CMS Architecture

FINE DINING

CMS Architecture

With designs around the world, founder Chris Smith brings his love of food and cooking to the architecture world, and has created a niche in the architectural industry.

NEOCLASSICAL

John Laffey

Neoclassical design meets the high-end residential market of Long Island's East End, resulting in the area's most breathtaking homes.

TECH足SAVVY

GMK Architecture

Bridging technology with the beauty of the great outdoors, this firm is focused on "bringing down the curtain" between the architect and the client.

ARCHITECTURE LEADERS TODAY

T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R C A P TA I N S O F I N D U S T RY www.architectureleaderstoday.com

Volume I Spring 2011 $24.95 USD $26.30 CAN

ARCHITECTURE LEADERS TODAY T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R C A P TA I N S O F I N D U S T RY www.architectureleaderstoday.com

Bickford & Company | 69 BUILDING WITH PERSONAL TOUCH Scott Bickford, founder and principal of R.S. Bickford & Company approaches each project with a personal touch and believes that the relationships built with residential clients produce more rewarding and meaningful projects.

on the cover

09 Letters

CMS Architecture

10 Hot Products Directory

Charlie Palmer Restaraunt inside the South Coast Plaza Bloomingdales. Drawing upon wine as the design inspiration, the restaurant flooring is crafted from reclaimed wine barrels, with the burnished patina of the wood enhanced by vintage leather chair coverings in warm tones to create a rustic but sophisticated environment. Photo by Doug Gifford.

132 Advertiser Index

06 Editor’s Note

NORTHEAST

18 The Buchholz Architectural Group John Buchholz and his firm have their feet planted in both the world of architecture and construction,) and the firm’s broad portfolio has brought a new, sustainable edge to the New York Tri-State area.

24 SilverLining Interiors T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R C A P TA I N S O F I N D U S T RY

ARCHITECTURE LEADERS TODAY

Editor-in-Chief Todd Weaver Editor Diana Doyle Executive Editor Jonathan Mack Assistant Editor Joseph Orange Creative Director Maria J. Owens Art Director Anthony Walker Director of Advertising Julian Vu Production Coordinator Jason Rone Asst. Production Coordinator Elizabeth Macks Photography Editor Ian Palmer Video Director Susan Maybach Editorial Director Kate Darling Editorial Production Joel Cornell Copy Editor Chelsea Muth Asst. Copy Editor Paige Hill Content Directors Brandon McBride (National), Lisa Dowty (SW), Juan Stewart (NE), Mike Rodgers (W), Cyndel Ponce (Intl) Vendor Relations Director Diana Stephens Vendor Relations Eric Miller, Steve Peters Advertising Sales Director Peter Jostens Advertising Sales Coordinator Patricia O’Brien Advertising Sales Moe Kazemi, David Levi, Tom Nichols, James Banks Publisher Steve Reed Circulation/Reprints Anne Brewer oZ WORLD MEDIA, LLC 1100 H Street NW, Suite M Washington D.C. 20005 www.architectureleaderstoday.com Architecture Leaders Today is an international quarterly B2B trade journal that services the architecture industry in design/ build, education and healthcare architecture, interior design, and residential and commercial sectors. ALT has a readership of 200,000 C-Level executives within the architecture industry.

We do not accept subscription requests from the general public, however an abbreviated version is available on our website.

4 Spring 2011

Inspired by his father, who worked tirelessly on the family’s 19th century townhome, Joshua Wiener, founder and president of SilverLining, brings the same care and quality to every project.

31 Homsey Architects From historic to commercial to educational, Eldon Homsey brings his years of experience to every project, providing a little more than his competition. Today, Homsey Architects, Inc. tackles hundreds of projects of all sizes, uses and sectors.

EDUCATIONAL

32 The Gund Partnership Since its founding in 1971 The Gund Partnership has become renowned for their visual and performing arts facilities on campuses and are passionate about how artistic fostering helps strengthen the world.

