ArchPLUS VOLUME 3 | NO. 1 | WINTER 2016
A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS WESTCHESTER + HUDSON VALLEY CHAPTER
DESIGN AWARDS! BIO-SYNERGY
NATURE MEETS DESIGN
SOLAR TECTIC BUNGLAOW MAKING BRICKS FROM THE DIRT
ECO-MODERN
NET ZERO HOMES IN WESTCHESTER
$10.00
REdefining HOME IMPROVEMENT
Andersen® Windows and Doors are the most REcognized brand of windows and doors by builders and REmodelers! See the possibilities at RingsEnd.com “Andersen” and the AW logo are registered trademarks of Andersen Corporation.
ENGINEERING BETTER ENVIRONMENTS SINCE 1974
Alongside Alexander Gorlin Architects, OLA Consulting Engineers designed the MEP systems for a renovation and addition project of Louis Kahn’s notable design at Temple Beth El in Chappaqua, NY. The completed 41,000 square foot space received an AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Citation Award. OLA Consulting Engineers 50 Broadway. Hawthorne NY 10532 (914) 747-2800 www.olace.com
MEP ENGINEERING • ENERGY ENGINEERING • COMMISSIONING
ArchPLUS: A publication of the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter ArchPLUS Staff Editor-in-Chief Peter Gaito Jr., AIA pgaitojr@pfga.net Art Director Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP bd+c
Advertising Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP bd+c Valerie Brown, Hon. AIANYS, LEED AP chapteroffice@aiawhv.org 914.232.7240
Photo Editor Jason Taylor, AIA Contributing Editors Manuel Andrade, AIA, LEED AP bd+c; John Fry, AIA LEED AP bd+c; Teresa Marboe, Assoc. AIA; Nicolas Mariscal, Assoc. AIA; Nick Viazzo, AIA; Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP bd+c 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.
Reimagine an Icon Prize: $15,000
Accept the Architecture 2030 Challenge to radically reduce energy consumption in the built environment. Submit your vision by February 1st for a high-performance, eco-friendly facade that rejuvenates one of New York City’s most recognized landmarks. Learn more at metalsinconstruction.org.
Board of Directors 2016 President Manuel Andrade, AIA, LEED AP bd+c President-Elect Michael Berta, AIA Treasurer Rick Torres, AIA Secretary Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP, bd+c Executive Director Valerie Brown, Hon. AIANYS, LEED AP chapteroffice@aiawhv.org
Directors James Copeland, AIA John Cutsumpus, AIA Marsha Leed, AIA, LEED AP Kim Miller, AIA, LEED AP Seunghee Park, AIA, LEED AP Elizabeth Parks, AIA Nick Viazzo, AIA Associate Directors Erika Conradt, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP Teresa Marboe, Assoc. AIA State Director John Fry, AIA, LEED AP bd+c Immediate Past President Peter Gaito Jr, AIA
JURY
Fiona Cousins, Arup Billie Faircloth, Kieran Timberlake Hauke Jungjohan, Thornton Tomasetti Sameer Kumar, SHoP Areta Pawlynsky, Heintges Ben Tranel, Gensler
A Chapter of The American Institute of Architects P.O.Box 611, Katonah, NY 10536 914.232.7240 E-mail: chapteroffice@aiawhv.org Website: www.aiawhv.org Twitter: @aiawhv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIAWestchesterHudsonValley Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/AIAWestchesterHudsonValley
ArchPLUS
SPONSORED BY
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 914-232-7240 or email chapteroffice@aiawhv.org. The opinions expressed herein 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-in-Chief of ArchPLUS, unless expressly stated otherwise. ©2016 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 2016 REGULARS
FEATURES
6 A Word from the Editor
20 Design Awards
Design of the Times By Peter Gaito Jr., AIA
8 Sustainable Design Aiming for Zero By Joseph Thompson, AIA
ArchPLUS
Winter 2016 Vol. 3, No. 1
2015 Design Awards 30 Event Highlights: Soiree 79 at the Capitol Theatre
10 President’s Perspective
Welcome 2016 By Manuel Andrade, AIA, LEED AP bd+c
34 Behind the Scenes of Solar Tectic Bungalow
12 Emerging Professionals
Michael Molinelli, AIA NCARB, LEED AP, gives us an in-depth look at the origin, design and construction process of his 2015 AIAWHV Design Award Winning Project.
14 Code Corner
40 Bio-Synergistic Design
News and Events By Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP, bd+c
Get prepared for the new Building & Energy Codes to be released this Summer By Erika Krieger, AIA
Jodi Smits Anderson, AIA, LEED AP bd+c, guides us along a path of how we can better integrate nature with architecture, learning from it to improve our built environment..
15 Member News
News and Events By Jaclyn Tyler, AIA, LEED AP, bd+c
16 Legal Corner
Additional Insured Requirements for Architects By David B. Kosakoff, Esq.
18 Structural Solutions
Exposed Steel By Ciro Cuono, PE
42 Calendar of Events
Mark your Calendar for upcoming events
46 Looking Back 2006
Experience past award winners Front Photo: Ambulatory Cancer Center Photo Credit: Ron Blunt
Back Photo: Hobby Barn Photo Credit: Albert Vecerka/Esto
Capitol Theatre Photo Credit: Jason Taylor, AIA
A Word From The Editor
Design for the Times
Each January, we look forward to a new beginning, new adventures, new successes and new architectural achievements. The prospect of having a new and better year than the last one, is a large part of what a New Year’s celebration is all about. Sometimes that look to the future is predicated on continuing farther along the path from the year before. For others, it is a sharp right turn, heading in a brand new direction. Sometimes we all head in the same direction, banding together in unity as a show of support of what is right, what we believe in or what we want to change. The paths that we choose to (re)direct ourselves may be because of personal, business, environmental, or political reasons, or a combination of them all. In each case, we head into our respective directions with a confidence that now that the calendar page had turned, so has our ability to shake off the bad and embrace the good. As part of the good we will embrace in 2016, we will be celebrating the 80th year of the chapter. Our robust chapter has a rich architectural, engineering and planning history which will be highlighted and celebrated at various upcoming chapter events, special tours and featured articles in ArchPLUS throughout the year. The 2016 Chapter President Manny Andrade and the dedicated Board of Directors have some great things planned, so stay tuned and if you wish to help out, please let us know.
6 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
As each Winter issue is our designated Design Issue, we appropriately kickoff the year highlighting our previous Design Awards Winners and also get to read about some very insightful and interesting ‘behind the scenes’ thoughts on one of the winning projects. Another element of design we feature in this issue is an interesting thought provoking piece on Bio-Synergistic Design. Sound cool but not sure what it is exactly? I invite you to read on. Another issue that affects all of our designs, is the adoption of the new NY Building and Energy code coming our way this summer. A sold out group of 100 received important sneak preview highlights and notes last December, and in this issue’s Code Corner, we have a continuation of that information. We also have our engaging regular features including 2015 chapter event highlights including another successful Soiree, legal advice, new sustainable design thinking, and what the jury chose as the 2006 Design Awards Winners in our regular column, Looking Back. As this is also a Presidential election year, I am hopeful that the energy and dedication of the chapter’s board of directors, associate directors, and executive director, along with the dedication of our professional affiliates, and the enthusiasm of our chapter’s own 2016 National AIA President, Russ Davidson, will help to lead our profession to a brighter future offering a larger voice for our elected officials and other decision makers demonstrating on a larger stage that architects, our consultants
and construction teammates, truly affect change on a local, national and economical level. I look forward to seeing you at the Chapter’s 80th Anniversary exciting events, with a smile on your face and a pep in your step as we continue to improve the built environment, the lives of those around us and ourselves, realizing opportunities and succeeding this year through the power of architectural design. Talk soon Peter Gaito Jr, AIA
Scarsdale 914.723.2002
Yorktown 914.736.2468
Somers 914.232.2020
Stamford 203.975.9448
Do You Dream in
?
More at bestplg.com
Sustainable Design
Designing for ZERO BY JOSEPH THOMPSON, AIA
When DeGraw & DeHaan Architects was recently asked by one of their sustainable minded clients to design a new net zero energy residence, they had to pull out every trick in the book. This 2,900 SF sophisticated eco-modern style home, constructed by Kevin Gremli
Construction, incorporates numerous sustainable design strategies. Designing using a holistic approach informed every decision from solar orientation to finish selections impacting indoor environmental quality. The following touches on the level of complexity of the building systems that lie beneath the clean and simple modern exteriors of this house.
