attended a contractor-oriented workshop. One of the speakers was from an independent specification writing firm who declared that the quality of the Contract Documents prepared by the design community had been declining over the past several years. Given the fact I had been an Architects and Engineers Professional Practice Claims Handler for insurance companies who seemed to have to pay a fortune for contractor issues, my cockles were most definitely raised. To add insult to injury, in a previous presentation I had attended a presenter for the construction community had declared, "You wouldn’t believe how much we contractors have to pay for the mistakes of the architects and engineers." I had to be restrained when I tried to counter with, "And you wouldn’t believe the amount the designers have to pay for contractor gaffs too." Being a staunch supporter of the design community and believing this discussion was an excuse for the plethora of RFI’s and Change Orders contractors produce to document their delay claims when they fall behind on the construction schedule, I decided that this time I would not be silenced. I made a snide remark to the guy sitting next to me, who was an attorney I thought maintained neutrality when it came to the interaction between contractor and designer. Much to my surprise…he immediately agreed with the presenter. Discretion became the better part of valor and I held my tongue until my attorney friend and I could discuss the matter more fully. Before the next speaker could present his materials, my attorney friend explained to me the documents were indeed declining in quality, and that area in which the Contract Documents are creating problems relates predominantly to the specifications. Given that his practice included defending designers, I figured it was time to listen. He explained, "The specification writers for a large number of firms were the first employees let go by design firms when the market turned bad in an effort to save expenses. Spec writers are usually the more experienced designers in the firms who garner a higher salary." When I challenged him about the RFI and Change Order discussion which had just taken place he pointed out, "It’s in the specifications that most contractors find the designers vulnerable. Lack of attention to detail in the specifications allow the contractors to generate the RFI’s and Change Orders that are the basis of most of the delay claims against the designers. Whether the design community wishes to believe it or not, the contractors’ arguments are gaining validity in recent years. The details are lacking." I added, "So you’re telling me this is how the contractors get traction when they begin the RFI and Change Order dance, which I called the "Contractor Two-Step." He replied, "Yes, it is." I walked away from the discussion realizing that perhaps it does take two to tango. Walking away from the discussion, it was clear there was more checking to do. I had recently done an in-house presentation for one of my clients. In the past, the principal of the firm asked if
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my presentation could address the issues and concerns relative to writing specifications as part of the Contract Documents, stating, "Sometimes there is a disconnect between the designers and spec writers at times, which drives my spec writer right up the wall." With the permission of the principal, I contacted the spec writer to get some input. You can imagine my surprise when the firm’s chief spec writer told me he absolutely agreed with the spec writer/speaker that the quality of the Contract Documents being generated by the design community were declining, and concurred with the idea that the area in which the decline is mostly noted (and where contractor’s take the most advantage) is in the area of specification writing. "A lot of the time I receive documents from other design firms," he stated, "and it’s clear the specifications were prepared by a junior level associate in the firm who has little or no experience in specification writing. Specification writing should be done by the more senior members of the staff." His point on this dovetailed with the discussion with my attorney friend. However, he added more to the argument. Probing further, the spec writer identified two main reasons why the specifications in Contract Documents were creating the problems. First, as has already been mentioned, the lack of seasoned and experienced specification writers in the firm leaves the duty of specification writing to the junior members of the firm who do not have enough experience to determine things like whether "an adhesive will actually work in bonding two different materials together." He went on further to indicate that even if the firm had a seasoned specification on staff, the specification writing has become "secondary to the design function, often the last consideration when it comes to budgeting for professional services." In many cases, only a small portion of the overall service fee and design scheduleare allocated for the performance of specification writing and review. He went on to say spec writers are not being given enough time to do an adequate job in the preparation of the specifications. This results in things being missed, and given the fact that specifications often take precedence in the interpretation of the design intent; it seems strange that such a vital function would be relegated to a secondary role in the design process. The bottom line of this discussion is that if a design firm is encountering a series of delay claims, perhaps it is time to step back and review their own procedures relative to time and fee allocation for specification writing. If the firm does not have a designated specification writer, there are firms out there which do nothing but specification writing. Whether if handled in-house or out-services, it appears the design community needs to focus more attention on specification writing. Willis A&E is "Different by Design". A specialty unit of Willis (NYSE:WSH), Willis A&E is the leading broker specialized in providing risk management and insurance solutions to Architects and Engineers.
2013 Design Award Program On September 20th, five well-respected architects studied every entry and selected the winning projects for the 2013 ALA Design Award Program. Out of 96 entries, 23 projects were awarded an Award of Merit, 13 projects were awarded a Silver Medal, and 5 projects a Gold Medal, with the top honor being the Don Erickson Presidential Award. Projects were entered in eight categories: Residential I, Residential II, Commercial/Industrial, Interior Architecture, Institutional, Religious, Renovation and Unbuilt Design. Each entry was judged on its own merit based on: Program Solution, Site and Space Planning, Overall Design Solution and Construction System and Details. LeRoy B. Herbst III, FALA of L.B. Herbst & Associates served as jury chairperson. Rich Barnes, ALA of Barnes Architects, Ltd. and Matthew Kramer, ALA of Matthew Kramer Architects were assistant chairpersons.
ALA would like to thank our Design Award Banquet Sponsors: • Andersen Windows • IMAGINiT Technologies • Marvin Windows and Doors • Moen/Creative Specialties Int’l
ALA wishes to thank the following judges for their hours of volunteer time and their dedication to the program and profession. Mike Breclaw, ALA, AIA, LEED AP Mike Breclaw, AIA, LEED AP is a Principal and Director of Design with OKW Architects. With OKW, Mike has led the design of several large and complex mixed-use projects, including the Uptown project in Park Ridge, and the New City development at Clybourn and Halsted in Chicago. Prior to OKW, at GEC Design Group and Epstein, Mike led design efforts of two large facilities for Motorola in Libertyville and Harvard Illinois. Mike began his architectural career in Chicago with Carol Ross Barney, and SOM. Mike received his under-graduate degree in English from Wabash College and a Masters in Architecture from Princeton University.
Stephen Cavanaugh ALA, LEED AP Stephen Cavanaugh ALA, LEED AP is a Principal and Regional Design Leader with DLR Group. Steve earned his degree from the University of Illinois School of Architecture in 1985, and has practiced with renowned design firms, including 10 years with Helmut Jahn. Steve’s passion for creative design and environmental sensitivity is driven by his understanding of building systems and contextual issues. His hands-on approach and attention to detail has resulted in many award winning designs, often within the constraints of conservative budgets and aggressive schedules. Steve recently designed the Patterson Technology Center, recipient of the 2012 ALA Don Erickson Presidential Award.
Cheryl A. Ciecko, ALA, AIA, LEED AP Cheryl A. Ciecko, ALA, AIA, LEED AP is a licensed architect specializing in sustainable design issues, building science and innovative uses of wood materials. She is President of CCG + Architects, Inc. and Midwest Region Director for WoodWorks, an initiative of the Wood Products Council. A member of the Illinois Board of Directors for ALA, Cheryl is a LEED AP as well as a Green Globes Professional (GGP) and has presented on wood and sustainable design issues around the United States. Cheryl has been involved in a wide variety of project types. She has a B.S. in Architecture from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, and a Masters of Architecture degree from the University of Minnesota-Minneapolis.
Bob Davidson, FALA, AIA, LEED AP Bob Davidson, FALA, AIA, LEED AP is Chief Architect for The Austin Company in Cleveland, Ohio. As Director of Design Science & Technology, he is responsible for more complex projects in the Food, Pharmaceutical, Aviation and Nuclear type facilities. He holds licenses in over 30 states and has spent a considerable amount time in Puerto Rico, Santa Domingo and the UK. Bob is past president of ALA Illinois and served as Program Chairman for many years where he organized hundreds of CEU seminars for ALA membership. Having recently moved to NE Ohio, he hopes to expand ALA membership in Cleveland.
Keelan Kaiser, AIA, LEED AP BD+C Keelan Kaiser, AIA, LEED AP BD+C is an architect and educator. He practices with Serena Sturm Architects in Chicago and is a Professor of Architecture and Chair of the Department of Architecture at Judson University. He specializes in education and higher education design as well as high performance building design.
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Photo: Cameron Campbell
Don Erickson Presidential Award Giovannetti Community Shelter, Urbandale, IA Category: Commercial Firm: ASK Studio, Brent Schipper, ALA, Kurtis Wolgast Contractor: Rochon Corporation The project is a community shelter designed to meet FEMA safe room requirements. The architectural solution is a transparent building sitting on the knoll of the park, connecting all of the park’s elements at the locus called “shelter”.