CUSTOM HOMES

36 John Laffey Architects At home in the high-end custom residential market of Long Island’s East End, neoclassical architect John Laffey enjoys creating some of the areas most breathtaking dream homes.

GREEN BUILDING

52 RADA Architects This Chicago-based but internationally influenced firm focuses on eco-friendly buildings. Rada Doytcheva, principal, aims to bring her Bulgarian heritage to college campuses throughout the Midwest.

54 Northeast Regional Marketplace WEST LANDSCAPE

60 PleinAire Design Group Along a patch of beautiful central California coastline, landscape designer Kevin Small, works his green magic by creating wondrous and whimsical landscapes with an eco-friendly touch.

62 West Regional Marketplace

INTERNATIONAL

118 Pieri & Associates Architect For this San Juan-based firm, ecological preservation and nothing short of LEED-Gold certifications for their designs are the top priority.

124 CMS Architecture & Design With a love for food and passion for design, CMS Architecture founder, Chris Smith, developed his niche in the industry and today his designs can be found around the world.

MIDWEST LANDSCAPE

64 Meisner + Associates / Land Vision The multi-skilled staff at Meisner + Associates / Land Vision has been a leading landscape architecture and planning firm in the greater Cincinnati area since 1979 and designed the first LEED-Platinum project in Ohio.

CUSTOM HOMES

PRODUCTS & SERVICES PLASTERING

30 Boro Plastering Founded in 1937, Boro Plastering is built on a foundation of doing nothing but the finest in first-class, high-quality residential plastering work. Their resume, which boasts London's Sothebys and John Lennon, proves they've stayed on-target.

67 R.S. Bickford & Company

POOL AND SPA

For 30 years this company has been dedicated to the values many architects only talk about; their personal journey to the heart of every project has kept clients calling throughout hard economic times.

48 SRK Pools

74 GMK Architecture With technology at their fingertips and the beauty of the great outdoors as their inspiration, this Wisconsin-based firm focuses on “bringing down the curtain” between the architect and the client.

85 Midwest Regional Marketplace SOUTH

86 WYK Architects Established in 1973, WYK Associates, Inc. provides thoughtful and innovative solutions for a broad range of projects, ranging from educational and commercial to government and healthcare.

Steve Kenny, owner of the Long Island-based company SRK pools, is an expert on water and water chemistry. With state-of-the-art designs and technology, Kenny aims to bring safer, healthier and more cost-effective methods of pool water treatment to the U.S.

AQUARIUMS

74 Custom Aquariums by Design Whether its a simple fish tank or a state-of-the-art specialty installation, Custom Aquariums by Design offers their clients the beauty and magic of the ocean that adds that little extra something to any home or office.

HVAC PRODUCTS

82 Don Stevens, Inc. For nearly half a century, Don Stevens, Inc. has been providing reliable, quality distribution services throughout the Northeast and Midwest.

92 SDS Architecture

CONSTRUCTION

SDS Architecture finds a role in education while bringing a unique and valuable blend of expertise to its customers.

94 Reeder Construction

GOVERNMENT

96 Turner, Ramirez & Associates With a deep history of military experience, the Corpus Christie-based firm of Turner, Ramirez & Associates has diversified over the years to include a range of government and religious projects as well.

HOSPITALITY

102 LLW Architects Inner-city revitalization and preservation planning are at the heart of this Texas-based firm, which focuses on the preservation and enhancement of significant and unique structures.

HISTORIC

108 Bender & Associates Architects Specializing in historic preservation, Bert Bender and his firm have been breathing new life into some of the Florida Keys' most beautiful buildings for over 35 years.

114 South Regional Marketplace

Beginning his career as a framing carpenter Wes Reeder applied his construction experience and founded Reeder Construction, a company always preceded by its reputation for honest, quality work, done with the heartfelt dedication to doing the best work possible.