Above: Triple pane glazing with horizontal sunshade, photo by Laura Moss Left: Floor plan, by DeGraw & DeHaan Architects
PASSIVE SOLAR | The home is oriented along an East-West axis so that the majority of windows are south facing allowing for maximum solar gain. The sun is allowed to penetrate the majority of the living spaces in the winter months while they are protected by adjustable sun shades during summer months. RENEWABLE ENERGY | A photovoltaic array produces enough renewable energy to supply all of the home’s electrical needs while a ground source heat pump functions as both the home’s primary heating and cooling system. 8 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
THERMAL ENVELOPE | Spray foam insulated walls (R22 cavity) and ceilings (R-45 cavity) sheathed with structurally insulated panels (R-5 continuous) yield R values far in excess of energy code minimums. Triple pane Passive House Institute awarded Beiber windows with a u value of 0.11, were specified to reduce energy loss through fenestration. The decision to use better air sealing casement windows in lieu of double hung was made to further reduce infiltration. ENERGY EFFICIENCY | The LED lighting and lighting control systems result in greatly reduced energy consumption compared to conventional lighting. Intelligent timer, daylight and occupancy sensor lighting controls help to reduce the amount of lighting used. German made Bosch Appliances were selected for their efficiency and durability. If you visit the house you will notice that two appliances that do not fit into the homeowner’s lifestyle, a microwave and a TV, are not to be found. DURABILITY | Exterior finishes are all aluminum construction. Roof and walls are constructed of corrugate aluminum panels, sun shades are of aluminum construction and windows are all aluminum clad. Very minimal maintenance is required and the corrosion resistant aluminum is expected to have at least a 50 year lifespan. INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY | Great attention was paid to all the materials that entered the indoor living spaces. Formaldehyde free millwork, wood flooring, and no VOC paints were all selected in order to avoid indoor air quality issues.
SPATIAL EFFICIENCY | The three module layout allowed the homeowner to fit a lot of usable space within a modest footprint. The Living Module is flanked by the Children’s Module and Parent’s Module. The open floor plan in the Living Module creates an uplifting space with expansive views over the Hudson Valley. The client’s focus on holistic and sustainable living completely shaped every aspect of this design. Thought invested into even simple elements, such as an additional pull out recycling bin instead of a larger garbage pail, help to facilitate this family’s sustainable lifestyle. Their passion to live a cleaner and healthier lifestyle was the paramount force that drove this home to level of performance it achieved. Above: Eco-Modern home, interior Left: Eco-Modern home, exterior Photos by Laura Moss Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 9
President’s Perspective
Welcome to our 80th year…… BY MANUEL ANDRADE, AIA. LEED AP BD+C
Happy and Healthy New Year to everyone and their families. 2016 marks two major landmarks for our chapter. First, this year is our chapter’s 80th Anniversary. Since the chapter’s formation in 1936 our chapter has and will continue to develop into one of the major chapters of the AIA on a state and national level. The second landmark for our chapter is a member of our local chapter, Russel Davidson, FAIA, has been inaugurated as the 92nd National President of AIA. As we step into this exciting year, it is my honor and privilege to be your 2016 Chapter President. My first experience with the Westchester + Hudson Valley AIA chapter was back in my last year of the Architectural Degree program at NYIT. I was honored to be selected to receive the Westchester + Hudson Valley AIA chapter’s student scholarship. This program continues to award scholarships to Thesis and Non-Thesis Architectural Students, with this year’s golf outing on June 6th, marking the 26th year. Back in 2011, I graciously accepted the invitation to become a member of the Board of Directors of the Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter of the AIA and then a few years later the invitation to become a member of the Chapter’s Executive Board. During that time, I had the honor to work with and learn from great leaders such as William Pfaff, AIA, LEED AP; George J. Gaspar, AIA; Gregg De Angelis, AIA; John Fry, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Peter Gaito, Jr., AIA and Stuart Markowitz, AIA AICP LEED AP. Our chapter provides valuable resources to all our members. The only way that this is possible is by the hard work and dedication of our board. This year’s Executive Board consists of Michael Berta, AIA, President-Elect, Rick Torres, AIA, Treasurer, Jaclyn Tyler, AIA
10 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Secretary. The Board of Directors consists of James Copeland, AIA ’16; John Cutsumpas, AIA ’18; Marsha Z. Leed, AIA ’17, Kimberly Miller, AIA ’17; Seunghee Park, AIA ’16; Elizabeth Parks, AIA ’18; Nicholas Viazzo, AIA ’18; Erika Conradt, Associate AIA ’16; Teresa Marboe, Associate AIA ’18; Peter Gaito, Jr., AIA, Immediate Past President; John Fry, AIA, State Director and David Kasakoff, Esq, General Council. Before anyone can point it out, there is one name not listed above, this was not an oversight. I wanted to highlight what a value this person is to our board and our members. Over the years, many board members have served on the board but this person has maintained the valuable consistency that every board needs. She provides each Executive Board Member and Director with the history and knowledge of our chapter in order for the board to provide the valuable services to all our members. She is always mindful of the needs of our members and is consistently promoting the importance of the Architectural Profession. If you have not guess it yet, this person is our Executive Director, Valerie Brown, Honorary AIANYS, LEED AP. I would like to congratulate Valerie in celebrating her 20th Anniversary as our Chapter’s Executive Director. It is the dedication of this board and past boards that have allowed our chapter to grow to what it is today. It is our goal to continue to grow our chapter into an even greater resource to our members and to the profession of Architecture. Of the NCARB reported 107,581 licensed Architects in 2014, AIA reports just over 83,000 AIA members. The percentage of Non-AIA members will continue to reduce as the value of AIA membership is increased. Over the years, your chapter has provided many exciting events and programs. Our major events such as the January Meeting, Design
Expo, Golf Outing, Design Awards and Soirée will continue to be improved and offered this year and years to follow. Our tours will also continue to be offered to allow our members to experience the Architecture in our area. We have some exciting events planned for our 80th Anniversary so please check the chapter’s web site at aiawhv.org for upcoming events. Our chapter‘s publication, ArchPLUS is beginning its third year and continues to provide updates and information to our members regarding the architectural and design community. Our chapter is not only dedicated to our AIA members but also our Associate AIA Members. I recall the mock ARE sessions that our chapter sponsored that helped me and many others to prepare for the ARE. Today we continue to help our Associate AIA members prepare for the ARE with study guides and the annual ARE Scholarship. The Westchester + Hudson Valley AIA lobbies on behalf of our members at the national, state and local levels. One of the goals of the chapter is to increase our advocacy on the local level. Last year we were involved with the Westchester Health Department in defining and clarifying the requirements for septic design and with collaborative efforts, the requirements were revised to be beneficial to architects. I am looking forward to an exciting and fun year. Sincerely,
Manuel Andrade, AIA, LEED AP bd+c President
Concrete Block Mesa® and StoneLedge™ Retaining Wall Systems Split Face Block Concrete Pavers Face Brick & Brick Pavers Westbrook Ground Face Block Eldorado Stone Bluestone Fireplace Products Masonry Reinforcing & Tools Masonry Cleaners & Sealers Gravel, Sand, Fill, Bank Run, & Item 4
(800) 724-8460 We locally manufacture sustainable concrete masonry products. Providing quality products and service for 25 years!
Emerging Professionals
Emerging Professionals Corner QUARTERLY FEATURE
The resource for Emerging Professional AIA chapter members
News/Kudos • All Associate members are eligible to borrow the 2014 Kaplan Study guides. Each section may be checked out individually on a loan period of 6 weeks
• Contact Jaclyn Tyler at jaclyn.a.tyler@
gmail.com for more information on study materials, and events geared toward EP’s. Please also visit the calendar on our website for all EP events
• Congratulations
to Teresa Marboe, Assoc.AIA, employed by Gallin Beeler Design Studio in Pleasantville, NY, on successfully completing all sections of the ARE .
Please check our calendar at the end of this publication and on our website for updated event information.
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.