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Photo: Timothy Hursley
Gold Award ASK Studio, Des Moines, IA Category: Interior Architecture Firm: ASK Studio, Michael Kastner, Brent Schipper, ALA Contractor: Munro Construction Company The Studio is a representation of our abilities . . . and the paradigms and processes that we embrace . . . and a place for coffee . . . highly energy efficient with all LED lighting. There are no offices, no rooms with doors except for the toilets. It’s that simple.
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Photo: Christopher Barrett
Gold Award Galewood School, Chicago, IL Category: Institutional Firm: UrbanWorks, Ltd. Contractor: FH Paschen A three-story concrete structure punctuated by a soaring glass and wood panel-clad multi-use space creates a vibrant, visually appealing school identity which reflects the strong community-based vision for aspiring achievement within the Hispanic community.
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Photo: John Faier
Gold Award John C. Dunham Pavilion at Aurora RIverEdge Park, Aurora, IL Category: Institutional Firm: Muller & Muller, Ltd., David Steele Contractor: R.C.Wegman Construction This project is the first phase of the new RiverEdge Park, located on the banks of the Fox River. The project consists of park space and landscape features surrounding a new outdoor music pavilion and its support buildings. The buildings are arranged to embrace the riverside location, provide high quality sightlines and to shape and control the sound and acoustics of the venue.
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Photo: Tricia Shay Photography
Gold Award Midvale Courtyard House, Madison, WI Category: Renovation Firm: Bruns Architecture, Stephen Bruns, ALA Balancing the introverted nature of a courtyard with the bold personality of an extrovert all while managing matters of privacy, the renovation and addition of Midvale Courtyard House pierces and stretches solid forms to create connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
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Photo: Dave Burk, Hedrich Blessing and Christopher Barrett Photographer
Gold Award New Faith Baptist Church International Worship Center, Matteson, IL Category: Religious Firm: Harding Partners, Paul Harding, FAIA, ALA Contractor: Powers and Sons The new Worship Center composes structure, transparency and light to create an ethereal space for a growing congregation. The 2,300-seat, fan-shaped sanctuary is configured to draw congregants close to the platform and choir reinforcing the sense of community.
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Silver Award Cathedral of Saint Paul Organ Case, St. Paul, MN Category: Interior Architecture Firm: Duncan G. Stroik Architect, LLC, Duncan Stroik, ALA, Forest Walton Contractor: JE Dunn Construction The Cathedral of Saint Paul, by French architect Emmanuel Louis Masqueray, never had an organ case fitting for its grand interior. The new organ case, with hand carved architecture and details in walnut, reflects the sophisticated “modern French” classicism of the cathedral. Photo: Liam Flahive, Tim Schindler, Duncan Stroik
Silver Award Cedar Falls Public Works Complex, Cedar Falls, IA Category: Commercial Firm: INVISION Architecture; Brad Leeper, Jeff Oltmann, Tim Turnis Contractor: Cardinal Construction The design team developed a concept to consolidate multiple departments into a single facility, improving workflow and efficiency for the city of Cedar Falls. The project is designed to obtain LEED Silver certification and employs geothermal heating and cooling strategies. Photo: Cameron Campbell
Silver Award Country Club Hills Wellness Center Chicago, IL Category: Residential 2 Firm: Harley Ellis Devereaux, Susan King, FAIA, LEED AP Contractor: Walsh Construction The Country Club Hills Wellness Center by Harley Ellis Devereaux rises on the prairie as the anchor of a 17 acre mixed-use municipal campus in Chicago, Illinois. The clean line of the Center establishes the language and context for the future buildings on the site.
Photo: Anthony May
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Silver Award CVS Caremark Advanced Technology Pharmacy, Mt. Prospect, IL Category: Interior Architecture Firm: Heitman Architects Incorporated Contractor: Skender Construction The CVS Caremark ATP (Advanced Technology Pharmacy) repurposed a typical 170,000 squarefoot speculative industrial building, which had been sitting on the market vacant for 3 years, into this flagship CVS mail order fulfillment pharmacy.
Photo: Patsy McEnroe Photography
Silver Award First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, Arlington Heights, IL Category: Renovation Firm: Jaeger, Nickola, Kuhlman & Associates, Ltd. Contractor: Efraim Carlson & Son, Inc. This church renovation included the demolition of an existing balcony structure to allow a 180° rotation of the sanctuary and a new curvilinear chancel platform with integral choir seating, A/V screens, and full view of the existing stained glass window-wall.
Photo: Monika E. Benitez
Silver Award Hillshire Brands Corporate Headquarters Redesign & Redevelopment, Chicago IL Category: Renovation Firm: Proteus Group LLC Contractor: Leopardo Companies, Inc. With the understanding that the building needed to be occupied in 12 months, Proteus Group was able to deliver an unprecedented schedule of requirements; through due diligence, design, permitting, demolition, and core/shell construction.
Photo: kimitre photography, Robert R. Gigliotti, Jacob Clary
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Silver Award Livingston County Courthouse Interior Renovation, Pontiac, IL Category: Renovation Firm: Dewberry Architects Inc. Contractor: Frederick Quinn Corporation Built in 1875, this Second Empire style courthouse is the centerpiece of Pontiac and the pride of Livingston County. In the 1970s, the original courtroom was divided into three smaller ones along with other insensitive interior alternations. Now, the restored courtroom serves as the County Board Room after reclaiming its former beauty.
Photo: Mariuz Mizera / McShane Fleming Studio
Silver Award INVISION Waterloo, Waterloo, IA Category: Interior Architecture Firm: INVISION Architecture Contractor: Cardinal Construction This project renovated a street-front building. Designing with the purpose of creating a modern space with a nod to history, many of the discovered elements were left uncovered. The result contributes to a feeling of modern elegance.
Photo: Cameron Campbell
Silver Award Terry Trueblood Lodge, Iowa City, IA Category: Commercial Firm: ASK Studio, Michael Kastner, Amber von Arb Contractor: Tricon Construction Group Located on the edge of a placid lake, the lodge provides a scenic indoor space for the community to hold large gatherings and business functions. Its language is intended to be familiar, with common materials harmonious to the natural setting.
Photo: Cameron Campbell
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Silver Award The Glass Cube, Skokie, IL Category: Commercial Firm: JGMA, Juan Moreno, ALA, Jason Nuttelman, Cosmin Vrajitoru, David Ruffing and Linda Ch´avez Contractor: Graycor Construction, Inc. The Glass Cube is located at Westfield Old Orchard Mall in Skokie, Illinois. It stands out as a modern stand alone building enhancing the landscape of the mall. The venue will provide a climate-controlled area for signature events, special community performances, interactive displays and live entertainment. Photo: JGMA
Silver Award Tioga School, Bensenville, IL Category: Institutional Firm: STR Partners Contractor: Gilbane Building Company Designed to facilitate learning beyond the classrooms, this elementary school addition has multiple informal and formal learning environments. Students wirelessly connect with each other and the world in their grade level Living Room, a shared Contemplation Bridge, an Innovation Lab, Learning Gardens and a Learning Center. Photo: Steve Hall, Hedrich Blessing
Silver Award White Oak Library District Romeoville Branch Renovation, Romeoville, IL Category: Renovation Firm: Dewberry Architects Inc., Brian Meade, ALA Contractor: The Lombard Company The White Oak Library District wanted to create a community knowledge hub which provided lifelong learning resources and opportunities to all its patrons. Dewberry developed improvements to an existing 47,000 square foot two level building that would succeed in enhancing patron experience, streamlining staff activities, and become a vessel of knowledge. Photo: Mariuz Mizera
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Merit Award Bieniek Residence, Napervillle, IL Category: Residential 1 Firm: JGMA, Juan Moreno, ALA Jason Nuttelman, Cosmin Vrajitoru, Michael Cady, David Ruffing, Linda Chavez Contractor: Muellner Construction, Inc. Sited in an atypical suburban lot in the heart of Naperville IL, the Bieniek Residence ascends from the ground like the surrounding vegetation. Taking advantage of its isolation from neighboring houses, serene views are framed to overlook the site’s preserved wetlands and mature foliage.
