U of Michigan team looking to create highly efficient building envelope designs

This fall a team of environmental and computer scientists, along with architects and natural resources specialists at the University of Michigan, will launch a research project to design, test, and build a new smart system for building envelopes. The system combines the use of sensors, novel construction materials, and utility control software in an effort to create technology capable of reducing a building’s carbon footprint.

Buildings account for about 72% of American electrical consumption—despite technology that could enable many structures to give back more power to the electrical grid than they draw through features such as solar panels, according to researchers Jerome Lynch and Geoffrey Thun.

Thun said building systems can become more dynamic and responsive to changes in light by adding temperature, light, and humidity sensors that are linked to digital control systems. BD+C

After a century of service, use, and countless modifications which eroded the historical character of the building and grounds, the restoration brought the 200,000-sf building back to its former grandeur by restoring historical elements, preserving existing materials, and rehabilitating spaces for contemporary uses.

| Jan 12, 2012

Stellar earns construction industry's most prestigious safety award

Now widely accepted as the construction industry's standard measure of safety performance, the STEP awards were established in 1989 to evaluate and improve safety practices and recognize outstanding safety efforts.

| Jan 12, 2012

Building independence: New take on female power

Memoir explores historic engineering project, women's empowerment era.

| Jan 12, 2012

3M takes part in Better Buildings Challenge

As a partner in the challenge, 3M has committed to reduce energy use by 25% in 78 of its plants, encompassing nearly 38 million-sf of building space.

| Jan 11, 2012

DOE announces guide for 50% more energy efficient retail buildings

The 50% AEDG series provides a practical approach for designers and builders of retail stores, and other major commercial building types, to achieve 50% energy savings compared to the building energy code used in many parts of the nation.

| Jan 11, 2012

Mortenson starts construction of Rim Rock Wind Project

Renewable energy contractor to build 189-megawatt wind project in Sunburst, Mont.

| Jan 9, 2012

FGM Architects acquires SRBL Architects

The firm reviewed gaps in each of the markets and identified a need in the municipal market for stronger police facility design expertise as well as additional project management and design expertise for this market.

| Jan 9, 2012

Shawmut appoints Les Hiscoe COO and EVP

In his new role, Hiscoe will focus on developing the Company’s field services divisions; national business in retail, hospitality, gaming, and sports venues; Tri-State business in academic and healthcare; sales and marketing; and human resources