ArchPLUS Winter 2015 Vol. 2 No.1

ArchPLUS A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS WESTCHESTER + HUDSON VALLEY CHAPTER

DESIGN AWARDS!

SOIREE 78

ARCHITECTS ROCK THE CAPITOL THEATRE

STARTING A FIRM ROOFING TODAY

RETHINKING THE BUILDING ENVELOPE

WINNERS FROM THE 2014 DESIGN AWARDS

VOLUME 2 | NO. 1 | WINTER 2015

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In collaboration with Grandberg & Associates Architects, OLA Consulting Engineers designed the MEP systems for this full building renovation to construct the awarding winning Winston Restaurant. Opened in October 2014, the space was recognized with an AIA Westchester and Hudson Valley Honor Award.

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ArchPLUS: A publication of the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter

Winter 2015 Vol. 2, No. 1

ArchPLUS Staff Editor-in-Chief Peter Gaito Jr., AIA pgaitojr@pfga.net

Art Director Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP bd+c Photo Editor Jason Taylor, AIA, LEED AP Advertising Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP bd+c Valerie Brown, Hon. AIANYS, LEED AP Contributing Editors John Fry, AIA LEED AP bd+c, Gregg DeAngelis, AIA LEED AP, Manuel Andrade, AIA, LEED AP

Board of Directors 2015 President

Peter Gaito Jr, AIA, LEED AP, bd+c

President-Elect

Manuel Andrade, AIA, LEED AP

Treasurer

Michael Berta, AIA

Secretary

Rick Torres, AIA

Directors

James Copeland, AIA May Kirk, AIA Marsha Leed, AIA, LEED AP Kim Miller, AIA, LEED AP Sunghee Park, AIA, LEED AP Elizabeth Parks, AIA Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP, bd+c

Associate Directors

Erika Conradt, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP Nick Viazzo, Assoc. AIA

State Director

George Gaspar, AIA

Immediate Past President

John Fry, AIA, LEED AP bd+c

Inside of Union Station designed

by Daniel Burnham Photo by Peter Gaito Jr. while at Grassroots

Executive Director

Valerie Brown, Hon. AIANYS, LEED AP chapteroffice@aiawhv.org

AIA – Statement of Purpose: The AIA is a visionary member organization providing advocacy, leadership, and resources for architects to design a better world.

American Institute of Architects Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter P.O.Box 611, Katonah, NY 10536 914.232.7240 E-mail: chapteroffice@aiawhv.org website: www.aiawhv.org twitter: @aiawhv

Advertising

ArchPLUS is a quarterly publication of the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter.

For advertising information, please contact us: phone: 914.232.7240 or E-mail: chapteroffice@aiawhv.org.

Submission

ArchPLUS is currently accepting unsolicited material for upcoming publications. For submission guidelines and/or to become a regular contributor, see our website for information; www.aiawhv.org. For further information please email the Editor or the Executive Director.

Past Issues

ArchPLUS is currently available online at www.issuu.com/aiawhv Print issues are available for order through the Chapter office. Single copy price $10.

ArchPLUS

is a benefit of the American Institute of Architects Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter as a quarterly publication. For information on professional or allied membership, please call 914232-7240 or email chapteroffice@aiawhv.org.

The opinions expressed hererin or the representations made by contributors and advertisers, including copyrights and warranties, are not those of the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter, its Staff or the Editor of ArchPLUS, unless expressly stated otherwise. ©2015 The American Institute of Architects Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without expressed written permission is strictly prohibited.

WINTER 2015 REGULARS

6 A Word from the Editor

Architecture + Exploration

By Peter Gaito Jr., AIA

ArchPLUS

Winter 2015 Vol. 2, No. 1

FEATURES 15

7 Calendar of Events

First half of 2015, with more to come

8 President’s Perspective Welcome 2015

By Peter Gaito Jr., AIA

10 Emerging Professionals

News and Events

By Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP, bd+c and Erkia Conradt, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP

12 Legal Corner

Mechanics Lien

By Jarrett M. Behar, Esq.

26 Rethinking the Building Envelope: ROOFING A refreshing, recent look at what is happening in the roofing world today and what architects should know and understand about specifying particular products and materials. Seunghee Park, AIA, LEED AP provides an investigative report fresh from the RCI 30th International Convention & Trade Show in San Antonio, Texas.

37 Interview

Advice on starting a firm from our Chapter’s own Mark Le Page, AIA Cover Photo: DCSPCA Adoption Center Back Photo: Art House 2.0

29 Event Highlights:

Soiree 78 at the Capitol Theatre

Soiree 78 with Russ Davidson, FAIA, Ray Beeler, AIA, and John Fry, AIA photo by: Jason Taylor, AIA

A Word From The Editor

Architecture + Exploration

Peter and Manny at AIA Grassroots in Washington DC in February Photo by Valerie Brown, Hon AIANYS, LEED AP

6 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

It is very difficult for an architect to turn off one’s brain. In the office, it is what we do.

Out of the office, we shift gears and become quite capable of enjoying the pleasures of life, wherever and with whomever we choose to go. However, there will inevitably come a time, when our inner architecture switch will be turned on. We may be in a particular place or speaking with certain people, or watching a movie, or reading a book, when our passion for architecture pops into the forefront of our minds.

This is the core part of us that drives us and fuels our zest for life. It is through a thoughtful and playful dialogue in our minds regarding design (art, architecture, engineering and planning) and how those designs can be manifested into a built/redesigned element. This desire to improve the world around us, is consistent with our good natured approach to things. We are always thinking, planning, designing, rearranging, and the most fun of all, exploring.

This issue of ArchPLUS invites you to explore more than just the articles and ads, it invites you to explore the architecture featured in the 2014 chapter design award winners. The carefully chosen design award winners, including the architecture, their respective creative teams, and their place in our chapter’s history, yield a number of exciting projects that are close by your house and offices, in which you can further explore in person.