12 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Code Corner
Code Updates: Changes are Coming BY ERIKA KRIEGER, AIA NYS UNIFORM CODE AND ENERGY CODE UPDATES
Schedule for Public Hearings Uniform Code/Energy Code Update Albany: Monday January 25, 2016 10:00am Hauppauge: Tuesday January 26, 2016 10:00am Syracuse : Wednesday January 27, 2016 10:00am Buffalo: Thursday January 28, 2016 10:00am Additional Public Hearing for the Energy Code Update only New York City Friday January 29, 2016 10:00am
14 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Notice of Proposed Rule Making The Division of Building Standards and Codes is pleased to announce that proposals to update the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (Uniform Code) and State Energy Conservation Construction Code (Energy Code) were published in the November 25, 2015 edition of the New York State Register, commencing a public comment period that will end on February 5, 2016. As part of the public comment period, hearings will be conducted in Albany, Hauppauge, Syracuse and Buffalo for both the Uniform Code and Energy Code proposals and an additional hearing will be conducted for the Energy Code proposal in New York City. Comments received during this period will be presented for final consideration by the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council on March 9, 2016. The Uniform Code proposal is based upon provisions of the 2015 editions of the International Residential Code, International Building Code, International Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Fire Code, International Property Maintenance Code, and International Existing Building Code (the “2015 ICC Codes”) and the Energy Code proposal is based upon the provisions of the 2015 edition of the International Energy Conservation Code (the “2015 IECC”) and the 2013 edition of the Energy Standard for Buildings, Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings (the “ASHRAE 90.1-2013). Certain provisions in the 2015 ICC Codes will be amended by the 2016 Uniform Code Supplement published by the Department of State (DOS). Certain provisions of the 2015 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2013 will be amended by the 2015 Energy Code Supplement to the New York State Energy Conservation and Construction Code published by the DOS. The draft text of the Uniform Code and Energy Code and associated rule making documents are available for review online, as detailed below: Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code Update Proposed Action Repeal of Parts 1220 to 1228 of Title 19 NYCRR and addition of Parts 1220 to 1227 of Title 19 NYCRR Subject of Rule Standards for the construction and maintenance of buildings and structures and for protection from the hazards of fire and inadequate building construction. Draft Uniform Code Rule Text 2016 Uniform Code Supplement Copy of the 2015 ICC Codes here. State Energy Conservation Construction Code Update Proposed Action Repeal Part 1240 of Title 19 NYCRR and addition of Part 1240 of Title 19 NYCRR Subject of Rule Efficient utilization of energy expended in the construction, use and occupancy of buildings (the New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code). Draft Energy Code Rule Text 2015 Energy Code Supplement Copy of the 2015 IECC here.
AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley
Welcome New Members
As new members join the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley chapter, one of the top three largest chapters in New York State, our members gain more opportunities to network. Mr. Gabriel K. Ce, AIA Deborah Berke & Partners Architect 220 5th Ave #7 New York, NY 10001 http://www.dberke.com/
Member News Find out what your colleagues are up to...
GBds Wins Westchester Magazine Award GBds was honored to receive a Small Business Award for Excellence in Westchester County presented by 914Inc Magazine. The award was accepted by Principals Ray Beeler, AIA, LEED AP and Michael Gallin, AIA, LEED AP. “Westchester County is a great place to do business” said Ray Beeler. Michael stated that “This award would not be possible without our talented and dedicated staff ”.
Pictured GBds Staff from L-R - Frank, Teresa, Michael, Ray, Karolina and Stacey (staff not available - Rob and Glori) Photo Courtesy 914Inc
Julie Evans, AIA LEED AP is serving on a National AIA Commitee Julie Evans, AIA, LEED AP and current Chair of AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley chapter’s Design awards committee was selected to serve on the AIA Small Firm Roundtable to represent the New York Regions The mission of the AIA Small Firm Round Table is to advance the mutual interests of architects practicing in small firms. Objectives of the AIA Small Firm Round Table are three-fold. (1) Advocate for small firms within the AIA and in outside organizations and agencies. (2) Promote leadership in Small Firm professional development and practice; and lastly (3) Facilitate and support the local component round tables and small firm networks.
Julie will be co-chair of the Local Component committee, developing outreach to components. “It’s a very exciting and productive new Knowledge Community. I wasn’t aware of the scope of their work until I was asked if I’d serve. Clearly, if 79% of firms in the AIA are small, then their issues aren’t small!” Stay tuned for updates on resources available from SFX (Small Firm Exchange) in the coming months, and take note of the many Small Firm focused programs at Convention 2016.
Molinelli on the Radio Michael Molinelli will be hosting a radio program on RadioMaria on the topic of “Religion and Architecture.” It premiers on Monday, February 8th at noon and will run in the same slot for 12 weeks. The series, based on Molinelli’s live presentations of the same name, explores how dominant philosophies/theologies created the most popular architecture movements of the western hemisphere. It will also examine how many religions across many cultures from around the world use the same three basic architectural techniques. Finally the series explores Catholic liturgical history specifically and how it forms the church buildings we use today. Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 15
Legal Corner
Proceed with Caution:
Additional Insured Requirements for Architects BY DAVID B. KOSAKOFF, ESQ.
It is becoming common practice for Owners and/or Developers to impose onerous contractual provisions on Architects as a means of securing their services for projects.
associated with errors and omissions. The requirement that the Architect maintain professional liability insurance is common place, and should provide adequate protection for the Owner.
The failure of Owners to distinguish between the roles of Contractors and Architects has led to a trend where Architects are asked to assume significant financial risks which are disproportionate to the services they provide.
Case law arising out of insurance disputes provides little clarity as to the circumstances under which an Owner or Developer could seek coverage as an additional insured under an Architect’s insurance policy. The Courts employ a vague standard in analyzing such claims, and hold that insurance coverage must be available where the claim “originates from, is incident to, or has a connection with” the Architect’s services. The lack of definitive authority leads to litigation and expense for the Architect, even where there is no causal link between the architectural services provided and the injury or damage sustained.
More and more, Owners and Developers are issuing comprehensive contract terms that include the requirement for Architects to name Owners and related entities as “additional insureds” on the Architect’s insurance policy. These insurance requirements tend to expand the Architect’s obligations to Owners by potentially exposing their carriers to increased coverage obligations regardless of fault, if the injury or damage “arises out of the activities or operations of the Architect”. Since Architects are not typically responsible for site safety or means and methods of construction, the notion that the design professional should make insurance available for construction related claims is unreasonable. Invariably, it is the Contractor who is in control of the worksite, and the Contractor who is capable of providing a safe place to work. Accordingly, when injuries occur on a job or damages result, it is the rare instance where anyone can suggest that an Architect is at fault. Yet, under certain circumstances, insurance provisions that require coverage for Owners can be construed to force the Architect to assume responsibility for injured workers and provide Owners with insurance coverage at the expense of the Architect. Indeed, many contracts provided by Owners identify Architects as Contractors, demonstrating the disconnect that clients have in understanding the Architect’s role on the project. In the ordinary course, an Architect maintains professional liability coverage to compensate an Owner for legitimate claims
16 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
When faced with a request for the inclusion of onerous insurance provisions, the Architect would be wise to assess his or her risks to determine whether they are proportionate to the benefits. In other words - Is the Architect being paid enough to assume such responsibilities? It would not be unreasonable for the Architect to balk at such provisions, particularly if the Architect is insured for claims arising out of his or her defective work. Insurance coverage should be more than sufficient to protect the Owner’s interests, since it provides a method of recovery in the event that the Architect has committed some act or omission that damaged the client. The Architect is advised to consult with experienced counsel to discuss available options to avoid or minimize their exposure. Further discussion concerning this or other legal issues of significance to design professionals may be addressed directly to David B. Kosakoff, Esq., LEED AP of Sinnreich Kosakoff & Messina LLP, General Counsel to the Westchester/Mid-Hudson Chapter of the American Institute of Architects at (631) 650-1200, or by email at DKosakoff@skmlaw.net.
POST ROAD SCHOOL WHITE PLAINS, NY
GEOEXCHANGE HVAC, SOLAR DOMESTIC HOT WATER HEATING, DAYLIGHTING CONTROLS ENERGY STAR SCORE: 100/100 77 TARRYTOWN ROAD WHITE PLAINS, NY 10607 www.DamianoBarile.com (914) 328-6060
Structural Solutions
Structural Design: Exposed Steel BY CIRO CUONO, PE
Structural steel has been mass produced since the 1800’s when the Bessemer process was developed. Engineers, architects and builders quickly found out that steel exposed to high temperatures (fires) drastically loses its strength. To combat this they developed various fire proofing methodologies such as encasement in concrete and masonry and eventually spray on fire resistive materials, still in use today. Where fire proofing in not required such as in residential construction or some one-story buildings steel can be expressed as both a structural and architectural component. Where a fire rating is required, intumescent or fire-proof paints can be used to achieve both the technical fire rating requirement and expression of steel work. This type of fireproofing expands upon exposure to heat to provide adequate fire proofing protection. Care in specifying the right product and thickness is required. Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel (AESS), can be a beautiful, light, and elegant medium. In order to achieve a successful AESS project, close collaboration is required between architect, engineer, and steel fabricator. Here are a few salient points to consider:
Tolerances
Unless specifically called out, fabrication and installation tolerances Unless specifically called out, fabrication and installation tolerances are those outlined in the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Code of Standard Practice. For example, a steel column should be installed to a plumbness of not more than the height over 500. For example at 10’ high column would be expected to have a vertical alignment not out of plumb more than about ¼”. Where a high degree of precision is required, tolerances can be held to roughly half the industry standard. Any deviation from the industry standard 18 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
should be clear in the contract documents, otherwise it would be unreasonable to expect a tighter level of fabrication or installation to be followed. A first step in coordinating the exposed framing with the other team members is to review what the standard tolerances are and see how that aligns with the team’s and owner’s expectations.