Photo: JGMA
Merit Award City Colleges of Chicago - Wright College Math Tutoring & Electronics Labs, Chicago, IL Category: Institutional Firm: RADA Architects Ltd., Rada Doytcheva, Ph.D, AIA, ALA, LEED AP BD+C Contractor: Friedler Construction The Labs for Math and Electronics at Wright College represent collaborative learning studios within a technology intensive and stimulating “Nature-Indoor” environment. The seating arrangements provide a variety of teaching groups and settings, allowing flexible and multipurpose use of the spaces. Photo: Steinkamp Photography, RADA Architects
Merit Award Clariant Colorworks Lab, West Chicago, IL Category: Interior Architecture Firm: The Jenkins Group, David Olsen, Kevin Bochenek Contractor: JC Harris and Sons, Inc. The Jenkins Group utilized large open ceilings, daylighting, modern materials and splashes of bold color to create the Clariant ColorWorks™ Lab, a resource center where brand managers can develop high-impact color concepts for the early stages of product development.
Photo: The Jenkins Group
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Merit Award Guest House, Lakeside, MI Category: Residential 1 Firm: SMNG-A Architects, Jack Murchie, AIA Contractor: Jack Murchie The 448 sf guest house provides private space for guests. The guest house, inspired by an Anselm Kiefer chalk drawing, is rotated 45 degrees over its foundation, creating cantilevered corners floating just above the ground. Photo: Tom Rossiter
Merit Award J&J Arnaco Monroe Building Rehabilitation, Chicago, IL Category: Renovation Firm: Holabird & Root LLC Contractor: Bulley & Andrews, LLC Holabird & Root's meticulous restoration and rehabilitation of the historic Monroe Building returned the building to its original prominence as a historic architectural gem, while integrating modern infrastructure and amenities typical to new office buildings in the city center. Photo: Mark Ballogg Photography, Noel Davis
Merit Award Kelly Scott Madison, Chicago, IL Category: Interior Architecture Firm: Harley Ellis Devereaux Leonora Georgeoglou, Enrique Suarez, ALA Contractor: Interior Construction Group What was once a private office workplace is now an open office that effectively communicates the energy and creativity of Kelly Scott Madison’s advertising business which allows them to “set” the perfect stage when entertaining clients. Photo: Christopher Barrett
Merit Award Koch Facial Plastic Surgery, West Des Moines, IA Category: Commercial Firm: INVISION Architecture; Mark Nevenhoven, ALA, Cheung Chan, Jason DeVries Contractor: Henning Construction The design for this plastic surgery clinic reorganized the sequence and proportions of an outdated material palette to provide a modernized exterior aesthetic. Updated materials help distinguish the building from its surrounding context. Photo: Cameron Campbell
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Merit Award Mazak Midwest Technology Center Renovation, Itasca, IL Category: Renovation Firm: Heitman Architects Incorporated Contractor: Paul Hemmer Companies Responding to the continuous upswing in US manufacturing, Mazak, a global supplier of advanced manufacturing equipment took a bold step to expand and completely update their existing regional offices and technology showroom. Photo: © 2012 balloggphoto.com
Merit Award Mercy Children's Hospital Renovation, Des Moines, IA Category: Institutional Firm: INVISION Architecture; Mark Nevenhoven, ALA, Jill Goedken, Tonia Householder Contractor: Graham Construction The INVISION team worked with Perkins+Will to transform the first phase of Mercy Medical Center Pediatrics north tower and E-Zone from a somber and dated treatment facility to a light-filled, modern, healing environment. Photo: Cameron Campbell
Merit Award Private Residence, New Buffalo, MI Category: Residential 1 Firm: Fraerman Associates Architecture, Inc. James Fraerman, ALA Contractor: Highgate Builders A weekend retreat is distinguished by light-filled, open living areas which flow effortlessly into one another. To take advantage of the site, the rear of the house is punctuated by two large curving bays which capture sweeping views of Lake Michigan. Photo: Eric Hausman Photography
Merit Award Ragdale House Restoration, Lake Forest, IL Category: Renovation Firm: Johnson Lasky Architects Walker Johnson, FAIA, ALA Contractor: Bulley & Andrews, LLC Work included major structural corrections, replacement of electric, plumbing, sprinkler, and mechanical / geothermal systems, restoration of exterior stucco, trim, wood windows, and treatment of historic interiors, including woodwork, plaster, and period wallpapers, which were recreated for the project. Photo: Hendrich Blessing
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Merit Award Razorfish, Chicago, IL Category: Interior Architecture Firm: NELSON, William Hollander, AIA, ALA, LEED AP BD+C Contractor: Clune Construction Creating greater community and interoffice collaboration was the goal of Razorfish Chicago. The concept features a “downtown” district with large avenues of circulation that connect the neighborhoods of bordering office areas. The overall feel is an open and united space that gives employees a sense of place and purpose. Photo: Jamie Padgett
Merit Award Renaissance Place, Milwaukee, WI Category: Renovation Firm: Korb Tredo Architects Contractor: Catalyst Construction The design of the new building envelope highlights and illuminates the 100 foot long, 10 foot deep, clear span, existing wooden trusses. The original brick facade on the north was deemed salvageable and restored with new fenestration. Photo: Korb Tredo Architects
Merit Award Salvation Army College for Officer Training Playground, Chicago, IL Category: Institutional Firm: Harding Partners, Paul A. Harding, FAIA
Contractor: W. B. Olson The new playground at the Salvation Army’s College for Officer Training brings a playful oasis to the congested urban site. Varied textures, colors, fragrances, and materials support passive and active recreation in a way that stimulates multiple senses beyond the oversimplified imagery typically found in children’s spaces. Photo: Dave Burk, Hedrich Blessing and Christopher Barrett Photographer
Merit Award Schaumburg Township District Library Teen Place, Schaumburg, IL Category: Renovation Firm: Dewberry Architects Inc., Eddie Davis, Denelle Wrightson Contractor: FBG Corporation Schaumburg Township Main Library wanted the most technologically advanced, State-of-the-art Teen Space, with built-in flexibility. The idea of a Teen Place, where teens could relax, study, and socialize, was the result of a brainstorming session with the teen focus groups. Photo: Mariuz Mizera
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Merit Award The Armitage Collection, Chicago, IL Category: Residential 2 Firm: Hanna Architects, John Hanna, ALA, Tomasz Sokolowski Contractor: BMUK Enterprise, Inc. The Armitage Collection is a 9 unit project incorporating stucco wood & bronze into a contemporary façade to complete a warm, clean lined friendly building. The shadow box interpreted though the use of these traditional materials highlight the building and its' outdoor spaces. Photo: John Hanna
Merit Award The Hermitage Block, Chicago, IL Category: Residential 2 Firm: Hanna Architects, John Hanna, ALA, Tomasz Sokolowski Contractor: Phoenix Builders The Hermitage block is a 15 dwelling unit Chicago urban infill project turning the corner. Protruding balcony boxes use glass, metal panels & colorful wood ornament to pull together 5 separate buildings into one colorfully coordinated complex.
Photo: John Hanna
Merit Award UIC Soccer Stadium, Chicago, IL Category: Unbuilt Firm: JGMA, Juan Moreno, ALA Jason Nuttelman, John Rausch, Dan Spore, Jose Garcia The new UIC Flames Soccer Stadium relocates the spectator area and press booth to the west side of the field, providing shade for spectators as well as panoramic views of downtown Chicago.
Merit Award University of Illinois - Chicago, Douglas Hall, Chicago, IL Category: Institutional Firm: The Architects Enterprise, Ltd & Harley Ellis Devereaux in collaboration, Jack Bullo, AIA, LEED AP; Architect of Record - The Architects Enterprise, Ltd. Contractor: Barton Malow The original building envelope of concrete and glazing infill was replaced with curtain wall, providing exceptional light and views. This renovation also provides interactive, flexible learning spaces for students. Photo: Anthony May
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Merit Award University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign - Lincoln Hall, Champaign-Urbana Category: Renovation Firm: Cannon Design: Architect of Record and Design Bailey Edward: Associate Architect Contractor: Williams Brothers Construction, Inc.
Photo: Wayne Cable Photography
The design of Lincoln Hall modernizes a beloved historic structure by providing flexible classrooms, informal collaboration spaces and enhanced offices while overhauling building systems. As home to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Lincoln Hall has been a classroom setting for nearly every U of I student.