Other issue features in this winter issue include a first hand perspective of what is happening in the world of roofing today, some sound advice from one of our own chapter members on starting an architecture firm, terrific legal advice which could help keep more of your hard earned money in your pocket, and some welcoming notes about the role of architects today a

look at the year ahead of us, from our 2015 Chapter President, Peter F. Gaito Jr.

Our Chapter celebrates recent and upcoming events. We highlight an exciting recent social event, Soirée 78, and provide a calendar of exciting upcoming events including: a lecture given by Richard Garber, AIA of GRO Architects and Jonathan Maille formerly of SHoP Architects on BIM (Building Information Modeling) on April 23rd, a Stone Barnes and Marcel Breuer House tour on May 8th, a Construction Administration Panel Program on May 21st, and our Annual Golf Outing on June 1st, to be held this year at Old Oaks Country Club in Purchase.

Every February, AIA Grassroots takes place in Washington DC. It is a leadership conference for all chapter Presidents, Vice-Presidents and Executive Directors. President Peter Gaito Jr, AIA, Vice President Manny Andrade AIA, LEED AP and Executive Director, Valerie Brown, Hon AIANYS, LEED AP, spent three snowy days at Grassroots learning ways in which we can help the chapter run more efficiently, and speaking with our local government officials about issues behind which they can rally, which would improve the lives of all architects. The balance of the time spent at Grassroots explored how to best increase the value of our membership on a daily and yearlong basis. Many ideas were communicated which will be interwoven throughout the chapter programming and advocacy efforts in this coming year.

Please enjoy exploring this issue of ArchPLUS and I invite all of you to keep exploring our other events all year long.

Talk soon Peter Gaito Jr, AIA

Upcoming Events

Meetings, Tours, Lectures, and More

:HVWFKHVWHU +XGVRQ 9DOOH\ Luau Bowling Extravaganza @ Grand Prix Bowl, Mount Kisco , NY April 7 6-8:30

Fun, light fare, & libations. Hosted by AIA W+HV Emerging Professionals Committee; Mastered by the “old guard�?? Come, find out!!

Lecture Series - BIM April 23 6:30

Explore the latest trends in Building Information Management!

Richard Garber, AIA of GRO Architects and Jonathan Mallie of SHoP Construction will discuss topics featured in Richard’s recent book, “BIM Design: Realizing the Creative Potential of Building Information Modeling.

AIA NYS Lobby Day April 28

Explore the latest trends in Building Information Management!

Richard Garber, AIA of GRO Architects and Jonathan Mallie of SHoP Construction will discuss topics featured in Richard’s recent book, “BIM Design: Realizing the Creative Potential of Building Information Modeling.

12-4 Breuer House Tour May 8

Join AIA W+HV in exclusive access to this mid-century modern, ground-breaking residence. Originally designed and displayed at MoMA in 1949 and, relocated in 1950 to the Rockefeller estate.

AIA National Convention, Atlanta May 14-16

Construction Series, Session 1 May 21

This series of seminars will focus on the construction phase of project deliverables.

The initial meeting highlights methodologies utilized by several industry leaders and consultants. (Venue to be determined)

Golf Outing June 1

The 2015 AIA W+HV Golf Outing will be held at Old Oaks Country Club in Purchase, NY. The annual scholarship and Education Fund-raiser supports important chapter initiatives towards advancing architectural education.

Old Oaks CC is an historic club hosting past USGA US Open Qualifying Tournaments.

P.O. Box 611 Katonah, NY 10536 914.232.7240 chapteroffice@aiawhv.org

WInter 2015 ArchPLUS 7

President’s Perspective

Welcome 2015

by Peter Gaito Jr, AIA

President's Inaugural Address, January 22, 2015

Dear Members, Colleagues, Friends and Family, As your 2015 President, I enthusiastically look forward to taking the helm of the ship that has been steadily sailing along a new and exciting course for the chapter. This new, and mostly charted course, was set in motion a few years ago, to better serve our 600+ membership and the overall profession, and I believe that we have delivered.

For their support and guidance during my time on the Board, I wish to thank Past Presidents: Ray Beeler, Stu Markowitz, Bill Pfaff, George Gaspar, Greg DeAngelis and John Fry

Over the past few years, I have had the privilege to work with dedicated leadership, in which we have successfully accomplished many goals, in a very short time. These goals included:

• Establishing better business opportunities • Enhancing professional knowledge • Increasing firm profitability • Developing new programs and events • Raising the public image of architects • Engaging the Emerging Professionals • Restoring the Fun Factor to chapter events These were achieved thru a series of face-to-face events and chapter media

8 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

outlets from which I believe that our AIA members, our emerging professionals and our allied professionals, have all benefited, both professionally and personally.

And to these efforts, I shall continue Together, with our invaluable Executive Director, Valerie Brown, my fellow Chapter Officers and hard working Board of Directors, Associate Directors, State Director and Legal Council, I plan to continue the same goals by Enhancing our annual events, Introducing New events, and Teaming-up with colleagues, politicians and other professional organizations to help make our world a better place through architecture As you may know, our Annual Events include:

• January Inaugural Meeting (Thanks

to Alex/Wood Designe and Erika Kreiger) • Design EXPO (Thanks to Dennis Noskin and the entire Board) • Golf Outing (Thanks to Rick Torres and Steve Abbatista) • Summer School (Thanks to Libby Parks, Mike Berta, Manny Andrade and Seunghee Park) • Usonia Tour (Thanks to John Cirilli) • Bike Tour (Thanks to Peter Cole) • Design Awards Gala (Thanks to Julie Evans and Michael Gallin and group) • Soirée (Thanks to Jaclyn Tyler, Erika Conradt and Nick Viazzo)

Joining the Annual Events list last year, which will be back again this year, are two fantastic tours:

• Stone Barns Center, Breuer House and Coach Barn Tour at Rockefeller State Park in Tarrytown (Thanks to Kim Miller)

• A guided tour of West Point architecture with an Army football game (Thanks to Jamie Copeland) New Events planned for 2015 include: • Lecture Series – first one will be in early Spring • Architecture Schools Roundtable • Construction Administration Seminars • Hard Hat and Open House Tours With the same level of support and enthusiasm shown to the other events, the 2015 lineup could easily become part of the Annual fun. This year, we will also be further developing the media arm of the chapter in the forms of: our chapter magazine, ArchPLUS, our chapter Website, www.aiawhv.org, the Sustainable Design Database Website, other social media outlets, photos, films and audio files.