Shop Priming & Finishing
Surface preparation, prior to priming is defined according to the Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) definitions, SSPC-SP1, “Solvent Cleaning” through SSPC-SP-6, “Commercial Blast Cleaning”. It is important to understand what each level of preparation actually looks and feels like in the field so that the appearance quality and cost are balanced. Not every shop fabricator is set up to do a blast cleaning which could require them to sub this out. Finishing is typically outside of the engineer’s realm and is usually part of division 9 work. However, it is important to understand the different coatings that are on the market. The structural engineer may need to be involved where SC (slip critical or friction type) bolts are specified.
Fabrication
Structural steel is not routinely exposed. As a result the steel may have mill and shop marks written on it for ease of shipping and erection. Certain welded connections such as beam to column moment connection may have erection and welding aids such as backing bars. These additional bars may not necessarily show in the structural framing plans and can be a surprise if not accounted for. Though not normally removed, they can be if called for. In many practical scenarios steel is loaded and unloaded in raw conditions and can be exposed for some time on a job site with
mill scale and minor rusting. Steel erectors are not known for being genteel; a sledge hammer used to whack a piece into place is not an uncommon site.
Exposed steel supports for an exterior solar array support Photograph courtesy of Neil Blackwell Exposed historic column and girder and new mezzanine Photograph courtesy of Neil Blackwell
Copes (notches for fit of pieces) and sheared edges and welds are normally done without any thought to finish appearance. All of these aspects of fabrication and installation should be scrutinized more carefully for AESS. Welds should be grounded smooth, mill marks removed or hidden and welding aids removed. One particular area of note is column splices. The typical building column splice is a few feet above the deck surface and is bolted. AESS columns may require a full penetration splice and careful thought by the fabricator on installing and removing welding aids. Also, splice locations may be of interest to the architect. This will have to be balanced with the practicalities of the site, logistics, and OSHA requirements. The American Institute of Steel Construction has done a good job in educating the industry on AESS. They have on their website a free downloadable specification for AESS with many clear explanations notes to the specifier.
Mock up and Team Coordination
Mockups are important for final selection of finishing and to make sure that all team members are on the same page. Another consideration is to involve a fabricator and contractor early, during the design stage, so that finish and fabrication issues can be worked out with the people who actually execute the work.
Ciro Cuono, P.E., LEED AP, is a structural engineer and principal at Cuono Engineering PLLC in Port Chester, NY and an assistant adjunct professor of structural engineering at the Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture at the City College of NY. He can be reached at ccuono@cuonoengineering.com.
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 19
Feature
AIAWHV DESIGN AWARDS
2015 CELEBRATION OF ARCHITECTURE
20 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Over forty projects were submitted for design awards in 2015. The projects represented an exciting array of program, scale, sensibility, and intent: from brick prototype houses with solar for the developing world, to refined transformations of Tudors to mid-century homes, to biomedical research campuses, to state of the art cancer treatment centers. Fourteen projects were selected for awards, including two special awards. The jury was held at the offices of Scott Simons Architects, Portland, ME, and consisted of members of AIA Maine. Jeanette Schram, Executive Director, AIA Maine, coordinated the jury, and Erik Kaeyer, AIA LEEP-AP, traveled to Portland to facilitate on jury day. The Celebration of Architecture Gala was held on October 28th, at Temple Beth El, Chappaqua New York. The Louis Kahn designed Temple had recently been expanded and renovated by Alexander Gorlin Architect, and the project received a Citation at this year’s awards presentation. Absolutely in keeping with the our goals of celebrating inspiring architecture IN inspiring architecture, the presentations were held in the sanctuary itself. The attendees were also treated to a tour of the of the facility by AIAWHV chapter member Peter Cole, AIA, who provided background on the project from a historical, architectural, congregant, and community perspective. THE JURY Rob Tillotson, AIA, PE, Leed AP – President, Oak Point Associates Paul Lewandowski , AIA - Design Principal, Lavallee Brensinger Architects Gavin Engler, Associate AIA - Carol Wilson Architect Scott Simons, AIA – Principal, Scott Simons Architects EVENT SPONSORS OLA Consulting Engineers RAB Lighting Damiano Barile Engineers, P.C., Mechanical Electrical Consultants Northwestern Mutual AWARDS COMMITTEE 2015 Julie Evans, Michael Gallin, Erik Kaeyer, Rob Mintzes, Sandy Mintzes, Susan Riordan As always, we invite chapter members to submit your best work. Juries appreciate innovative project types and thinking, and look to meaningful stories as well as images. Tell your story of a problem beautifully solved!
Photography by: Ron Blunt
INSTITUTIONAL
HIGH HONOR:
Ambulatory Cancer Center ARCHITECT: Ewing Cole LOCATION: West Harrison, New York CLIENT: Memorial Sloan Kettering Ewing Cole transformed a mid-century office building in Harrison, NY into a modern healthcare facility which reflects the high standard of care provided by Memorial Sloan Kettering. Modularity, flexibility, privacy, and continuity of care are woven through the combined examination/consultation rooms, private infusion rooms, and circulation routes punctuated by the positive stimuli of natural light and gardens. Partitions instead of full-height walls, textured glass panels, and filtered natural light complement the soft neutral color and materials palette in this LEED Gold project. Skylights and floor openings were added to bring natural light to the center of the building and to both floors. Healthybuilding initiatives included specifying all PVC-free products for both construction and design. The front of the building received an addition which created a new monumental entrance and established a circulation ‘spine’ which provides direct patient access to the multiple treatment modalities offered within the building.
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 21
Photography by: Jason Schmidt
HISTORIC REVITALIZATION
HIGH HONOR AWARD: Pilgram House Road
ARCHITECT: Deborah Berke Partners LOCATION: Westchester Co, New York This comprehensive renovation of a 1960s concrete and stucco house in Westchester County transformed the Milton Klein-designed house into a serene environment of minimalist detailing and rich materials, with enhanced connections to sweeping views of the lush landscape. In addition to renovating the existing structure, the work included a two-story addition pivotal in reworking the interior spaces into the open, loft-like living experience the owner was seeking. Dark stained mahogany was introduced to the existing exterior palette of warm white stucco. Large-span windows throughout the public spaces and the continuation of light gray limestone from the living areas onto the terrace reinforce the connection between the house and the surrounding landscape. This is a project about modern, serene living; a vision supported with clean, refined and luxurious architecture.
22 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Photography by: David Sunderberg/Esto
SINGLE FAMILY
HIGH HONOR AWARD: 35HP
ARCHITECT: Joeb Moore & Partners LLC LOCATION: Rye, New York The renovation and addition of a Tudor style residence in Rye links the home to its exterior by adding light filled program and circulation. While maximizing the habitable use of the site, the addition responds to the existing home, preserving its character and history within the neighborhood context. The street façade features a new, delicate, wood-clad entry. A minimalist box addition to the rear of the home contrasts and compliments the Tudor’s post and beam gable structure. The addition’s charcoal stained cedar skin striates to reveal a glass enclosure. The glass stairwell between the existing house and new addition creates a transitional space with natural light filtering to the rooms on either side. Through a series of elegant disjunctions between light and space, the design establishes a symbiotic relationship between old and new.
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 23
COMMERCIAL
HONOR:
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals North Campus ARCHITECT: Perkins+Will LOCATION: Tarrytown, New York The 297,000 s.f expansion of Regeneron‘s facilities orients two new laboratory / office buildings around an elliptical courtyard. The angled 4-story structures area clad in warm precast concrete and pale blue glass curtain wall, breaking down the scale of the buildings, and creating a dynamic identity for the new campus. Bridges connect the buildings to a parking garage, a pavilion, and to the rest of Campus. The pavilion has a coffee and juice bar, and broad steps leading down to a landscaped terrace surrounding the courtyard. The courtyard will be for used collaboration and company-wide events, as the heart of the new campus. The project targets LEED Silver certification. The new North Campus integrates architecture and landscape to create an innovative and inspiring 21st century workplace.
Photography by: FCharles Photography
INTERIORS
HONOR:
Jewish Community Center of Harrison ARCHITECT: Perkins Eastman Architects LOCATION: Harrison, New York
Two goals guided the sanctuary renovation—a desire to attract new congregants and to foster a new approach to worship. The original design distanced the congregation from the clergy, creating a sense of disengagement. The newly appointed sanctuary allows the worshipers to encircle the Torah, transforming the former observation based rite to one that actively engages the congregation. The design facilitates handicapped-accessibility, providing spaces for wheelchairs and a ramp to the Bimah to allow everyone to participate in all aspects of worship. The visual transformation is uplifting: dark paneling was removed from the windows; bronze mesh screen protects and accentuates the Ark, letting sunlight filter into the space; opaque glazing was replaced with clear, allowing views of grounds; and delicate circular light rails mirror and highlight the new space.