Merit Award W.A. Johnson School, Bensenville, IL Category: Institutional Firm: STR Partners Contractor: Gilbane Building Company A modern and bright school embodying 21st Century learning principals throughout. White brick facades contrast with colored glass windows. This theme is continued throughout the interior. Shared spaces, such as the light filled learning center and cafeteria, are the connecting anchor for the classroom wings. Photo: Steve Hall, Hedrich Blessing
Merit Award Wayne State University Chemistry Building, Detroit, MI Category: Renovation Firm: Harley Ellis Devereaux, Sam Bayne, FAIA, LEED AP Contractor: DeMaria Building Co. Inc. Wayne State University commissioned Harley Ellis Devereaux for design services to create an identifiable “front door” for their Chemistry building which serves as a gateway onto campus. Photo: Justin Maconochie
Merit Award ZenithOptimedia, Chicago, IL Category: Interior Architecture Firm: NELSON, William Hollander, AIA, ALA, LEED AP BD+C Contractor: Clune Construction ZenithOptimedia, an advertising firm based in London, commissioned NELSON to design their new Chicago headquarters. All private offices are located inboard off the window walls to provide natural light and views to the Chicago skyline for all users. Two “Idea Avenues” populated with collaboration and community spaces connect the workspaces of the office and allow for project teams to work together.
Photo: Jamie Padgett
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ALA Welcomes New Members - Winter 2013 Professional Members Mr. Timothy Artman, ALA Ms. Elizabeth Ballman, ALA Mr. Michael Breclaw, ALA Mr. Michael Cady, ALA Mr. Joseph Carroll, ALA Ms. Tammis Donaldson, ALA Mrs. Sandra Friedman ,ALA Mr. James Gooden, ALA Mr. Sebastian Jaromin, ALA Mr. Kirk Jiannacopoulos, ALA Mr. Dennis Kimme, ALA Mr. Mark Nevenhoven, ALA Ms. Janice Ninan, ALA Mr. Jason Nuttelman, ALA Mr. Robert Rowe, ALA Mr. Michael Scott, ALA Mr. Joseph Simeo, ALA Mr. James Smith, ALA
Arlington Heights, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Royal Oak, MI Glenview, IL Marion, IL Orland Park ,IL Madison, WI Champaign, IL Des Moines, IA Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Whitefish Bay, WI Marietta, OH Chicago, IL Crown Point, IN
Mr. Dominick Tringali, ALA Mr. Augie Vega, ALA Ms. Carissa Wendt, ALA
Auburn Hills, MI Menomonee Falls, WI Hoffman Estates, IL
Senior Members Mr. Richard Fleischman, ALA Mr. Michael Medina, ALA
Cleveland, OH St. Paul, MN
Affiliate Members Mr. Kent Brown Mr. Greg Huntley Mr. John Potts
Graphisoft Shaw Contract Group World Dryer
Associate Members Mr. Griffen Herne Mr. Ivan Tomic
Barrington, IL Carpentersville, IL
New Graduate Mr. Alexander Petrakos
Burr Ridge, IL
FIRMMANAGEMENT (continued from page 13)
learning new skills, or partnering with those that have complementary experience. Consider alternative project delivery options, such as joint ventures and architect-led design build. There are also various new technical specialties needed in the marketplace, everything from BIM coordination to net-zero energy consulting. Most importantly, consider your firms place in the current trend toward specialization – individuals and firms becoming experts in a narrow area of knowledge, technology, or design. Much is driving this trend - the complexity of the building process, the value of advanced knowledge or talent in the marketplace, and the power of a simple branding message. Small firms who cultivate a specialty may have the opportunity to become team members on large projects and work internationally if they are so inclined. As independent operators who contract on a project-to-project basis, expert specialists can have more control of their workload and their overhead. Alternatively, there are other specialists who perfect efficient delivery of routine projects, which can lead to a lower stress and more lucrative practice. Intuitively, specialization seems at odds with the common sense notion that diversification is needed to weather an
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LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
economic downturn. Despite the inherent paradox, it’s likely you will need both specialization and diversification. In the new normal, your firm must be better than anyone else around in some aspect of practice, which requires some specialization. At the same time, consider how you might diversify by adding flexibility to your project delivery methods, by integrating new technology, and by expanding your network of relationships. Diversity can also come by leveraging core competence, residential design for example, to pursue closely related project types.
THE TIME IS NOW For firm owners who are discouraged and just plain worn-out by the struggle of the last few years, this is the time for action. If your area or market segment is not yet experiencing recovery, consider using this time to acquire new knowledge and capacity. Whether that means becoming an expert in building envelope design or learning advanced BIM software, think about what knowledge you need to compete in the 21st century. If you are considering new partnerships as a way to expand your possibilities, don’t delay. Try out submitting a joint venture proposal with a prospective partner and test the power of combining your complementary abilities. You may find collaboration is a way to expand your reach, be it geographically or in project size. Although the generally slow recovery is difficult for many, the silver lining is the time it provides for crafting thoughtful business strategy. Boom times often demand "fast-track" development of a firm and the result is often not sustainable in the long term. The time is now for crafting a way forward to a lasting reinvigorated firm. About the Author Rena M. Klein, FAIA is the author of The Architect's Guide to Small Firm Management (Wiley, 2010) and principal of RM Klein Consulting, a firm that specializes in helping small firm owners run their firms better
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ECONOMICOUTLOOK
Economic Update by Bernard Markstein, Ph.D., U.S. Chief Economist, Reed Construction Data Every time the United States economy appears to be improving, another stumbling block arises. Sadly, many of these impediments are created right here in the USA. The latest hurdle, the failure of Congress to pass a budget, resulted in the partial shutdown of the federal government from October 1 through October 16. The shutdown disrupted economic growth in the real (inflation adjusted) gross domestic product (GDP), which had risen from first quarter’s 1.1% at a seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) to second quarter’s 2.5% and third quarter’s 2.8%. The last figure is a first estimate that will be revised as more data come in. Most reputable sources estimate that the shutdown reduced fourth quarter real GDP growth about 0.5%. Some, but not all, of this loss will be recaptured in the first quarter of 2014. Some concerns about the then-looming shutdown of the government may have shown up in what at first glance appears to be a strong reading for the third quarter. Most notable in that GDP number is the jump in inventories, which added 0.8% to growth. The jump appears to be unintended inventory accumulation, as consumers reacting to economic uncertainty throttled back their purchases below expectations. Consequently, companies will lower their output in the fourth quarter as they seek to bring their inventories back in line with sales. In line with this view is the slowdown in consumer spending. Real personal consumption expenditures growth slipped from 2.3% in the first quarter to 1.8% in the second quarter to 1.5% in the third quarter. The shutdown ended when Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) to fund government operations. The CR simply extended last year’s budget through January 15, leaving in place the sequester (the across the board reduction in spending for much of the government). The legislation also lifted the debt ceiling, allowing the government to continue to borrow until early February by most estimates, at which time the debt ceiling would prevent borrowing and spending for the government - except to the extent that new revenues flow into government coffers. The partial shutdown of the federal government did not save money: it cost money. Federal employees received back pay for the time they were furloughed. During the shutdown, some taxes and fees were not collected and will not be collected retroactively. The shutdown proved disruptive to several government construction projects—stopping or delaying them and driving up costs. There was spillover to private construction and the private economy as uncertainty about the future economic climate (yet to be fully resolved) resulted in many businesses delaying hiring and investment. Many government contracts were delayed or put on hold, forcing the contracted private firms to furlough or lay off employees. Unlike furloughed government workers, they will not receive back pay. Congress and the administration have until January 15 to pass a budget for this fiscal year or to pass another CR—a
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1,400
Construction Spending and its Components $ Billions History
1,300
Forecast
1,200 1,100 1,000 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0
02
03
04
Residential
05
06
07
08
09
Nonresidential Building
10
11
12
13
14
15
Heavy Construction
Source: History - U.S. Census Bureau; Forecast - Reed Construction Data