ArchPLUS level of contributors and sponsors continue to grow. In its debut year, the publication of ArchPLUS has increased our membership value offering relevant and interesting articles mixed with consultant and product ads to over 800 readers. We are currently looking for people to join the ArchPLUS team. It is a fulfilling, and rewarding endeavor. And if you are a budding author or just want to express your opinion on something interesting submit an article.

Keep reading and I encourage all of you:

Not just to read, but also to write, Not just to share articles, but encourage others to contribute, Not just to enjoy, but also to act on what you have learned

I know that your time is valuable and that there is much to discuss in any given year with many interesting and timely topics to cover.

We will do our best to provide professional and social events in which practitioners working in large and small firms and our allied professionals, can best benefit.

We will continue to develop programs and events that are engaging, interesting, educational and inspiring, that pertain to both regional and national interests. I will look to create opportunities to give you the tools you will need to continue your current professional success, so you can gain a firmer grasp of the ever changing world of technology, design, sustainability and the role architects play in society.

Some people are working with software that didn’t exist 20 years ago, designing spaces for companies that didn’t exist 20 years ago. And there will certainly be new software and new spaces to be designed that don’t exist now, in another 20 years. That time in between today and then, is how we, as an organization, will continue to keep our profession relevant, informed, educated, socially and environmentally conscious, and remain as community leaders.

And despite an economy mostly fixed, we will face many challenges in our profession including receiving proper

compensation for our services and having our clients and the public understand our enormous value for any project

To help this; Throughout this year, and continuing beyond 2015 with President Elect Manny Andrade, Treasurer Mike Berta and Secretary Rick Torres, AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley will deepen our outreach with government officials, our partnerships with allied organizations, and our overall communication with the public. We will actively respond to the growing need of architecture, engineering and planning concerns and provide worthwhile input when asked of us throughout our chapter area.

With the Board of Directors and our Executive Director, I look forward to meeting and solving the challenges presenting the profession today and look toward the future as we also support the

AIA National 2015 ideal, Look Up...

On behalf of the membership, I would like to thank our own Ray Beeler and Russ Davidson for fighting the good fight for all of us, at the State and National levels. There are two more people I wish to thank.

In the Spring of 1998, the Chapter President asked a young accountant to resign from her job as the chapter accountant.

He asked her to resign so she could become the Chapter Executive Director. That young accountant was Valerie Brown, and that President, was my father, Peter Gaito. I wouldn’t be standing here today, if it weren’t for either of them. So thanks….

I would also like to thank my wife, Elissa, for her wisdom, insight and consistent support of myself and the profession.

Architects play a vital role in society, improving the lives of everyone through our unique perspective and approach to problem solving. One great skill we architects possess, is to ask the right questions, so I now ask you to:

Continue to be inspiring, be inspired and become leaders in our communities Keep energized, remain encouraged and grow with us, as this chapter continues to serve as a valuable resource and a place where you can enhance your professional livelihood Consider volunteering with us, as we expand our face-to-face events and our print and digital presence

Continue to share the design and construction of your projects, share the community of knowledge behind your practices and help to advance the public awareness and the overall relevance of architecture

Stay tuned for an exciting year! Find out more about the chapter and upcoming events by visiting our website, reading ArchPLUS and attending our events. Best of luck, and I hope to see you all soon. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Peter F. Gaito Jr, AIA President

WInter 2015 ArchPLUS 9

Emerging Professionals

Emerging Professionals Corner QUARTERLY FEATURE

The resource for Emerging Professional AIA chapter members

News/Kudos •

ARE 2014 Kaplan Study guides have arrived! All Associate members are eligible to borrow the material.

Each section may be checked out individually on a loan period of 6 weeks with renewal possibilities available. Contact Jaclyn Tyler @ jaclyn.a.tyler@gmail.com for more information

•

•

Congratulations to Nick Viazzo, Associate AIA, employed by J Taylor Design Group in New Rochelle, NY, on passing the Building Systems and Schematic Design sections of the ARE. Nick has successfully completed all sections of the ARE. Congratulations to Christpher Ladanyi, Associate AIA, employed by Clark Patterson Lee in New Windser, NY, on successfully completing all sections of the ARE and becoming a licensed Architect.

E • merg • ing Pro • fes • sion • al noun

1. Any Member of the Architecture world that meets the following: Current Student, Recent Graduate, Licensed less than 10 years.

10 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

AIAWHV EP Commitee has formed The AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley EP Committee has formed. The commitee is looking for members to join the Chair, Jaclyn Tyler, AIA and Associate Directors, Erika Conradt, Associate AIA and Nick Viazzo, Associate AIA. The committee has been hard at work planning exciting changes for the local chapter members. These changes include quarterly reminders to update your IDP hours, fun new events including a Trivia night, and a design competition to be judged as part of this year’s annual Design Awards.

The commitee meets the first Tuesday of each month from 5:15-6:00.

If you would like more information on joining the committee or to send us your ideas for enhancing the EP experience in our chapter, please email one of us at the following addresses: Jaclyn jaclyn.a.tyler@gmail.com Erika econradt@cwbrown.com Nick nick@jtaylordesign.com

Spring 2014 ArchPLUS 1

Emerging Professionals

First AIAWHV ARE Scholarship awarded

BY JACLYN TYLER, AIA LEED AP bd+c The AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley awarded their first ARE scholarship on December 8th 2014 at the chapter’s annual Soiree.