101 Turner & Townsend This worldwide company, with 63 offices, is poised to optimize business and operations for clients within any sector, offering professional cost and asset control, consultant and project management services.

MANUFACTURING

123 Glasstra Aluminum, Inc. With 30 years of experience, Glasstra has grown into Puerto Rico’s leading aluminum and glass manufacturer and installation specialist, completing a variety of diverse and breathtaking projects.

SPECIALTY FURNISHING

130 Andreu World America Conducting business in 70 countries and with their primary U.S. office in Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, Andreu World sources wood from their own forest in Ukraine to manufacture their products. Today, the company is still family owned and operated with 300 employees globally.

Architecture Leaders Today 5

editor’s note

A little something to go on.

It’s a small world, architecture. In just this spring issue of ALT, many of our subjects have crossed professional paths in one way or another. To start, you’ll read about a model-turned-architect who was schooled by former colleagues of the late Charles Gwathmey, whos partner Robert Siegel is also featured. This individual, as well as another featured architect, have both worked on various projects for Kate Spade; the latter recently completed a project at Beekman Place, which is featured again in a separate feature. In a different vein, you’ll read about one architect’s criticism of the Design Build Institute of America, which happens to be headquartered in the same building as ALT publisher, oZ World Media.

Intriguing how interconnected industry leaders can be, yet while all are successful in their own right, having such varying approaches to a common goal. Here are some of the most notable quotes from this issue:

“What we all need to understand is that good design takes many forms. I’m tired of hearing people say, ‘I don’t like it, it’s contemporary, or Spanish, or rustic, or Old World.’ Instead they should be asking, ‘was it well executed?’”

D.S. Ewing

in the language of a businessman then you can get them interested in green building. If you go the wrong way you won’t even get to bat. And the environment isn’t going to get better unless business is engaged.”

Pieri & Associates

“All architects are trained to be generalists and problem solvers. I think we’re best when we keep our pencils sharp and our scope broad… The hardest client to deal with is the one who cannot tell you what he wants.”

Helman Sechrist

"Success is not just about changing what professionals know, but knowing how to rely on the basic, ageless principles of good planning and adapting them to today’s world. Sun, wind, rain, snow, oceans, rivers, flora, fauna and earth are still with us today. Humans will always need to consider these basics and plan ahead. A brighter future will be one that relies more on conserving natural resources and reducing energy use.

Future growth, development and the success of landscape architecture will be with those who listen to the land best.”

Meisner + Associates

“There are a lot of hotel architects out there who do what we do all day long. It’s not rocket science.”

LLW

“If you design a building to be energy efficient and to produce its own energy, it’s much better than greenwashing with recycled windows or reclaimed wood flooring. While using sustainable materials is important, in the end it’s a focus on energy.”

Zach | de Vito

“Many of my colleagues ask how I put up with residential clients, like a couple or family who disagree concerning one infinitesimal detail or another. I’ll turn around and wonder how they work with conglomerates behind walls of red tape.”

Bickford & Co “Many clients are reducing the hierarchy within offices. There are still basic work stations, but those are evolving. Nobody wants to work in the infamous cube.”

McMahon

“Necessity is the mother of invention. And with a diverse array of project types, the more eccentric and difficult the clients’ problems are, the more we are driven to find the highest quality solution, which gives our clients a much better building at the end of the day.”

LNB

“When I graduated from Howard, we were taught to think that if young black architects wanted survival, we had to be twice as good as our white counterparts. There were no intrinsic racial element to this; it was entirely factual.”

J. A. Matthews

“Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and Venice are like facets of someone’s delirious mind. There is more freedom in L.A. to explore and experiment, while New York is more conservative.”

STUDIOHOWE “I don’t want to design a building that’s bad for the environment. Architects are supposed to be optimistic and positive people…. If you talk

TODD WEAVER editor@ozworldmedia.com

william coleson

anne brouilette

felicia willis

rebecca rodriguez

joel cornell

marylyn simpson

joan tupponce

amelia doenlen

CONTRIBUTORS

William graduated from the University of Florida with a B.A. in Journalism and Political Science. He writes for a variety of trade publications in the U.S. and abroad.