poor solution, but better than a shutdown. It is not clear what the outcome will be. Failure to pass a budget or CR would mean another partial shutdown, although most pundits believe that is unlikely. Failure to raise the debt ceiling would be an even bigger threat to the economy and the nation. The impact of hitting the debt ceiling would be widespread, meaning more government operations would be affected. The result would be the delay of numerous payments, including payments for Social Security and Medicare, federal payrolls, contractors, tax refunds, and debt payments (a technical default of U.S. government debt). The sometimes struggling economy has produced varied employment reports—some good and some bad. Non-farm seasonally adjusted (SA) payroll employment increased by 204,000 jobs in October, a reasonably good, but somewhat questionable number because of the disruption in data collection due to the government shutdown. Employment gains averaged 174,000 jobs per month from July through October, down from the average gain of 195,000 jobs per month for the first half of the year. SA construction employment showed some life recently, increasing by 11,000 jobs in October after rising by 18,000 jobs in September. From January through October, the economy added 123,000 construction jobs. The not seasonally adjusted (NSA) construction unemployment rate for October was 9.0%, down from 11.4% in October 2012. Even as the economy faces several impediments, numerous positive forces are propelling economic growth. Included are historically low interest rates, continuing improvement in the housing market, which has resulted in rising home prices in much of the country, the improved consumer balance sheet (aided by rising home values) and the need for many companies to increase employment and investment in plant and equipment to meet
rising demand. The Federal Reserve has indicated it will continue with its $85 billion per month purchase of long-term assets through the end of the year. Tapering (i.e., reductions in the monthly purchase program) is unlikely to begin before March and may not start until summer. For most of this year, nonresidential construction has struggled. Seasonally adjusted current dollar (not inflation adjusted) nonresidential building construction spending increased from second quarter 2011 through third quarter 2012. For the next three quarters, nonresidential construction spending fell. From second quarter 2012 to second quarter 2013, nonresidential construction spending declined 2.6%. The decline is due to a lack of confidence in future economic growth and, consequently, many businesses putting their expansion plans on hold. There was a bit of light at the end of the tunnel with a 3.0% increase in July. Meanwhile, spending held steady in August. Heavy non-building (civil) engineering construction spending began to show signs of life starting in second quarter 2010, mainly due to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The real recovery in spending began in second quarter 2011 and continued through fourth quarter 2012. As of August, heavy engineering spending has increased for six consecutive months. Some state and local governments are beginning to consider new infrastructure projects and are reviving old projects put on hold during the recession. Thus, heavy engineering construction spending will improve in 2014 and 2015. The Reed forecast is for total construction spending to increase
5% this year, with nonresidential construction spending decreasing 2%, heavy engineering decreasing 3%, and residential increasing 18%. For 2014, the Reed forecast is for total construction spending to rise 7%, nonresidential construction spending to rise 4%, heavy engineering to rise 6%, and residential to rise 11%. The outlook for 2015 is even better, with a forecast of total construction spending up 11%, nonresidential construction spending up 8%, heavy engineering up 8%, and residential up 15%. The U.S. economy and commercial construction face several risks that could lower the growth forecast and increase the risk of recession: ■ Failure to provide funding for the federal government by January 15 ■ Failure to raise the federal debt ceiling by the first week of February ■ Significant additional cuts to spending as part of an agreement to fund federal government operations or as part of a deal to raise the federal debt ceiling ■ Sovereign debt default by one or more major European countries ■ One or more countries abandoning the euro ■ Significantly higher oil prices (roughly 50% a barrel or higher) for a sustained period (two months or longer)
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Association of Licensed Architects Continuing Education
5 Ways to Optimize Framing by Bob Clark, APA-The Engineered Wood Association
Advanced framing can save materials and time while boosting your homes’ efficiencies. Here are 5 techniques that can be adopted independently. s building pros look for ways to cut costs while meeting evermore-stringent energy codes, many are turning to advanced framing methods. Also known as "optimum value engineering (OVE)," advanced framing techniques optimize material usage to cut down on waste, eliminate redundancies, reduce labor, and increase a home’s energy efficiency, while maintaining structural integrity. APA-The Engineered Wood Association recently published a 24page Advanced Framing Construction Guide that provides an overview of some of the techniques, including those that can be used toward Energy Star certification. In addition, architects can download CAD details for advanced framing from www.apacad.org.
Benefits to Advanced Framing Advanced framing produces energy efficient, structurally sound homes with lower material and labor costs than conventionally framed houses. The key advantages of advanced framing include: ■ Energy Efficiency Advanced framing is a proven method for cost-effectively meeting energy code requirements. By maximizing space for cavity insulation and minimizing the potential for insulation voids, advanced framing delivers significant energy performance and cost savings for the builder. Walls built with 2x6 wood framing spaced 24 inches on center have deeper, wider insulation cavities than conventional 2x4 framing spaced 16 inches on center. Increasing the amount of insulation inside the wall improves the whole wall R-value (resistance to heat flow). In addition to maximizing space for cavity insulation, advanced framing simplifies the installation of insulation and air sealing. Conventional framing can leave voids and small cavities in the framing at wall intersections and corners that can be difficult to
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Learning Objective: By the completion of this educational unit, you should be able to: • Explain the benefits of Advanced Framing as compared to conventional framing. • Understand five or more techniques that are considered Advanced Framing. • Develop a plan to implement Advanced Framing details oneat-a-time • Explore why advanced framing is a proven method for cost effectively meeting energy code requirements. insulate and seal effectively. By installing fewer framing members, it is easier for the builder to apply complete insulation coverage and achieve a tighter building envelope. ■ Cost Effectiveness Advanced framing is less expensive because it is more resource efficient than conventional framing. By optimizing framing material use, the builder can cut floor and wall framing material costs by up to 30 percent while reducing framing installation labor. Advanced framing can help to increase the efficiency of other trades as well; more space between framing members means fewer studs for plumbers and electricians to drill through and fewer cavities for insulators to fill. Additional savings may result from a reduction in construction waste and Dumpster costs. ■ Structural Integrity The advanced framing method combined with continuous wood structural panel sheathing delivers an optimal solution:
a cost-effective framing system that will produce more energy efficient homes without compromising the strength or durability of the structure. Where builders align the vertical framing members under the roof trusses or rafters, a direct load path is created in which compression and tension loads are directly transferred through the vertical framing members. The result is a stronger structure with fewer framing members subject to stresses. When properly constructed, advanced framed walls that are fully sheathed with wood structural panels provide the structure with the strength to safely withstand design loads. Of all the available wall sheathing products, wood structural panels are afforded the most flexibility within the building code for 24-inch on center wall framing, providing solutions to code limitations that restrict most other wall bracing materials and popular siding products.
WALL FRAME COMPARISON Single top plate
2x6 studs 24" o.c.
Redundant cripple studs eliminated
Advanced framing
■ Sustainability Wood construction systems such as advanced framing techniques fit well with green building strategies. Wood is a renewable resource that is manufactured in efficient processes that require less energy than is required for other building materials, such as steel and concrete. Wood-frame construction that utilizes advanced framing techniques delivers even greater environmental dividends by optimizing material usage and reducing construction waste. Many of the construction techniques presented in this guide may be eligible for points under the leading green building standards and guidelines, such as the National Green Building Standard (ICC 700-2008) and LEED for Homes.