Rochelle Rusinko-Solano, Associate AIA, of Design Development, pllc in White Plains was awarded the $1,470 scholarship based on her demonstration of financial need and the merits of her contributions to the profession.

Rochelle said the following about becoming the first recipient: “As I pursue my license, I hope this scholarship will continue to provide other young professionals assistnace in achieveing their goals.”

The second annual ARE Scholarship will be awarded in December at the annual Soiree. Applications will be released in August with an October deadline. Watch your email for more information.

The Emerging Professionals Committee thanks the following companies for donating to the scholarship fund: • Carol Kurth Architecture PC + Interiors LTS • KG&D Architects • Lothrop Associates, LLP • Michael R. Berta, AIA For more info on the ARE Scholarship, go to www.aiawhv.org

WInter 2015 ArchPLUS 11 Spring 2014 ArchPLUS 2

Legal Corner

Mechanics Lien: 101

by Jarrett m. behar, esq.

A mechanic’s lien can be a powerful tool in assisting an architect in getting paid on a particular project.

Mechanics’ Liens 101

When an architect performs work on a project and does not get paid, his or her remedies are not limited to suing the client for breach of contract. The New York Lien Law provides a powerful additional tool for the unpaid architect, especially when the project involves an investment property or a construction loan that needs to be refinanced post-completion. While a mechanic’s lien can be filed on both private and public projects, this article will focus on private projects for non-governmental entities. These types of projects generally come in two forms so far as a mechanic’s lien is concerned: a commercial project and a single-family dwelling.

Benefits of Filing a Lien

The major benefit of filing a mechanic’s lien is that the architect’s right to be paid will be secured by the real property that he or she worked to improve. Thus, to the extent that the client does not have any assets and cannot pay the architect’s fee, in the event that there is equity in the real property, the architect would be able to foreclose on the lien and get paid from the proceeds of an eventual foreclosure sale. That right can be an effective tool in assisting an architect in getting paid from an unwilling client.

In addition, to the extent that the client is not the owner of the real property, the mechanic’s lien will provide an architect with an additional party from which to seek payment. The only caveat is that the architect will want to ensure that his or her contract with the non-owner client 12 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

specifically states that the work is being performed with the real property owner’s consent or, even better, has the owner’s signed acknowledgment that this is the case. This will prevent a future claim from the owner that the work was performed without his or her consent, which could invalidate the lien.

Mechanic’s liens will take priority over any mortgage that has not yet been recorded as of the date that the lien was filed.

As a result, an owner seeking to refinance a construction loan would likely have to deal with any outstanding mechanic’s lien prior to obtaining new financing. Similarly, a new owner would take subject to outstanding mechanic’s liens if they are not satisfied prior to or at closing.

All mechanic’s lien-holders on a piece of real property take in proportion to each other regardless of when the individual liens are filed. So, for example, if a piece of real property was worth $2 million and had a pre-existing $1 million mortgage, then there would be a pool of $1 million from which all mechanic’s lien-holders would get paid. In this example, if an architect had a $200,000 mechanic’s lien out of $2 million in total liens, then the architect would recover ten percent of the $1 million pool available for the mechanic’s lien-holders for a total of $100,000.

What Types of Services are Covered

Essentially, mechanic’s liens are intended to cover labor and services provided in the course of permanently improving a piece

of real property. The term “improvement” is a defined term and specifically includes “the drawing by any architect or engineer or surveyor, of any plans or specifications or survey, which are prepared for or used in connection with such improvement….”

In addition, although not specifically identified in the Lien Law, courts have held that mechanic’s liens also cover construction supervision or superintending. It does not, however, cover costs incurred for the solicitation of bids and the securing of contractors and subcontractors.

As a result, in addition to being able to file a lien for all of the work that the architect performs designing the project, to the extent that the architect is also charged with project supervision responsibilities – for example, reviewing and approving contractor applications for payment -- the costs for these services may be included in the lien amount.

What The Lien Needs To State:

The preparation of a Notice of Mechanic’s Lien can be technical, and I would encourage architects to use their counsel to ensure that it is done properly. That being said, the Notice should state: A) The name and address of the lienor (in this case, the architect); B) The name and address of the lienor’s attorney, if any; C) The name of the client; D) The name of the owner of the real property and the interest of that owner (for example, “fee simple”); E) A description of the labor performed or materials furnished; F) The agreed value or price for the labor and/or materials and the amount unpaid for each; G) The dates that the first and last items of work were performed and/or materials were furnished; H) A description of the property subject to the lien, usually by address and block and lot if available; and I) A notarized, signed verification by the lienor or his agent that the statements contained in the lien are true to his or her knowledge, except as to matter stated to be alleged on information and belief, and that as to those matters he or she believes it to be true.

When And Where You Need To File The Lien

If the real property is a “single-family dwelling,” then an architect has four months from the last date that services were rendered to file the Notice of Mechanic’s Lien with the clerk for the county in which the real property is located. For all other private projects, an architect has eight months from the last date that services were rendered to file. If that date falls on a weekend or a public holiday, the filing may be completed on the next succeeding business day.

The lien needs to be filed in office of the county clerk where the real property is situated. Then within five days before or 30 days after the filing, the lien needs to be served on the owner and the client (if different) by, among other methods, certified or registered mail addressed to the owner’s and client’s last known place of business. An affidavit attesting to such service should be filed with the same county clerk no later than 35 days after the notice was filed.

How Long The Lien Lasts

The mechanic’s lien will be valid for one year from the date of filing.

Other than for a lien on a single-family dwelling, a lienor may obtain a single one year extension as of right by filing an extension with the county clerk. For any extensions of a lien on a singlefamily dwelling, or for a second extension on other real property, a court order extending the lien must be obtained. If no legal proceeding to foreclose on the lien is brought prior to expiration of the lien, then the lien will automatically expire.