24 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Photography by: Sarah Mechling/Perkins Eastman
SINGLE FAMILY
HONOR: 38 PR
This addition and redesign of a 1920’s Tudor expands the home’s programmatic possibilities by opening a central core to light and landscape. Client and architect sought to create a compelling space that would connect seamlessly to the landscape, without disrupting the historic character of the neighborhood. The resultant open plan employs slight sectional shifts to define separate areas of use without interrupting views. The addition is a single story volume with a sedum roof. Its faceted window wall and dark wood exterior are in dynamic contrast to the white stucco wall planes of the existing house. By manipulating building surfaces and light in innovative ways, the addition sets up a dialogue between landscape and building, across various programs, across spaces and time.
ARCHITECT: Joeb Moore & Partners LLC LOCATION: Scarsdale, New York
Photography by: David Sunderberg/Esto
SINGLE FAMILY
CITATION:
Rye Waterfront Residence ARCHITECT: Amanda Martocchio Architecture + Design LOCATION: Rye, New York CLIENT: Beth Stevens
This new four-bedroom home is located on a half acre waterfront property. The home was essentially rebuilt on the foundations of the previous house, reframing the home with a new SIPS roof structure which provides deep water-facing eaves. The top of the foundation was raised, given the reality of higher storm surges. While the original 8’-0” ceilings remain, a reconfigured plan eliminates some second floor area, creating sectional interest and vertical relief to a predominately linear organization with horizontal emphasis. The newly located entry deposits visitors into the front hall with its curvilinear, cantilevered stair, with a two-story, windowed family gathering space ahead; a straight shot from the front door to Long Island Sound. Photography by: Michael Moran/Otto
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 25
SINGLE FAMILY
CITATION:
Mills-Eastman Residence ARCHITECT: Edward I. Mills + Associates LOCATION: Clinton Corners, New York CLIENT: Mary Jean Eastman +
This year round residence is set on the crest of a hill bounded by ancient stone walls. Wonderful views of surrounding fields and walls are only fully realized upon entering the house.
Photography by: Chris Kendall
The house is a hybrid structure of wood and steel frame. Punched openings isolate independent views, while interior walls are treated as free elements. Every space on the main ‘gallery’ level enjoys views of the open landscape. The second floor is a trapezoidal tube that floats over the rectangular living and master bedroom volumes below.
SINGLE FAMILY
CITATION:
Bug Acres of Woodstock ARCHITECT: CWB Architects LOCATION: Woodstock, New York
This new home in Upstate New York replaces a weekend retreat on the same site. The goal for the new house was to blend with the landscape while heightening the visual and auditory experience of the setting from interior spaces. The large screened porch cantilevers over a stream - its sloped roof helps to focus views of rock outcroppings and amplify sound of the stream. Interior windows frame woodland views. All mechanical systems and lighting are powered by photovoltaic panels.
26 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Photography by: Rachel Stollar
HISTORIC REVITALIZATION
CITATION AWARD: Campbell Residence
ARCHITECT: Keller/Eaton Architects LOCATION: Larchmont, New York CLIENT: Campbell Family
The Campbell Residence has a commanding location at the head of Larchmont Harbor. The stately home was built in the 1860s, and was the Grande Dame of its neighborhood. After the devastating hurricanes of the 1930s and 1940s, the house was rebuilt, but stripped of its details and heritage, until a young family purchased the home, and committed to bring back its Victorian sensibility and charm. With the original plans long lost, the architects pieced together the house via historical records. The house itself provided clues: original stairs were intact; inlaid wood floors and stained glass windows suggested room layouts. Archival photos guided the style and color of exterior shingles and trim. The result is a home reborn, yet adapted to modern living.
Photography by: Peter Krupenye
Photography by: Peter Kurpenye
HISTORIC REVITALIZATION
CITATION AWARD: Hobby Barn
ARCHITECT: Carol Kurth Architecture, PC + Carol Kurth Interiors, LTD LOCATION: Pound Ridge, New York Photography: Albert Vecerka/Esto The project is a spirited renovation and expansion of a Hiram Halle home built in 1880. Fronted on a country road, the street façade respects the home’s historic character, while the rear façade opens to the landscape with modern ribbons of glass. The clients, a celebrated photographer and an avid art lover, wanted a weekend retreat to showcase their art collection and accommodate the needs of their growing children. The design team raised the rooflines, created a dramatic new entry, and developed a second story. Barn materials such as steel, timber, and stone, are composed as modern elements against a sleek glass and steel staircase, and custom lighting. The revitalized space combines the relaxed feel of a country house with the refinement of a modern gallery.
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 27
INSTITUTIONAL
CITATION AWARD: Temple Beth El
ARCHITECT: Alexander Gorlin Architects LOCATION: Chappaqua, New York CLIENT: Temple Beth El of Northern Westchester
Photography by: Durston Saylor
Temple Beth El underwent a renovation and structural addition while preserving the existing design of renowned 20th century architect, Louis Kahn. Built in 1972, the original building is an octagon with a cupola that lets in magical light through 24 square windows. Programmatic challenges included: two competing entrances, classrooms accessible only by walking through the Sanctuary, and an insufficiently sized Social Hall. The architects worked closely with Rabbi Joshua Davidson and Elise Wagner to identify and fulfill the needs of the congregation. The additions include a large social hall, kitchen, classrooms, nursery school, library, bathrooms, an upper courtyard, and a single new entrance. The grand stair in the glass entry leads one up to the Sanctuary level and to the courtyard that organizes the classes and social hall, and is the focal point of the project.
COMMUNITY AWARD: The O’Hara Nature Center
ARCHITECT: Ferguson Malone Architecture LOCATION: Irvington, New York CLIENT: Village of Irvington
28 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
The O’Hara Nature Center is located at the trailhead of the Irvington Woods Park Preserve. Triggered by an offer by Westchester County to purchase the parkland if the village would build a nature center, this project was completed 2012 with the support of a federal grant, a donation from the O’Hara Foundation, the help of many volunteers, and was designed by Ferguson Malone Architecture on a pro bono basis. The center houses classrooms and exhibit spaces, and employs passive approaches to lighting, heating, cooling, and storm water management. With its demonstration gardens and access to trails, the center promotes the enjoyment and exploration of the preserve, as well as sustainable concepts that inspire living in balance with nature. Photography by: Earl Everett Ferguson & Jason Goldman
rld. The ideas presented here are pire others, to help us build alliances an go to the next step. At the end of RESEARCH & how many homes are actually built. DEVELOPMENT: SOLAR TECTIC BUNGALOW
B), is a company set up to help bring ARCHITECT: o might not otherwise benefit from it. Molinelli Architects LOCATION: housing for the Nepalese rural poor Briarcliff Manor, New York alayas. They approached a CLIENT: Ashok Chaudhari, Solar Tectic what kind of house might be onmentally friendly there and what Photography by: Philip Jensen Carter & Michael Molinelli e made. This booklet documents that g a sample building of compressed
s Learned
Solar Tectic Bungalow and Molinelli Architects developed a proto‐type house for Nepal consisting mostly of site fabricated CEB, compressed earth brick, paired with ferro-concrete shells for the roof. To learn more about this technique they built Westchester County’s first compressed earth brick building, a garden shed. Based on these lessons learned they published a booklet about the Solar Tectic Bungalow design and technical information to facilitate economical and sustainable housing in Nepal and elsewhere.
Many rural Nepalese homes are a combination of clay and stone with thatched roofs.
September 8, 2015
Page 2 of 20
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 29
Event Highlights
Soireé 79: The Annual Chapter Celebration
Professional Affiliate Award - Murphy Brothers
Held at Garcia’s at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester On December 7th Chapter members, professional affiliates and public officials gathered to celebrate seventy-nine years of the Chapter’s accomplishments and to celebrate various individuals and companies accomplishments which contributed to the chapter’s success.