Single studs at sides of opening
Wood structural panel box or single-ply header
Ladder blocking (optional)
Two-stud corner or California corner
Conventional framing
Advanced/conventional framing
Figure 1
corners (sometimes referred to as California corners) (Figure 2) or two-stud corner junctions with ladder blocking, drywall clips, or an alternative means of supporting interior or exterior finish (Figure 3). THREE-STUD CORNERS INSULATED THREE-STUD CORNER (CALIFORNIA CORNER) Outside corner
CONVENTIONAL CORNER Isolated cavity (difficult to insulate)
5 Advanced Framing Techniques To help make the transition to new building methods, advanced framing can be implemented in stages. Here is a look at five advanced framing techniques that can be adopted one at a time. Each of these concepts focuses on increasing cavity insulation and reducing thermal bridging, thereby providing overall higher whole-wall R-values. 1. 2x6 Framing Placed 24 Inches On-Center Framing members are traditionally spaced 16 inches on-center (o.c.). Advanced framing methods increase member spacing, typically to 24 inches o.c., effectively trimming the number of required studs by about one-third (Figure 1). Walls built with 2x6 wood framing spaced 24 inches on center have deeper, wider insulation cavities than conventional 2x4 framing spaced 16 inches on center, thereby increasing the amount of insulation inside the wall and improving the whole-wall R-value. For example, an advanced-framed R-20 code-compliant wall system provides a greater whole-wall R-value than conventionally framed 2x6 walls with studs spaced 16 inches on center or codeminimum 2x4 walls sheathed with foam. If a builder is switching from a 2x4 stud wall to a 2x6 stud wall, the decreased number of pieces typically offsets the cost of the deeper framing member, providing more efficient insulation, often for the same or less cost. 2. Corners Insulated corners eliminate the isolated cavity found in conventional three- or four-stud corners, making it easier to install insulation and providing for more cavity insulation space. Advanced framing wall corners can include insulated three-stud
INSULATED THREE-STUD CORNER (INSIDE CORNER)
ALTERNATE INSULATED THREE-STUD CORNER (WITH DRYWALL CLIPS)
Inside corner
Drywall clip to hold drywall in place Drywall Figure 2
3. Ladder Junction Tee Intersections Advanced framing ladder junctions are used at wall intersections with 2x blocking at 24-inch o.c. vertical spacing (Figure 4). This method requires less than 6 feet of blocking material in a typical 8-foot tall wall. In conventional walls, interior wall intersections include a stud at each side of the intersecting wall, which can require as much as 16 feet of stud lumber plus additional blocking material. Blocking can also often be made up of lower grade lumber or lumber scraps (cutoffs from plates or other framing), thus reducing waste and disposal costs. The advanced framing ladder junction method, when used at junctions between interior and exterior walls, provides a cavity that can be easily insulated, versus conventional threestud interior wall intersections that may contain voids that are rarely insulated. (continued on page 42) LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
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Association of Licensed Architects Continuing Education TWO-STUD CORNERS Corner stud 2x ladder blocking at 24" o.c. or drywall clips
Outside corner
2x ladder blocking at 24" o.c. or drywall clips TWO-STUD CORNER (WITH DRYWALL CLIPS)
TWO-STUD INSIDE CORNER (FOR WALL PANELIZATION)
Outside corner
Drywall clip to hold drywall in place
Sheathing installed by wall panelizer Use plywood or OSB sheathing for siding attachment per siding manufacturer's ES Report
Drywall
Figure 3
Wall intersections that feature a continuous drywall application minimize air infiltration by reducing the amount of joints in the drywall. Drywall clips can be used in place of ladder blocking. Drywall is not fastened to the clips; it is held against the clips by the installation of drywall to the adjacent wall. In all cases it is recommended to install at least one ladder block at the midheight of the wall to restrain the adjacent stud in a straight plane.
4. Insulated Headers Advanced framing headers offer increased energy efficiency by replacing framing materials with space for cavity insulation inside the header. Advanced framing headers are sized for the loads they carry and are often installed in single plies rather than double, as shown in Figure 5. Sizing for single-ply lumber headers is covered prescriptively in the 2012 IRC Table R602.7.1. Singleply engineered wood headers may be calculated based on tributary loads applied to the header: determine the live load and total load in pounds-per-linear-foot and refer to a published standard, such as the American Wood Council’s Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM) for One- and Two-Family Dwellings. Headers at openings in non-load-bearing walls are not required (Figure 6). The top of the opening can typically be framed with a flatwise member the same dimensions as the wall studs. Site-built wood structural panel box headers are another simple code-prescribed header solution often overlooked by builders that provides full-depth cavity insulation. They may be used as load-bearing headers in exterior wall construction, when built in accordance with 2012 IRC Figure R602.7.2 Typical Wood Structural Panel Box Header Construction and Table R602.7.2 Maximum Spans for Wood Structural Panel Box Headers. Typically built with 15/32 Performance Category wood structural panel sheathing installed over minimum 2x4 framing, wood structural panel box headers provide more cavity insulation space than dimensional lumber headers. Types of wood structural panel box headers are shown in Figure 7. Wood structural panels can be installed on one side (panel ENGINEERED WOOD AND LUMBER HEADERS
INTERIOR WALL INTERSECTION OPTIONS 2012 IRC Section R602.7.1
LADDER JUNCTION Single top plate
3" x 6" x 0.036" galvanized steel plate (see: PRESCRIPTIVE AND ALTERNATE CONNECTION DETAILS, Figure 6)
Top plate Outside of wall
Interior wall plate tight to exterior wall plate 2x ladder blocking at 24" o.c. Install blocking with wide face vertical for maximum backing to wall finish materials and for maximum insulation to exterior walls.
SINGLE-PLY HEADER
Single-ply load-bearing header (flush outer face of header with outer edge of studs) Cavity insulation space (to stud depth less single header thickness) Header bottom plate (to complete rough opening at header)
Jack stud or approved framing connector (2012 IRC Tables R502.5(1) & R502.5(2)) Outside of wall
For many one-story buildings, single studs at sides of rough openings may be adequate. See 2012 IRC Table R502.5(1). LARGE OPENING SINGLE HEADERS
JUNCTION FOR CONTINUOUS DRYWALL APPLICATION
Top plate Cavity insulation space Jack studs as required 3-1/8" or 3-1/2" glulam or multiple-ply SCL or lumber
3" x 6" x 0.036" galvanized steel plate (see: PRESCRIPTIVE AND ALTERNATE CONNECTION DETAILS, Figure 6)
APPROVED FRAMING CONNECTION OPTION (SINGLE- OR DOUBLE-PLY HEADERS)
Drywall Interior stud set in 1/2" from exterior wall studs Single top plate
Outside of wall
Header hanger or equivalent Single stud at sides of rough openings (most openings up to 48" wide)
Detail courtesy of NAHB Research Center.
Figure 4
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Cavity insulation space
LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
Figure 5
installed on the exterior side) or both sides of the header. In most cases, one-sided is the best option (if meeting the structural requirements specified in the IRC Table) because OPENING IN NON-LOAD-BEARING WALLS Conventional headers not required
Single top plate Cripple studs as required Opening top plate may be doubled for openings wider than 8"
Opening in non-loadbearing wall
Single opening top plate
Note: Use jack studs as required.
Figure 6
installation of interior finishes may be impaired by wood structural panels on the interior side of the wall. On the exterior side, wood structural panel box headers are a perfect complement to continuous wood structural panel wall sheathing, as the sheathing for the header also acts as part of the continuous sheathing. 2012 IRC Table R602.7.2 allows a 15-inch one-sided wood structural panel box header to span 4-foot-wide openings for homes up to 28 feet wide, and 3-foot-wide or narrower openings for homes up to 32 feet wide in single-story construction with a clear-span truss roof or two-story construction with floor and roof supported by interior bearing WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL BOX HEADER FOR LOAD-BEARING WALLS The top and bottom plates of the wood structural panel box header shall be continuous with no vertical joints in the wood structural panel over opening. For construction details and maximum spans, see 2012 IRC Section R602.7.2, Figure R602.7.2 and Table R602.7.2. 3" 3" 3" TWO-SIDED WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL BOX HEADER
9" or 15" wide
Insulation
Single bottom plate (no joints)
Cripple studs on stud layout Min. 15/32 Performance Category wood structural panel or thicker (sanded or MDO plywood may be used on inside surface in lieu of drywall)
Single top plate (no joints over opening) Wood structural panel face shall be single piece of 15/32 Performance Category or greater sheathing Cavity insulation space (behind wood structural panel) Single stud at sides of rough opening to 48" wide Jack stud required if span > 48" Single top plate
Cripple studs on stud layout Drywall interior finished
Min. 5/32 Performance Category wood structural panel or thicker Header bottom plate (to complete rough opening at header
STACK FRAMING AND 24” O.C. MEMBER SPACING Framing members are stack framed and vertically aligned to create direct load path.
APA plywood or OSB roof sheathing (omitted for clarity) Roof trusses (energy heel roof trusses shown) 24” o.c.
Single top plats
Framing members “stack” to create direct load path
APA plywood or OSB wall sheathing 2x6 studs 24” o.c. supporting one floor, roof and ceiling. Height limitations per code requirements. APA Sturd-I-Floor® minimum 24 oc APA Rim Board® APA wood I-joists or SCL 24” o.c.
NAIL PATTERN
Cavity insulation space (to full width of wall studs)
ONE-SIDED WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL BOX HEADER
hundreds of lineal feet of lumber per home to further reduce thermal bridging and increase cavity insulation, requires vertical framing alignment, in which framing members are "stacked" to create a direct load path. This approach requires a single-or masterframing layout for all members at all framing levels (Figure 8). When designing a master framing layout, start with the layout of the roof framing members, which is generally dictated by roof design and geometry, followed by the layout of the framing members below. Although this will be a change in approach for
Single stud at sides of rough openings to 48" wide. Jack stud required if span > 48".
Notes: 1. Framing fastening per code. 2. For engineered box headers with wood structural panels, refer to Nailed Structural-Use Panel and Lumber Beams. Form Z416.