Enforcing the Lien

Assuming that the simple filing and service of the lien does not get the architect paid, he or she will have to commence a legal proceeding to foreclose on the lien prior to the lien’s expiration. The architect can include breach of contract and related claims in the same lawsuit, even if the client and the property owner are separate parties. When the suit is commenced, a Notice of Pendency will also have to be filed with the county clerk. This notice puts the world on notice of the architect’s secured claim against the real property and operates to protect that secured interest during the pendency of the lawsuit, even after the lien would have otherwise expired.

Conclusion

A mechanic’s lien can be a powerful tool in assisting an architect in getting paid on a particular project. The requirements of the lien law are highly technical and it is recommended that an architect have counsel prepare, file and arrange for enforcement of the lien, especially when a large amount of unpaid fees hangs in the balance. Particular attention should be paid to the client’s and/or owner’s financing requirements. In the event that the architect has not been paid a significant amount and believes that the owner is in the process of obtaining financing or refinancing secured by its real property, it is advisable to file a lien as soon as practicable to ensure that there is sufficient equity in the property to satisfy the architect’s claim.

For additional information concerning this article or other issues of significance to architects, please feel free to contact Jarrett M. Behar, a member of the law firm Sinnreich Kosakoff & Messina LLP at jbehar@skmlaw.net. Mr. Behar practices in the areas of commercial litigation, construction law and professional liability defense, and has represented architects in the filing of mechanic’s liens and prosecution of lien foreclosure and related contractual claims.

WInter 2015 ArchPLUS 13

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Feature

The Celebration of Architecture Gala was held November 5, 2014 at the Larchmont yacht Club in Larchmont, NY. This project had received a Design Award from our Chapter Design Awards program in 2013.

Event Sponsors

Andron Construction Corporation Damiano Barile Engineers , P.C. O’Dea Lynch Abbattista Engineers

The Jury

Peter Twombly, AIA - Estes/Twombly Architects, Newport, RI Douglas Kallfelz, AIA - Union Studio Architects, Providence, RI Albert Garcia, AIA - KITE Architects, Providence, RI

Awards Committee

Julie Evans, Sandy Mintzes, Michael Gallin, Erika Conradt, Erik Kaeyer, Michiko Kishi

We invite those of you who have not yet participated in the awards program to submit your work! Pulling back, assessing your work, distilling project images and intentions for a jury, is a great investment in your practice.

WInter 2015 ArchPLUS 15

2014 DESIGN AWARDS | AIA-WHV

HIGH HONOR AWARD:

DCSPCA Adoption and Education Center ARCHITECT: Rolando Kraeher CATEGORY: Commercial The project is the new Adoption and Education Center for the Dutchess County SPCA in the town of Hyde Park, New York, and is the first phase of a six phase multiyear project. It is situated within the client’s 32.6 acre property and it will serve as the entry gate to all future buildings. The project was designed to revamp the image of the institution within the community and to create a welcoming, safe, open and stress-free environment. The project includes the infrastructure necessary for all future buildings including access roads, geothermal wells and Constructed Wetlands as the wastewater system, which allows black and grey water discharges to be fully filtered and decontaminated by microorganisms and plants.

16 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

2014 DESIGN AWARDS | AIA-WHV

HONOR AWARD: Lincoln Depot Museum ARCHITECT: WASA / Studio A CATEGORY: Historic Design of the adaptive reuse of a 2,800sf historic train depot located in the Hudson Valley community of Peekskill, NY. The purpose of the new museum is to illuminate Lincoln’s relationships with the political, financial, industrial and military leaders of Peekskill and the surrounding region, both before and during the Civil War years. The project includes an interior and exterior restoration, along with the sensitive integration of all new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems.

CITATION AWARD:

Regional Education Center at Arden Hill Orange Ulster BOCES ARCHITECT: KG&D Architects, PC CATEGORY: Intitutional The new Orange Ulster BOCES Regional Education Center at Arden Hill, designed by KG&D Architects, PC of Mount Kisco, NY transformed the Arden Hill Hospital campus into a vibrant and inviting educational facility.

Extensive renovations of the 200,000sf hospital included new building systems, reconfigured spaces to allow for the appropriate room size and program adjacencies, a new addition to connect East and North wings and major renovations to the building’s main entrance vestibule. The project successfully created a facility that was unrecognizable as a hospital campus and clearly identifiable as a welcoming and engaging learning environment.

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2014 DESIGN AWARDS | AIA-WHV

HONOR AWARD: Art House 2.0

ARCHITECT: Carol Kurth Architecture, PC CATEGORY: Residential

CITATION AWARD:

Nestled into a wooded property, Art House 2.0 is a serene modern retreat showcasing the client’s growing modern art collection.

The result is an open, airy, gallery-like home that frames views to the natural woodland setting. At one with the site, the house nestles amidst natural stone outcroppings and untouched forest. The use of indigenous stone materials and cedar juxtapose the rectilinear forms and glass expanses.

The use of shaded horizontal overhangs takes advantage of natural daylight to illuminate the interior and creates a passive solar effect. Geothermal energy systems further the thoughtful response to the environmental aspects of the home.

Designed with views framed to nature, the clients enjoy the art of the landscape and ever changing display of nature, while enjoying the permanent collection of art within. Embedded in the woods, the residence is a tranquil canvas for two art lovers.

Westchester Complete Transformation

ARCHITECT: Daniel Contelmo Architects

CATEGORY: Interiors

New roof lines, porches, and exterior detailing transformed this 1980’s colonial into a timeless classic. Extensive interior renovations, beginning with the entry, give family and friends a seamless transition from the nostalgic exterior to the formal spaces. Built-ins in almost every room, along with coffered ceilings and wainscoting, create a feeling of custom design throughout. The ultimate in relaxation is your feet up while sitting by the fire in the screened-in porch.