Public Official Award - Rob Astorino
Once again, attendees were led on back of house tours of the historic venue. Live music was provided by Patchen and Roberts, providing an atmosphere fitting for lively conversations amongst the attendees throughout the event. As the evening flowed into the awards portion of the evening, Russell Davidson, FAIA, gave an update on some national items and he received a round of applause, when he took the stage, as he had just returned, from Washington DC, from his inauguration as 2016 National President. In addition to the evening’s honorees, George Gaspar, AIA, and Eric Kaeyer, AIA, were both recognized for their service to the chapter as they step down from their current roles. Special recognitions honored during the presentation included:
Chapter Member Award - Ray Beeler, AIA
Public Advocate Award - Carol Kurth, FAIA, LEED AP
• Professional Affiliate Award: Murphy Brothers Contracting • Public Official Award: Rob Astorino Westchester County Executive • Chapter Member Award: Ray Beeler AIA • Public Advocate Award: Carol Kurth FAIA, LEED AP • ARE Scholarship Award: Katie Chevalier Assoc. AIA The evening ended with presenting the second annual ARE Scholarship. Upon accepting her award, Katie Chevalier, shared the exciting news that she has passed all of the ARE exams. The chapter is excited to share in this journey with her. 2016 marks the Chapter’s 80th Anniversary and Soiree ’80 will once again take place at the end of the year to celebrate this milestone. Watch for information coming this summer.
ARE Scholarship Award - Katie Chevalier, Assoc. AIA 30 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 31
32 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
We built a better way to access AIA Contract Documents.
Transform the way you access, edit, and manage design and construction documents and forms with ACD5. • Create, share, and edit over 180 contracts and forms online with a Mac or PC • Get editable contracts as you need them — one at a time, bundles of documents, or unlimited use of the entire AIA portfolio of documents • Easily save and manage your personal custom clauses and templates for future use Find out the benefits of working on your terms at aia.org/contractdocs.
Feature
Solar Tectic Bungalow The First Compressed Earth Brick Building in Westchester County BY MICHAEL MOLINELLI, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP The final shed, photo by Philip Jensen-Carter
At some point on a cold overcast December Saturday, when you are about to pull the lever on the big orange brick machine down with a force of about 300 pounds for the hundredth time that day, you begin to wonder if your idea is ever going to work. The challenge was brought to my office from a client for whom we had done a residential project. The challenge was to design affordable housing in Nepal. At that moment we had no idea how deeply involved we would get into this mission. The result so far is a 10’ x 10’ compressed earth shed sitting in my yard, a book about the lessons we learned, a couple of patents, an AIA Award, and a fledgling organization trying to make the next step happen – build houses in Nepal. Ashok Chaudhari formed Solar -Tectic Bungalow LLC (STB) to help bring solar technology to people who might not otherwise benefit from it. Ashok realized that such technology may require a building designed specifically with his goals in mind. His mother, Karin, seeing a news report was also concerned that too much reliance on concrete might pollute the beautiful rivers and streams of Nepal. She wondered if there wasn't a better way to build eco-friendly. Ashok then set his sights on housing for the Nepalese rural poor in the lush foothills of the Himalayas. He approached me about what kind of house might be economically viable and environmentally friendly there. Before we could design a viable house, we needed to know more about 34 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
Screening the soil (author center, Simal Shretha on right), photo by Philip Jensen-Carter
Above: The brick yard (author on left, Ed Muller in center in blue shirt, photo by Michael Molinelli.
Brick coming out of the machine, photo by Philip Jensen-Carter; Bottom Right: Brick curing, photo by Michael Molinelli
existing local materials and building techniques. Sending me to Nepal for a few months would have been exciting but it wasn’t in the budget. Through happenstance, Ashok met Simal Shrestha, a young Nepalese-born aspiring architect working in the Hudson Valley. Simal provided the expertise we needed. According to Simal, transportation of materials was the largest expense for any building project. The idea was to conceive a building made from local materials as much as possible. The local material being earth only. Simal too had thought that compressed earth brick might be a viable solution. The bulk of the material would be drawn from the site and the labor to produce the material would be local. A family could leverage their soil and labors into the house, saving them money. Compressed earth bricks (CEB) are modular building units that use pressure on soil to create dense blocks. They are made with a machine that uses a lever to reduce the volume of the material in a mold. Ratios on mixes of soil, soil with Portland cement, shapes and compression ratios vary widely. Researching compressed earth brick proved interesting but inadequate for us to create a design that was buildable and economical. There were many practical aspects to building this way that were unclear. For this reason, we thought that building a prototype building would yield all sorts of quantifiable information that
would assist us in the design of an economic house. Conventional fired brick in the United States usually has a compressive strength of 3,000 psi. We would not necessarily need that strength for our building. But since soil composition varied widely, we could not find any information on the ultimate strength of the CEB. We were also missing a realistic estimate of brick production. How large a group was necessary for optimal production? How many could they realistically make in an hour or in a day? How many of those bricks would fail? We needed more data on this to see if the amount of labor the family was to provide was realistic. (We envision a group of prospective home owners sharing labor in a CEB version of a barn raising.) By making the bricks ourselves, we would get a better understanding of these parameters. Once we had the Auram Press 3000 machine delivered, assembled and figured out, the process was relatively simple. Fill the soil mix in the mold while the lever is straight up 90°, smooth the top, and close the lid. With the lid closed, pull the lever down to about 45°, the lid pops off and continue to push the lever down to 0° to extrude the bricks from the mold. To save time during the brick production days, we would have a lot of the
soil pile already screened to remove pebbles and stones. Someone had to mix the soil and cement just before the compression. Someone had to fill the hopper, clean the mold, fill it and close the hood. One or two people had to exert the force to bring the lever down. And then people were needed to remove and stack the bricks. We found it took a minimum of 4 to 7 people to make an effective team. The more people, the easier it is on the workers and the longer the team could work. The act of pulling down the lever to compress the brick was physically demanding. Few could last more than a few minutes, but some did it for the entire day. Strong back, shoulders and extra weight were helpful. We made over 4,000 brick before winter set it. The following spring our mason, Ed Muller of Muller Brothers, assembled the shed. We learned a lot from this process. Our hope is we can move this project forward to build houses in Nepal. The use of CEB is expanding in Africa and Asia. We are sharing our information for free as we think this knowledge might be helpful to inspire people who might help us move forward with our Nepal project. It might also inspire others to continue the project on their own in Nepal or elsewhere.
If you want to get a copy of our booklet: SOLAR TECTIC BUNGALOW Lessons Learned Creating The First Compressed Earth Brick Building in Westchester County, New York contact us at: www.stbungalow.com or www. molinelliarchitects.com.
Ed Muller assembling shed, photo by Michael Molinelli
The final shed, photo by Philip Jensen-Carter
Proudly Supports A.I.A.Westchester+Hudson Valley The final shed, photo by Philip Jensen-Carter 36 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
COMPETITION ASKS ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS TO REIMAGINE A NEW YORK CITY ICON Metals in Construction Magazine Announces a $15k Prize for the Most Innovative and Energy-Efficient Redesign of the Facade of 200 Park Avenue September 21, NEW YORK, NY— Metals in Construction magazine has launched a competition for architects, engineers, students, designers, and others from all over the world to submit their vision for recladding 200 Park Avenue, built a half-century ago as the world’s largest corporate structure, the Pan Am Building (now the MetLife Building). The mandate is to reimagine this New York City icon with a resourceconserving, eco-friendly enclosure—one that creates a highly efficient envelope with the lightness and transparency sought by today’s office workforce while preserving and enhancing the aesthetic of its heritage. Entrants may now register on the competition website, www.metalsinconstruction.org, and the deadline for final submission is February 1, 2016. The magazine will award a $15,000 cash prize to the design judged to exhibit the most innovation, energy efficiency, and aesthetic integrity. The panel of six jurors come from architecture and engineering fields and include some of the best known experts in sustainable design: Ben Tranel, AIA, LEED of Gensler; Areta Pawlynsky, AIA, of Heintges; Billie Faircloth, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, of Kieran Timberlake; Fiona Cousins, PE, LEED AP BD+C, of Arup; Sameer Kumar, AIA, LEED AP, of SHoP; and Hauke Jungjohann of Thornton Tomasetti. The prize will be awarded at a half-day conference at the TimesCenter in New York City on February 26, 2016. The winner and any runners-up will be published in Metals in Construction magazine and its digital platforms. The competition is sponsored by the Ornamental Metal Institute of New York. Recent advances in material technology and parametric design have given architects freedom to create exteriors of almost limitless variation. As a result, the enclosure has become a transformational building element, where recladding a building can give it a new visual identity and radically improve its energy performance in the process. Yet when a project involves recladding one of a city’s most recognized landmarks, preservation often comes at the expense of innovation. Preserving the original identity—not altering it—is foremost in the minds of designers.