Figure 7
walls. Openings up to 4 feet wide require only a single stud at the sides of the rough opening, eliminating the need for jack studs and thereby providing another opportunity to replace framing members with cavity insulation. Where nominal ceiling height is 8 feet or higher, an overall height of 15 inches allows for installation of 6-foot-8-inch interior and exterior doors. 5. Single Top Plate/In-Line Framing Single top plate construction, which in a single step eliminates
Figure 8
framing carpenters who are accustomed to working up from the foundation, addressing the roof first will simplify load calculation for the designer and maximize material efficiency. The type of roof design will impact the master framing layout. For example, hip roof design will usually require a different starting point for framing member layout than gable roof design. In hip roof construction, common rafters and hip jack rafters typically layout from the nominal center line intersection of the hip(s) with the ridge. In gable roof construction, common rafter layout typically commences from one of the end walls of the structure. Framing member layout will also be dictated by the type of roof construction. Truss roofs will often require a different framing member layout than framed roofs. When trusses are specified, the trusses should be stacked directly above the wall studs. There is no member offset, hence the truss and wall stud layout will be the same. (Continued on page 44)
For more information on these and other advanced framing techniques, download APA’s Advanced Framing Construction Guide at www.apawood.org and download advanced framing CAD details at www.apacad.org. See other resources at APA’s www.performancewalls.org. Bob Clark is a senior Engineered Wood Specialist for APA. LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
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Association of Licensed Architects Continuing Education
ALA Continuing Education Questionnaire -
5 Ways to Optimize Framing Learning Objectives: • Explain the benefits of Advanced Framing as compared to conventional framing.
• Develop a plan to implement Advanced Framing details one-at-a-time
• Understand five or more techniques that are considered Advanced Framing.
• Explore why advanced framing is a proven method for cost effectively meeting energy code requirements.
Program Title:
5 Ways to Optimize Framing ALA/CEP Credit: This article qualifies for 1.0 HSW LU of State Required Learning Units and may qualify for other LU requirements. (Valid through Dec. 2015) Instructions: • Read the article using the learning objectives provided. • Answer the questions. • Fill in your contact information. • Sign the certification. • Submit questions with answers, contact information and payment to ALA by mail or fax to receive credit.
2. Four advantages of Advanced Framing include Energy Efficiency, Cost Effectiveness, Structural Integrity, and Sustainability. a. True
a. True
a. True
b. False
4. Advanced Framing can be defined as techniques that increase whole wall R-values, reduce thermal bridging, and optimize building material usage. a. True
1. Other names of Advanced Framing include optimum value engineering (OVE), stacked framing, and balloon framing.
a. True
7. Ladder junction tee intersections create a cold spot or void in the wall. a. True
a. True
b. False
9. The International Residential Code allows for the use of single top plates when certain conditions are met. b. False
10. To use Advanced Framing, all of the listed techniques must be used simultaneously. a. True
b. False
b. False
8. Wood structural panel box headers are prescribed in the International Residential Code.
a. True
b. False
5. Walls built with 2x6 wood framing are always more expensive than walls built with 2x4 wood framing.
b. False
b. False
b. False
3. Advanced Framing can be used to help meet the Energy Star requirements for reduced thermal bridging.
QUIZ QUESTIONS
a. True
6. The model building codes allow corners to be constructed with only two studs.
b. False
PAYMENT: ALA/CEP Credit or Certificate of Completion: Cost: $15 (ALA Members) $20 (non-members) ■ Check or ■ Credit Card
Contact Information: Last Name: First Name:
Middle Initial:
■ Please send me a certificate of completion (required by certain states & organizations) that I may submit. Your test will be scored. Those scoring 80% or higher will receive 1 LU HSW Credit.
Firm Name:
Fax: 847-382-8380 Address: Association of Licensed Architects, One East Northwest Highway, Suite 200 Palatine, IL 60067 Attn: ALA/CEP Credit
Address: City:
State:
Tel.:
E-Mail:
Credit Card No:
(VISA, MASTERCARD or AMEX)
Expiration Date:
44
LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
Zip:
Certification: (Read and sign below) I hereby certify that the above information is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and that I have complied with the ALA Continuing Education Guidelines for the reported period. Signature:
Date:
2013 Architecture Conference and Product Show ALA hosted our 15th Annual Architecture Conference and Product Show on October 22nd at the Drury Lane Conference Center. Over 330 attendees enjoyed the day visiting exhibitors at the product show, networking, and attending educational seminars. Thank You to our 2013 Conference Sponsors: Bag Sponsor: Hamill-Mullan Group, Inc.
Breakfast Co-Sponsor: Custom Building Products
Coffee and Cookie Break Sponsor: WaterFurnace he day began with seminar classes as architects are able to earn up to 6 learning units throughout the day. Architects had the opportunity to choose three classes out of a panel of thirteen in various disciplines. In addition, over 30 students from area colleges and universities joined us to hear Harry M. Falconer, Jr., IDP Director from NCARB, speak on the changes and steps necessary to achieve licensure and how to get the most out of your career in architecture. Students stayed afterwards to visit the product show and to hear the keynote presentation. Our keynote speaker, Kai-Uwe Bergmann, Partner at Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), spoke to their "Yes is More" philosophy. With offices in over 10 countries, Mr. Bergmann took the audience on an international tour. His inspirational and dynamic presentation illustrated some amazing projects demonstrating how to bring a positive approach to designing sustainable and innovative
Breakfast Co-Sponsor: Cook County Lumber/Roseburg Lanyards: M.G. Welbel & Associates
buildings and cities. Over eighty companies and manufacturers were on hand to showcase new products and demonstrate available technology in the building and architectural fields. We look forward to a continued partnership with all of the exhibitors and hope to continue to bring both architects and exhibitors together to exchange new developments and information throughout the industry. Our show would not be complete without the loyal sponsorship of several companies as well as the generous contributions of raffle items. Be sure to see our list of sponsors, exhibitors and raffle winners on these pages.
Next year’s show will be on Tuesday, September 30, 2014 at Drury Lane. We look forward to seeing you there!
Congratulations to our Raffle Winners and Thank You to the Donating Companies Winner: Raffle Item: Donated by: Henry Castro, HOC Consulting LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two Bears Tickets for vs. Super Bowl Champion, Baltimore Ravens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J.N. Lucas & Associates John White, Harris Architects, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sears Craftsman 26" Heavy-Duty Top Chest 6-Drawer . . . ALA Aki Mishima, AMZOR Architects Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two theatre tickets to the Drury Lane Theater . . . . . . . . . Drury Lane Robert Kolososki, Prairie Tech Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Two theatre tickets to the Drury Lane Theater . . . . . . . . . Drury Lane Christopher English, Concept 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100 Lettuce Entertain You Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Huber Engineered Woods Bob Ganofsky, R.B.G. & Associates Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . $50 Gas Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IKO Midwest Patrick Luzadder, Patrick Luzadder, Architect . . . . . . . $100 Home Depot Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies Steve Rohr, Thornton Tomasetti Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kohler Moxie® Showerhead + Wireless Speaker . . . . . . Kohler Scott Kozak, Scott John Kozak Architects, Inc. . . . . . . Kohler Moxie® Showerhead + Wireless Speaker . . . . . . Kohler Ryan Bloom, FGM Architects Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 Visa Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M.G. Welbel & Associates Sam Salahi, Architectural Planning & Services, Ltd. . . . Starbucks Mug and Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marvin Windows and Doors Walter Matusik, Walter H. Matusik Architects . . . . . . . $50 Amazon.com Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Morin Corporation Lori Prosnitz, Lori K. Prosnitz Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 Visa Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NSG Group-Pilkington North America Jeremy Lew, Jeremy Lew & Assoc., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . Two Bulls Tickets vs. Cleveland Cavaliers . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pella Windows & Doors, Inc. Jean Leathers, Practice Clarity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 Best Buy Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SPEC MIX/QUIKRETE Chicago Arif McAlpine, McAlpine Architects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 Best Buy Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SPEC MIX/QUIKRETE Chicago Anthony Wachniak, R.B.G. & Associates Inc. . . . . . . . . $50 Visa Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tate, Inc. Don Sowa, Donald F. Sowa, Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 Visa Gift Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOTO USA, Inc. Robert Witte, Robert J. Witte Architect . . . . . . . . . . . Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise tickets (2) . . Chicago’s First Lady Cruises Alan Schneider, Alan R. Schneider Architects . . . . . . . Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise tickets (2) . . Chicago’s First Lady Cruises Janice Ninan, FGM Architects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . One Year ALA Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ALA LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
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September T S M
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T
2014 S F
5
4 2 3 11 12 13 10 9 7 20 17 18 19 14 15 16 27 26 24 25 21 22 23 28 29 30 1 8
Save the Date for next year’s Conference:
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Tuesday, September 30, 2014 at Drury Lane Conference Center, Oakbrook Terrace, IL
Attention Exhibitors! Call Pam at 847-382-0630 to reserve your booth for 2014.