18 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

2014 DESIGN AWARDS | AIA-WHV

CITATION AWARD:

Columbia County Courthouse ARCHITECT: Lothrop Associates, LLP CATEGORY: Historic PARTICIPANTS:

John Cutsumpas, AIA, NCARB - Lothrop Associates LLP Jennifer Fernandez, R.A. - Lothrop Associates LLP Wayne Karabinos, R.A. - Lothrop Associates LLP Lori Saccardi - Lothrop Associates LLP Rick Thoma. - Lothrop Associates LLP

CLIENTS:

Columbia County Department of Public Works

HONOR AWARD: Winston

ARCHITECT: Grandberg & Associates Architects CATEGORY: Commercial View from 2nd floor balcony dining illustrating bar below and atrium skylight above.

View looking at East faรงade illustrating construction detailing of brick, industrial sash, limestone and cornice.

Interior longitudinal view illustrating the integration of structural steel, masonry, decorative steel, atrium skylight and custom lighting details.

The bar is stained Ash wood with a hammered zinc top responsive to the steel framing perimeter above with a bolted steel plate ceiling.

2014 DESIGN AWARDS | AIA-WHV

HONOR AWARD: Temple Beth Abraham

ARCHITECT: Peter Gisolfi Associates CATEGORY: Interiors Renovation to the sanctuary including replacement of windows, walls and improved lighting and acoustics dramatically transformed the space. The most significant improvement was the reconstruction of the bimah--the elevated platform--for the clergy.

The sanctuary is now a calm, warm and inviting space that truly reflects the values and mission of Temple Beth Abraham.

CITATION AWARD: Henry H. Wells Middle School

ARCHITECT: KG&D Architects, PC

The renovated Henry H. Wells Middle School, remade an aging traditional 1957 building into a vibrant 21st Century school. The improved building layout connects the school community providing a better sense of identity. As a part of the District’s mandate for an environmentally conscious building, the design also included a highperformance and high-efficiency design solutions. The project ultimately resulted in an integrated and comprehensive facility that addressed the aging building’s weaknesses while simultaneously creating 21st Century learning environments and providing the Brewster community with a dynamic neighborhood school.

CATEGORY: Institutional

2014 DESIGN AWARDS | AIA-WHV

CITATION AWARD: Ramsey Public Library

ARCHITECT: Lothrop Associates, LLP CATEGORY: Interiors PARTICIPANTS:

James D. Lothrop, AIA, ASID, NCARB Lothrop Associates LLP William Simmons, AIA Lothrop Associates LLP Mark Porterfield, AIA Lothrop Associates LLP Vincent Lisanti, AIA Lothrop Associates LLP Judy Girod, ASID Lothrop Associates LLP Jennifer Fernandez, R.A Lothrop Associates LLP

CITATION AWARD:

National Microfinance Bank, HQ Data Center ARCHITECT: Lothrop Associates, LLP CATEGORY: Unbuilt PARTICIPANTS: John Cutsumpas AIA Lothrop Associates Greg Jasmin Syska Hennessy Group, Dubai Internet City Chris Johnston P.E. Syska Hennessy Group, Atlanta Henry Yiin Syska Hennessy Group, New York Eric Mwenda WIA Group, Tanzania

22 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

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Feature

Rethinking the Building Envelope: Roofing by seunghee park, aia, leed ap

As codes become more stringent, and we become more energy conscious, the building envelope will demand ever more consideration during the design process.

Recently, I had the privilege to attend RCI 30th International Convention & Trade Show in San Antonio, Texas.

As some of you may already know, RCI, Incorporated is an international nonprofit association of professional consultants, architects, engineers, and contractors who specialize in the specification, design, and construction of roofing, waterproofing and exterior wall systems. Its headquarter is located in Raleigh, NC, and it has about 3,000 members from across the globe (primarily from the United States and Canada).

As I learned by attending the convention, RCI (formerly Roof Consultants Institute) expanded its mission and service scope to include waterproofing and exterior walls in 2006. This action reflects the realization that roofing principles and technologies are increasingly correlate with those of the entire building envelope from below-grade to rooftop

The roof has always been a quintessential symbol of home or shelter (as in the expression “a roof over one’s head”), and it is reasonable to expect a roof to protect you from outside elements.

26 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

But statistics shows that the roof-related lawsuits and arbitrations, and other claims are a significant portion of the construction defect cases brought by building owners in any given years. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, the sources of the problems are attributable: 50% to poor workmanship (improper installation), 20% to poor design, 15% to poor maintenance and 10% to material failure. Considering that the cost of roof systems are a relatively small part of a building’s total construction cost, this statistic seems even more puzzling.

Why is the roof the source of so much building dysfunction? Studies show that roof systems are selected primarily on initial cost more often than is the case in any other building envelope components. Further, the roof system is often the first item on the list of value engineering. This lack of attention may stem partially from the fact that roof systems, especially for buildings with low-slope roofs, do not have a strong presence as a visual design element. And while it’s impossible for architects to control workmanship during the entire installation process, we are at least partially responsible for improper installations, because even an objectively well-designed system may not account for ease of installation and the availability of contractors trained in its application.

The Convention provided many informative continuing education seminars with subjects relating to the building envelope, including roofing, waterproofing, exterior wall assemblies. Many of the seminars were based on in-depth case studies and research, although the programs varied in intensity, from basic concepts to advanced specific application principles and theory. Interestingly, some of the seminars challenged generally accepted practices and trends.

For example, one seminar grappled with the pros and

cons of specifying reflective vs. non-reflective roof membranes.

The use of reflective roof membranes has steadily increased in recent years as an energy cost saving measure as well as a societal benefit to reduce the urban heat island (UHI) effect. The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED program, among others, promotes the use of reflective roof coverings.