“The competition was conceived to explore ways of retrofitting existing facades for high performance when preservation and innovation are competing priorities,” says Gary Higbee, AIA, director of industry development for the Ornamental Metal Institute of New York and editor of Metals in Construction magazine. “The goal of the design challenge is to use this well-known Park Avenue landmark to elicit the possibilities for such alteration and the potential impact on both energy use and architectural legacy.” The competition was inspired by President’s Climate Action Plan and the Architecture 2030 Challenge. Meeting the aggressive goals for energy reduction established by these programs will require energy retrofits of existing building stock on a widespread scale. With this in mind, designers commissioned to replace antiquated facades on notable office towers will need to strike a balance between preserving what is truly architecturally significant and integrating components that can offer higher energy performance. About Metals in Construction magazine Metals in Construction magazine showcases noteworthy projects that feature innovative use of structural steel and architectural metal in New York City’s five boroughs and adjacent Nassau, Suffolk, and, Westchester counties. To see recent issues of the magazine, visit www.ominy.org/publications. About the Ornamental Metal Institute of New York The Ornamental Metal Institute of New York is a not-for-profit association created in 1972 to advance the interests of the architectural, ornamental, and miscellaneous metal industries. In this regard, the Institute sponsors programs to keep architects, engineers, construction managers, and developers abreast of innovations in the use of these materials for architectural applications. www.ominy.org
DESIGN BRIEF Built a half-century ago as the world’s largest corporate structure, the Pan Am Building (now the MetLife Building) at 200 Park Avenue in New York City initially enjoyed little praise in the architectural press. Critics found the massive brutalist structure an assault on Grand Central Terminal and an obstruction to views up and down Park Avenue. Despite this controversial beginning, the building today is firmly in the grip of nostalgia, its location atop a rail hub now the model of urban efficiency and its facade one of the most recognizable in the city. Given this legacy, it is almost understandable that, when a 2001 investigation revealed age-related defects in the facade, the principal objective was to restore it to sound condition. At the time, there was no inclination to alter its widely familiar appearance in order to harness the latest technological advances. But with the call for global energy reduction driving the Architecture 2030 Challenge, a more compelling case for this type of alteration exists today. The goal of the design challenge is to use this well-known Park Avenue landmark to explore the possibilities for such alteration and the potential impact on both energy use and architectural legacy. SPECIFIC DESIGN GUIDELINES Submittals must address the recladding of all exterior wall components of 200 Park Avenue in New York City to reduce the building’s energy consumption. • •
•
The design must demonstrate an understanding of sustainability as well as desirable daylighting and creature comforts for modern, Class A office space. In addition to aesthetics, participants should take into consideration local climate, neighboring buildings, city requirements, efficiency of materials, new technologies, functionality, existing tenancies, and overall constructibility. Participants must demonstrate their approach to the envelope design by conducting standard analyses such as Daylighting and Embodied Carbon/Embodied Environmental Impact. Hygrothermal, heat transfer modeling or bespoke scripting and modeling may also be necessary to communicate a design team’s approach to bringing environmental and ecological considerations to bear on their design.
A ca. 1965 view of the Pan Am building and its podium. Photo found at ephemeralnewyork.wordpress.com
BUILDING DATA For the purposes of this design challenge, the dimensions of 200 Park Avenue shall be as follows: Construction Type: Steel frame with concrete panelized exteriors Building Height: 808 feet
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Number of Stories: 58
Registration and submission are handled completely through www.metalsinconstruction. org. The process is composed of three parts:
Building Area: 3,000,000 square feet
•
Entrant Info – Contact information of the individual or team submitting. This will not be shared with judges and is only for contact purposes.
Number of Stories (Podium): 8
•
Project Description – A series of descriptive points related to the design and process of the submission.
•
Visualization Components – Up to 10 pages to represent the proposal. This attachment should be one (1) multi-page PDF file (max. 10 pages) formatted at 11”x17” (ledger) and can include supporting backup data, calculations, and commentary to supplement the images. Do not link or embed objects.
PRIZE One grand prize of $15,000 to be awarded at a half-day conference in New York City on February 26, 2016. The winner and any runners-up will be published in Metals in Construction magazine and its digital platforms. See Competition Rules (http://metalsinconstruction.org/competition-rules/) and the F.A.Q. page (http:// metalsinconstruction.org/faq/) for more information.
Number of Stories (Tower): 50 Typical Podium Floor Area: 90,000 square feet Typical Tower Floor Area: 40,000 square feet Typical Story Height: 13 feet, 6 inches Any discrepancy between the dimensions listed above and the actual dimensions of 200 Park Avenue are immaterial to the competition and will not influence the judging.
Feature
Bio-synergistic Design; A Name for An Opportunity BY JODI SMITS ANDERSON, AIA, LEED AP BD+C DIRECTOR OF SUSTAINABLE PROGRAMS AT DASNY Biomimicry - burrs bring us velcro
“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” An oft-quoted phrase from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, but in a fast world of near-instant communications, many a concept has been poorly defined in a title, and because of this misstep, failed to reach its anticipated potential. My brain hears a name and conjures clear pictures relationships, colors and attributes. I have spent some time lately thinking about labels, triggered by a recent and growing interest in natural influences in architecture (pun intended). Last week I attended a wonderful presentation on Biophilia, hosted by Urban
Green Council in NYC. The evening included some networking, basics on biophilic design as defined by Terrapin Bright Green in their “14 Patterns of Biophilia” publication, and case studies of some gorgeous buildings that included aspects of nature, references of nature or spaces eliciting the scope of nature. Some of the presentation included defining a few of the “bio” terms in modern design work. I will lay these out for you below, as it is important as background info and inspiring to see how often we are not only allowing nature to inform us (finally) but how often we seek those connections actively to inform our work as architects,
Cover of Terrapin Bright Green’s excellent publicaton on Biophilia
BIOMIMICRY – Using our innovative spirit to mimic nature’s successes. This means doing things such as adding nubs on wind turbine blades to ease passage through air and reduce drag, just like the nubs on a whale’s fin. Understanding that burrs stick to things, so, voila: Velcro. These use totally different materials and applications, but involve a transfer of principles. BIO-REMEDIATION – Using flora or fauna to solve toxic issues. For example, some flowers will uptake lead from the soil, reducing the lead content in the soil. Oysters are another excellent example and are being farmed specifically in some places to improve water quality and clarity. BIOPHILIA – Referencing nature in several different ways to create connection between humans and nature. There are three categories defined by Terrapin Bright Green: Nature in the Space (plants, animals, water), Nature of the Space (shelter, view, etc.) and Natural Analogues (patterns or visuals reflecting nature). Check out “The 14 Patterns of Biophilia” available free at Terrapin Bright Green’s website. The term “biophilia” literally means “love of life or living systems” and was first known in E.O. Wilson’s book, Biophilia, published in 1984. BIO-UTILIZATION – Using nature’s systems to create/support higher performing systems. The paramount example is green infrastructure practices, such as vegetative roofs and pervious paving. Here is a link to excellent information on successful Green Infrastructure work in Syracuse. Created reefs also apply here as they mimic the natural soft barriers that help to mitigate storm surge damage.
40 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
engineers, product designer and business owners. Terrapin Bright Green used the term “bio-inspired” as an umbrella term for all of these concepts. I’ve been in a mental funk ever since I heard this. I, with absolute respect to TerrapinBG, don’t feel this term has the right connotation to indicate the true power of the bio-realm in design. The term “bio-inspired” means to me that the architecture is being shaped or influenced by the natural references and inputs and inclusion. But I saw in the case studies presented that nature was also being influenced and shaped by the built form. In fact, the inclusion of nature does not only celebrate nature, but manages to elevate the beauty and importance of the construction and architecture, and bring it into more prominent focus. Most basically, they provide frames of view for each other. In a deeper sense, they inform the choices by the intelligent interplay off of their respective existing attributes. It’s like a good cheese together with an appropriate wine – neither stays the same and both are bolstered by the pairing. Or as in a good marriage – each partner is reflected in the actions and thoughts of the other and even the struggles that shift the balance can reveal strength and beauty in the connection. So we need a term that indicates the symbiotic relationship of the pairing. I’ve been playing with several labels to come to one that may connote
these synergies, because I am worried that by using the term bio-inspired we may miss out on the core benefits of including nature in our design process. In fact, the process itself is better when inspired by natural approaches and allowing organic development of goals. We need to understand the experiential design, the sculptural, illustrative design AND the functional design aspects in weaving nature and built form together if we will excel. Not just bring nature in, but design with it. Not just design a building but let the forms inform us as to what natural patterns and approaches will succeed. Bio-inspired feels too one-sided to me. I really like bio-interplay, but a couple of serious folks told me this is too light a term and does not reflect the importance of the disciplines included. Bio-interdependence is probably the closest in definition to what I wish to illuminate, but is unwieldy and pedantic. We also can use bio-connection (seems like an on-line match site), bio-fusion (maybe to apply to food inspirations?) or bio-informed… several of my cohorts have also petitioned that “bio” is overused, but I can’t seem to get past that. Nature or eco or green are all terms that would certainly undersell. The term that resonates with me is bio-synergy. Synergy means “the interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual elements,
Above: Le Corbusier’s Modular Man Left: Fiterman Hall at BMCC (a DASNY project) illustrating views, daylight and images of nature Article reprinted with author’s permission from 2bgreener.com.