Keynote Speaker: Mr. Kai-Uwe Bergmann, Partner at Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG)
Thank You to our 2013 Exhibitors Abatron, Inc. ALCOA Architectural Products All About Access Amerimix Ameristar Fence Products Andersen Windows, Inc. ARC Imaging Resources ARC Insulation Atlas Roofing CertainTeed Chicagoland Roofing Council Chicago Plastering Institute Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters Chicago Steel International Cook County Lumber CPI Daylighting, Inc. Concealite Cosella-Dorken Products, Inc. Custom Building Products Daltile Doors For Builders, Inc. Dow Building Solutions DupontTyvek/Parksite Financial Security Group Flameproof Companies Fox Valley Associated General Contractors GAF Graphisoft
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Hamill-Mullan Group, Inc. Henry Company Hoover Treated Wood Products, Inc. Huber Engineered Woods Icynene IKO Midwest InPro Corporation International Masonry Institute Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies Illinois Brick Company Image Grille James Hardie Building Products, Inc. Kohler Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. LiveRoof, LLC. Locinox USA LP Building Products M.G. Welbel& Associates Major Industries, Inc. MarketNet Associates Marvin Windows and Doors MasterGraphics, Inc. Metl-Span Moen Incorporated Morin Corporation Mortar Net USA, Ltd. NexGen Building Supply
LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
Northfield, an OLDCASTLE Company NSG Group-Pilkington North America Pella Windows & Doors, Inc. PerMar, Ltd. Pittco Architectural Metals, Inc. PPG Industries, Inc. PROSOCO, Inc. Rauch Clay Sales Corp. Raynor Garage Door Scranton Products Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc. SJS Components, LLC SPEC MIX/QUIKRETE Chicago Tate, Inc. Tesko Custom Metal The Blue Book Building and Construction The Sherwin Williams Company Tremco Barrier Solutions TOTO USA Inc. Tubelite Inc. USP Structural Connectors Water Furnace International Weyerhaeuser WoodWorks - Wood Products Council World Dryer W.R. Meadows, Inc.
CHAPTERNEWS ALAILLINOIS
November Program
Upcoming Program: Monday, January 13, 2014
"EXPLORING THE WORLD OF HIGH PERFORMANCE GREEN CONCRETE" with Dr. Andreas Tselebidis at Meridian Banquets, Rolling Meadows, IL 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM This seminar will demonstrate how High Performance Green Concrete is an integral part in the drive toward sustainability worldwide in buildings today. Case studies will include the NYC Freedom Tower, 432 Park Avenue and the Burj Khalifa. Attendees earn 1.5 LU ALA & AIA approved. Cost: $45.00 Members / $55.00 Non-members
includes appetizers, 3-course dinner and program. Online registration and more information can be found at alatoday.org or call the ALA office at 847-382-0630
ALAMISSOURI
Matt Brown of Energy Diagnostics explained "Pathways to Compliance" for the new Illinois Energy Conservation Codes for Commercial Building at Maggiano’s in Schaumburg.
"No Architect Left Behind Series" – Season VI
ALA Missouri presents its 2014 Continuing Education Series. This series allows architects to acquire 12 Learning Units per year in 6 convenient sessions. The sessions are scheduled every other month over an extended 2-hour lunch period – a boxed lunch is included. The seminars can be reserved individually or for the entire series. Members are eligible for a membership discount, and anyone is eligible for the Series discount. All seminars are held at the Masonry Institute of St. Louis, 1429 Big Bend Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63117.
Upcoming Events February 11: April 8: June 10: August 12: October 14: December 9:
"Need A Roof?" "Egress and Accessibility" "What Is the ‘IEBC’ and Why Would I Use It?" "Liens, Collections and Document Ownership" "Round Table Discussion: Architect Liabilities" "The Importance of a Professional Geotechnical Report"
Online registration and more information can be found at alatoday.org or call the ALA office at 847-382-0630
ALAWISCONSIN
From the desk of:
David J. “Koz” Koscielniak, President, ALA-Wisconsin The ALA-Wisconsin Chapter recently hosted two programs that provided for members to personally interact and get to know one another coupled with the opportunity to learn of two very dynamic businesses that are moving forward on a global basis with strong ties to our local economies and the region. Our annual “ALA-Wisconsin Cookout” took place in mid August at the South Shore Yacht Club. “Captain” Doug Gallus hosted our event for the evening. The featured speaker was Dean Amhaus, President & CEO at The Water Council. Appropriately, our program focused on water related issues and the emergence of Milwaukee and the region being recognized among the world’s most significant hubs for water research and industry. The Water Council is the only organization of its kind in the United States. It was created by leaders in both business and education to convene the regions existing water companies and research clusters to develop education programs to train our talent and build partnerships that cut across all sectors and geographic boundaries. It is striving to establish Milwaukee Region as a leader in the role of water issues that will continue to dominate economic and political considerations worldwide. A wonderful day trip took place in late September as we had the good fortune to visit and tour The Kohler Company. Two buses carried our Wisconsin and Illinois members to a day long tour of this world famous manufacturing facility. It is remarkable to note that while a large number of products today are mass produced by machines without much interaction of “human touch”, Kohler continues to have the majority of its products made by hand as there is no other way to deliver the quality products that have made them famous since 1873. A gracious “Thank You” to our sponsors, Studio 41 and Kohler for arranging the tour and an enjoyable experience.
For 2014, ALA-Wisconsin’s Board is focusing on promoting programs that are inspired by “Office Practice” and the realities that face each one of us each day as we derive our livelihood from our own creative profession. Relevant topics of contracts, fees and getting paid for our work are on the table. We are targeting the 2014 calendar to offer chapter programs and meetings on a regular basis at a pace of every two months. The 2014 calendar will offer a program in February dedicated to “Mistakes Architects Make”. A round table discussion will be offered at our March Meeting to address our daily challenges of “Contracts, Compensation and Collections”. April will feature a program on masonry construction. We are coordinating a visit in June to the Forest Products Lab in Madison, Wisconsin to be hosted by our favorite “wood man” and one of our ALAWisconsin Board members, Archie Landreman. The third Thursday of August, (August 21) will mark our next annual “ALA-Wisconsin Cookout” at the South Shore Yacht Club. Rest assured, the topic will be wet and the beverages will be flowing. We will complement our spring “Office Practice” program with another relevant topic to be determined. All ideas are welcomed, so we want to hear from our members as to the things they wish to delve into that will be of value to their own practice. Our annual ALA 2014 Architecture Conference and Product Show will take place in September. The year will round out with the annual awards dinner in November. A year of activities have been proposed for your participation. We cannot do it without you. This is your organization. Your involvement is key to making ALA a most relevant part of your profession and we look forward to seeing you, as well as hearing from you this coming year. LICENSED ARCHITECT • VOL 17 NO. 4 • WINTER 2013
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Join ALA in 2014 A SMART IDEA FOR 2014
Join ALA now and get a full year of benefits starting in January! Become a member of our dynamic, affordable, growing organization of architects. The cost for a professional membership is only $150/year. See page 15 inside to apply by mail or go online to www.alatoday.org. Call us so we can answer any questions at 847-382-0630.
Why Join Us? • A 15 year history of success • Representing architects internationally • Free downloadable short form legal contracts (16 to choose from)
• Professional designation and membership certificate • Network with your peers • Continuing education opportunities
• Hotlines for questions on ADA, Insurance, Legal, and Code • Quarterly magazine • Annual design award program
Our Mission: To advance the Architectural Profession through education and by supporting and improving the profession’s role in the built environment.
HOWARD HIRSCH President, Hirsch Associates LLC Member of the Association of Licensed Architects since: 1999 “I like the idea of a smaller organization–with more of a personal feeling. Being a member offers timely and engaging educational offerings and supplier access for technical questions relating to projects I am working on.”
Association of Licensed Architects One East Northwest Highway • Palatine, IL 60067 • Tel 847-382-0630 • Fax 847-382-8380 • www.alatoday.org