The studies included ASHRAE 90.1, LEED, Energy Star, and ROOFPOINT program requirements, and several studies showed that using reflective roofs can provide energy cost savings and can minimize the UHI effect in certain instances. But the research does not unanimously support the recommendation to use highly reflective roof membranes. Some studies show that reflective membranes increased the winter heating demand in some climate zones (including much of New York State), even more than is offset by the decreased summer air conditioning loads, resulting in a cost ‘penalty’ for using a reflective roof. Also, depending on the assembly, reflective membranes can facilitate increased condensation within the assembly, because of the colder surface temperature of reflective roofing.

The general conclusion of the seminar was that reflectivity (color) of a roof is only one factor in roof design, and a responsible designer should consider the entire assembly of the roof and its role in the building envelope. Other variables such as building orientation, insulation levels, and local weather conditions may have more of an impact. For example, with a well-insulated roof assembly, the reflectivity of the surface will have a minimal effect on energy cost savings. And the impact of reflective surfaces on

the UHI only matter in locations where there is a heat island effect to begin with. The seminar incorporated some of the most recent studies available, but research on reflective roofing and its impacts on energy cost savings, UHI effect and climate change will continue.

Another seminar was focused on the details and methods to achieve energy efficient building enclosures and fire performance of exterior wall assemblies through case studies.

The 2006 International Energy Conservation Codes initiated the requirements for continuous insulation in steel-stud-framed walls to minimize thermal bridging. The requirement of continuous insulation increased the use of insulation outside of the framing and water-resistive barrier, and in turn, created concerns in terms of the insulation being exposed to moisture and not protected against fire exposure by a thermal barrier.

The widespread use of extruded insulation (XPS) to withstand moisture may concern for fire resistance of the assembly

by NFPA 285 (Fire Testing of Exterior Wall Containing Combustible Components) as since the 2000 IBC.

polystyrene also create as required Assemblies referenced

That means test of the actual wall assembly for types I through IV construction is generally required when “noncombustible” walls contain “combustible components such as foam plastic insulation” materials.

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The Studies show that the type, placement, thickness, and continuity of the insulation in the building enclosure will have longterm impacts on heating and cooling costs of a building structure.

Identifying and reducing thermal bridges can significantly improve thermal performance. Condensation resistance of wall assemblies using continuous insulation should be considered especially in cold climates. Designers must consider fire-resistance requirements of material in addition to meeting energy conservation code requirements.

A third seminar focused on the trend of increasing moisture problems, including mold and fungal contamination within the attics of ventilated sloped roofs. It was alarming to learn that highly insulated attics constructed according to best-practice guidelines experience increased moisture problems in woodframe attics even in the absence of interior moisture sources and with unrestricted ventilation. Improvements in attic construction practice, including higher insulation value, have reduced heat loss from occupied spaces into ventilated attics during the cold weather, and as a side effect, has reduced drying capacity of the roof sheathing, and created decoupling effect. Although the study focused on the Pacific Northwest, the findings may be applicable to other high-humidity regions. Through controlled field exposure study and supplemental laboratory testing, this study investigated the sources of the moisture and methods for mitigation of mold growth and prevention of degradation. The study elaborates on the contribution of the night sky condensation and exterior wet sources, and explored the potential mitigation technique of applying wood preservative to the underside of roof sheathing by testing several different treatment solutions.

We, as architects, all know a successful building calls for a successful design of a building envelope. But, how does a student in an architectural school learn and get trained about the subject to be prepared to enter the workforce?

Commonly the curricula of architectural schools is focused more on theoretical, formal, and visual disciplines than on practical ones. As a result, recent graduates rarely have any significant understanding of the building envelope as much more than a poché on the drawings, and air and water management are often foreign concepts to them. In practice, of course, especially in a competitive job market, design professionals are expected to have an understanding of all aspects of a building.

One particular seminar presented two competitions sponsored by an RCI Chapter to award $2,500 in scholarships to third-year students within the School of Architecture and Design at Virginia Tech (VPI). The competitions encouraged students to consider the importance of the building envelope and how it relates to constructability and building code requirements.

Programs for the competitions were written with a deliberate emphasis on the building envelope, so students were confronted with the constructability and weatherability consequences of their design decisions.

By participating these competitions and going through their research, presentations and critiques from the juries, students began to comprehend the complexity involved in designing buildings. Students in architectural schools should be more 28 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

exposed to the challenges of the building envelope either through added courses or by sponsorship programs as described in this seminar.

As codes become more stringent, and we become more energy conscious, the building envelope will demand ever more consideration during the design process. We need to consider the building envelope as an integrated system rather than to focus only on each separate component. Each element depends on the others to achieve its goal. At the same time, each element has different properties, and the transitions between them must be very carefully managed, because that is where failures usually occur. And, as crucial as it is to consider life cycle costs rather than just the initial costs when selecting materials and assemblies, it is equally critical to educate our clients on the value of doing so.

Lastly, maintenance and repair must be considered during the design of the system or it will never happen, and a routine maintenance program for the building envelope --especially for the roof-- is key to long-term performance as well as to keeping the warranty in full force and effect. Unfortunately, the roof may only get attention when it makes itself known, and when that happens, it’s usually too late to avoid a costly repair --or worse.

While at the convention, I happened to learn that the effort to save Paul Rudolph’s 1967 Orange County Government Center in Goshen, N.Y. was unsuccessful in spite of the petitions by preservationists, architects and concerned citizens, and that demolition will start in April. Although water damage and mold caused by Hurricane Irene and subsequent Tropical storm Lee initiated the closing of the building in 2011, some records indicate that the building had a history of water problems over its life. As early as 1970, it had leaked severely enough after a heavy storm that the Finance Department had to stretch a tarp across the roof. Upon hearing this, I couldn’t help pondering whether it might have faced a different fate if it had been maintained diligently over the years, or more importantly, if it had been designed to better withstand the exterior elements.

Event Highlights

Soireé 78: A Chapter Anniversary Celebration

Professional Affiliate Award

Public Official Award

Held at Garcia’s at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, December 8th, 2014 Chapter members, professional affiliates, legislators and public advocates once again joined together to celebrate seventy-eight years of the Chapter’s accomplishments and to celebrate various individuals and companies accomplishments which contributed to the chapter’s success.