contributions, etc.” (dictionary.com) it also means “the cooperative action or two or more muscles or nerves, or the like”. This is just about perfect to encompass our growing understanding of the interactions between natural and build environments. It goes a long way to clarifying that it is not the overlay of one onto the other, but the awareness and active design with our complete environment that will resonate in our improved health, function, joy, and resource use. Bio-synergistic design practices include all facets of working with nature, including those listed above. It will also flex and evolve to include more eastern design sensibilities, of which I know little, such as Feng Shui, that build upon compass points and water flow to inform occupant health, happiness and future prosperity. We can also include “grown” building materials as that industry gains ground, like the newest in self-repairing concrete being developed in the Netherlands.Here is a recent news piece on this amazing innovation. Basically any design process or result that weaves nature and built forms together for greater mutual success. What drove me to find this umbrella label, bio-synergy, is my realization that I cannot study just one piece of this incredibly powerful naturein-design puzzle. I have always been pulled to include earth, air, fire and water in my life and in the spaces I create. I am fascinated with the Fibonacci sequence and the Golden Ratio and the modular man, each mathematically striving to understand nature’s influences. Designing with nature exemplifies what I have always wanted the profession of architecture to be: a seeking of best practices, an understanding that it is not the building and nature, but the buildings in nature and nature in the buildings. These are inseparable. Our environment is all of it, what is created by us and what is gifted to us, and we are stronger and better when we work as the whole and work toward biosynergistic goals. This is one of the many keys to improving our environment. For me, the emerging and solidifying respect for nature and need to learn from her is exciting and powerful and healing all at once. Now, we just need a logo!
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 41
January Events
February Events Kick off January Chapter Meeting 26
Mardi Gras February 9 Join your Emerging Professionals as they host a social event for the entire chapter and celebrate Mardi Gras
Erika Krieger will present code information/ updates pertinent to Architects
26
January Chapter Meeting IBM Learning Center 20 Old Post Road Armonk, NY 5:30 - 9:00 pm
9 Tuesday Mardi Gras Social Event Growlers Beer Bistro 25 Main Street, Tuckahoe, NY Time 6:30 pm
23-25
Grassroots Detroit
Proudly Supports A.I.A.Westchester+Hudson Valley Proudly Supports A.I.A.Westchester+Hudson Valley
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Carrie Bartucca Architectural Specification’s Representative Cell: 860-305-2599 Email: cbartucca@michaelhalebian.com
42 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
March Events
April Events Design Expo March 14
Breakfast Seminar April 21
Join us for a full day of CES credits and a chance to visit the expo floor where vendors will have their newest products on display.
Come earn CES in the northern part of our chapter
14 Monday
Design Expo-Progressions Tarrytown Marriott Tarrytown, NY CEU Classes 12:00 pm-9:00 pm Expo Floor 4:00-8:00 pm
31 Thursday Breakfast Seminar Topic:TBD 1161 Little Britain Road New Windsor, NY 8:00 - 9:30 am
21 Thursday
Breakfast Seminar Topic:TBD 1161 Little Britain Road New Windsor, NY 8:00 - 9:30 am
AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley would like to thank all of their Annual Ad sponsors for this year: Best Plumbing Cuono Engineering Institute for Design Professionals Prosurance Redeker Group The Ornamental Metal Institute of NY The Steel Institute of NY Ad Space Available Visit our website www.aiawhv.org for rates and specifications Contact Valerie Brown or Jaclyn Tyler for any questions
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 43
Print issues are available for order through the Chapter office. Single copy price $10. Contact Valerie Brown at chapteroffice@aiawhv.org to place your order.
S U L P h c r A ArchPLUS A PUBLICATION
TE OF ARCHITECTS
ICAN INSTITU
OF THE AMER
WESTCHESTER
Y CHAPTER
+ HUDSON VALLE
A PUBLICATION
TE OF ARCHITECTS
ICAN INSTITU
OF THE AMER
WESTCHESTER
ON
#PRESERVAT
ARCHITECTS
CATE S ADICVO ITECTTHE FUTURE ARCHFESSI PUBL + THE ON,
FOR THE PRO
MENTORING OF-POD SOLAR ROON A ROOF
SUSTAINABLE
WITH EMERGING
LS
PROFESSIONA
GRAMS TION
E A TRAIN STA
STUDENTS SAV
BOWLING
OF THE FUTURE
HITECTS PRO
YOUNG ARC
LIVING
Y CHAPTER
+ HUDSON VALLE
$10.00
ArchPLUS ER 2014
NO. 3 | SUMM VOLUME 1 |
en, NY : nt Center, Gosh ty Governme igg, 1970 Orange CounBruce Cunningham Werdn-ppms ca-03519
cover image
ArchPLUS A PUBLICATION
TE OF ARCHITECTS
ICAN INSTITU
OF THE AMER
WESTCHESTER
by: Photograph Congress LC-DIG the Library of Courtesy of
VOLUME 1 |
G 2014
NO. 2 | SPRIN
A PUBLICATION
TE OF ARCHITECTS
ICAN INSTITU
OF THE AMER
WESTCHESTER
Y CHAPTER
+ HUDSON VALLE
places we share
Y CHAPTER
+ HUDSON VALLE
ic spaces
our favorite publ
ON ISSUE THE CONSTRUCTI
CING FUN SHORING BRA ED FRAMING ADVANC IALS LESS MATER S BETTER RESULT
Design EXPO EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
ANY TO ALBTHE LAW AIA GOES LOBBY DAY & SSIONS PROGRE EXPO SUCCESS AN
T DESIGN COPYCA CLAIM A COPYRIGHT
AVOIDING
$10.00 VOLUME 2 |
cover photo: LLED AT THE BASE CAPS ARE INSTA BRIDGE PRECAST PILE TAPPAN ZEE Thruway Authority OF THE NEW York State
Photograph
courtesty of
G 2015
NO. 2 | SPRIN
New
$10.00 VOLUME 1 |
NO. 4 | FALL
2014
Don’t wait - Get your printed version today
“ ` Wood Designe `
Manhattan Office
390 Broadway 4th Fl. New York, NY 10013 T. 917 780 8922 F. 212 229 0538 michael@woodesigne.com www.woodesigne.com
Westchester Shop
5 John Walsh Boulevard Peekskill, NY 10566 T. 914 736 1058 F. 212 229 0538 info@woodesigne.com www.woodesigne.com
European Craftsman blending wood and design into each project
All Custom Woodwork
Cabinetry | Kitchens | Baths | Closets | Doors | Wall Units Wood Designe is an annual sponsor for AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley’s January Codes Meeting and one of our largest regional custom wood fabrication shops. AIA WHV recognizes Wood Designe as regional sustainable resource for large and small scale custom wood millwork projects Photo Credit Peter Krupenye Photography
LOOKING 2006 BACK A GLIMPSE OF AIAWHV
2006
DESIGN AWARDS
DESIGN AWARDS
2006
First Honor Awards
DESIGN AWARDS
First Honor Awards
Pound Ridge Guest House CATEGORY: SINGLE Category: Single Family Residential FAMILY RESIDENTIAL Kaehler-Moore Architects Longchamp SOHO Category: Commercial / Corporate Atmosphere Design Group
(ABOVE)
PROJECT: POUND RIDGE GUEST HOUSE ARCHITECT: KAEHLER-MOORE ARCHITECTS
CATEGORY: COMMERCIAL/ CORPORATE
Bet Torah Synagogue Category: Institutional Perkins Eastman 46 ArchPLUS Winter 2016
PROJECT: LONGCHAMP SOHO Willow Towers Assisted Living ARCHITECT: Category: Multi-Family Residential ATMOSPHERE DESIGN GROUP
Longchamp SOHO Category: Commercial / Corporate
Perkins Eastman
Category: Commercial / Corporate Atmosphere Design Group CATEGORY: INSTITUTIONAL PROJECT: BET TORAH SYNAGOGUE ARCHITECT: PERKINS EASTMAN
Bet Torah Synagogue Category: Institutional CATEGORY: INSTITUTIONAL Perkins Eastman
W C P
PROJECT: Bet Torah Synagogue JOHN HAY HIGH SCHOOL Category: Institutional ARCHITECT: KAEYER, GARMENT & DAVIDSON ARCHITECTS Perkins Eastman
T C M
John Jay High School Category: Institutional Kaeyer, Garment & Davidson Architects & Engineers, PC
John Jay High School
Winter 2016 ArchPLUS 47