The fun, festive formal, social evening enjoyed by colleagues and allied professionals was filled with food, spirits, networking, socializing and live entertainment. Attendees were also led on back of house tours of the historic venue highlighted by candid photos of the legendary artists that have performed at the theater. The tours also provided insight into the recent renovations, which respectfully restored the original architecture simultaneously providing modern technology for the high quality entertainment venue. Live music was provided by NOBA, a local band led by one of our own Board Members, Jason Taylor, AIA.

Chapter Member Award

Public Advocate Award

Special recognitions honored during the presentation included:

• Professional Affiliate Award: Builder and Realty Institute • Public Official Award:

Fred Sciliano, Councilman/Trustee, Town of Harrison • Chapter Member Award:

Dennis Noskin, AIA, LEED AP • Public Advocate Award:

Rose Noonan • ARE Scholarship Award:

Rochelle Rusinko-Solano, Assoc. AIA In attendance were Russell A. Davidson, FAIA 2016 AIA National President, and Ray Beeler, 2014 AIANY State President. Also, our chapter awarded our first ARE licensure scholarship, to which the chapter is now offering it’s associate members. This is following the successful model of both AIA national and AIA NY State.

ARE Scholarship Award

Save the date: Soirée ‘79 will be in full force again this December !

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Fun, Fun, Fun- we celebrated 78 years of the Chapter’s accomplishments, special individuals and companies

30 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

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Sustainable Environmental Remediation and Building Demolition / Renovation Project Management Presented by Martin McMorrow, PE Fishkill, NY – April 28 Credits: PE [NY, NJ, & PA] - 7.0 PDHs; Architect, [NY & NJ] - 7.0 LUs-HSW Legal Considerations / Professional Ethics Presented by Lee Tesser, Esq, Partner, Tesser & Cohen East Hanover, NJ – May 13 Hamilton, NJ – May 20 Credits: PE [NY, NJ, PA] - 7.0 PDHs; Architect, [NY & NJ] - 7.0 LUs-HSW Designing Building Elements that Involve Both Architects and Engineers Presented by Alexander Newman, PE New York City, NY – May 5 Credits: PE [NY, NJ, PA] - 7.0 PDHs; Architect, [NY & NJ] - 7.0 LUs-HSW Structural Renovation – The Challenge Continues…

Presented by Alexander Newman, PE Albany, NY – April 17 Credits: PE [NY, NJ, PA] - 7.0 PDHs; Architect, [NY & NJ] - 7.0 LUs-HSW

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36 ArchPLUS Winter 2015

Interview: Advice From a Chapter Member

Five Fundamentals I Wish I Knew Before Launching My Architecture Firm

by Mark le Page, aia When Annmarie and I launched Fivecat Studio, we were “young and dumb”. We were optimistic and enthusiastic, but we didn’t know what we didn’t know. We were 29 years old, had a dream of starting our own firm and jumped.

I always knew I would own my own firm. I’m a born entrepreneur. What I did not know though, was how hard business would be. Blessed with friends who needed architectural services for their new restaurant, we signed a contract and thought we were on our way. We thought that was all we needed; a project to launch the rest of our career.

That project did lead to another, and that one to another.

Our boards were soon filled with work, but a successful business depends on much more than busy boards.

We bounced from project to project, establishing a local reputation and building a beautiful portfolio, but consistently living on the edge of financial failure. It took us more than five years and a serious commitment to educating ourselves before we acquired the not-so-secret basics of business success.

I re-launched Entrepreneur Architect on 12/12/12 with a commitment to share what I have learned with anyone who’ll listen.

My hope is that others many not need to struggle for years before they learn what they need to know to be successful. As I look back on the early days at Fivecat Studio, here are the five business fundamentals that I wish I knew before launching my own firm.

Learn all you can about these five fundamentals and most everything else will fall into place.

1. Learn to be organized

Personal productivity is one of the most important elements of a successful business. Spending time on the wrong things will quickly lead to financial failure. Creating business systems to efficiently complete repetitive tasks and delegating work to others who are better positioned to complete it, will allow you to focus and spend time on things that will build a better business. Learn more about personal productivity here.

2. Create a life plan

To get from one place to another, you need a map to get there. To live the life of your dreams, you need to develop a plan for how to make that life happen. Your life plan should include both personal and business plans, as well as goals for every aspect of your life.

Learn more about developing a life plan here.

3. Know the difference between sales and marketing

From day one, we worked hard to build a strong brand around Fivecat Studio. We used our website and local networking to market our services. I loved to talk about our firm and we were great at marketing. Everyone in the county knew who we were and what we did, but we struggled to sign new contracts. After enrolling in a business academy, we learned, to our dismay, that we were not selling our services. We were not selling at all. We developed a basic sales systems and everything changed. Today, with a few simple steps, we consistently keep our boards full of fantastic projects.

Learn more about sales here and marketing here.

4. Understand basic financial management

Money flows in and money flows out from every firm.

Understanding how, when and why this happens is crucial to your firm’s financial success. Financial reports, such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets, are used to keep tabs on current and future business health. Running a firm without understanding basic financial rules is a recipe for failure. Learn about financial management for small firms here and basic financial reports here.

5. Remember that we’re in the service business

We built our reputation at Fivecat Studio on service. We work hard to design and develop remarkable architecture and we’re proud of our portfolio, but what separates us from other architects in the region is that we approach the business of architecture differently.

We see our role as a guide, leading our clients through the experience of designing and building their project. Our designs, our drawings, our construction administration are all tools for managing a successful experience for our clients. Clients will always share their experience with friends and neighbors. Whether they share a delightful experience or a stressful one is up to you.

Learn more about customer service here.

EntreArchitect.com, @EntreArchitect, Facebook.com/EntreArchitect Subscribe for free: The Entrepreneur Architect Report

WInter 2015 ArchPLUS 37