Joel uses his background in technical writing to translate complex jargon into vivid narratives. Past works include projects with the State Department, the DOD, World Bank and many retail giants.

6 Architecture Leaders Today

Anne’s writing experiences have taken her places that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.

With a B.A in Creative Writing from Tulane University, Anne freelances for a variety of publications.

With a diverse background in B2B magazine writing, ranging from framing to fashion, Marylyn brings a unique perspective to Industry Leaders Today. Her assignments have taken her everywhere, including New York Fashion Week

Based in Atlanta, Felicia is a freelancer.

A University of Maryland graduate, she has contributed to several magazines including Today’s Chemist at Work.

Joan’s experiences as a writer have taken her places that wouldn’t have been possible in other careers. Her success is evident in the awards and recognitions her writing has received.

Rebecca enjoys a career of writing about critical issues and prominent business leaders of our time. Her work has been recognized both locally and nationally.

Amelia earned both a B.S. in journalism and anthropology from the University of Texas. Currently based in London, she writes for a variety of print and online publications both in Europe and the U.S.

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hot products

we scoured the Energy, Tech, building and design markets to bring you our favorite new products to line your projects .

1

tetrad mega

by Brave Space Design http://www.bravespacedesign.com/

These Brooklyn-based designers are hitting home with that bit of inner nerd in all of us. These environmentally sustainable, green-built shelves come block by block, so you can customize your own. They’re also offered in colored or bamboo finishes and in large and small sizes.

The key detail to these 11-inch deep shelves is their beveled edges. They give the piece an “unreal” optical quality, taking your shelves beyond the realm of practicality and into art. Reversible and interchangeable, these sturdy blocks will provide for endless stacking configurations and a lifetime of enjoyment.

10 Spring 2011

hot products

floring that fits by flor http://www.flor.com

Not only can you get these carpet tiles in any color or pattern but Flor’s modular square carpet system can be arranged in any way that suits your space, making the options endless and available for your ever-changing design needs. And, with some of the lowest VOC emissions in the residential industry, as well as using varying degrees of recycled materials you can feel good about using this product!

2 over the range

by KOBE http://www.koberangehoods.com/

The sleak, stainless-steel body and the softly curving glass canopy make this wall-mounted, circulating hood an attractive addition to any kitchen. Not only is it pretty, but its quiet too.

Operating at a reduced sound level than most other kitchen hoods, you will be able to cook in peace.

Architecture Leaders Today 11

hot products

4

crazy cool windows

by GlassX http://www.glassx.ch/

Using high-tech salt-hydrate phase change material (PCM), this Swissmade window glaze deflects high-angle sunlight and keeps your rooms cool.

The PCM technology stores energy generated from the sun that builds up on the exterior of the window and reuses it to either heat or cool the inside of the building. Used in Europe for the past decade, this cool, new, hyper-efficient product is soon to make its debut in North America.

12 Spring 2011

hot products

drip, drop by canlis glass http://www.canlisglass.com/

5

This organic blown glass raindrop chanelier is one of the many artfully designed and beautifully crafted glass works by Jean-Pierre Canlis.

This 8-piece chandelier is a dramatic piece for any room. Hanging from a 36” round metal base, the raindrops are designed to be illuminated from the exterior providing the brightest rain you’ve ever seen.

6

swing into spring by tempachair www.tempachair.com/heated-hammock.html

Maybe its been a really long winter... but we think this is the greatest product ever! Now, you can extend your outdoor enjoyment to days and nights when it’s a little chillier than normal to relax in a hammock. With carbon fiber heating elements sewn into the comfortable quilted fabric that warms from the shoulder to lower back, you can stay cozy day and night.

This snazzy hammock fits two people and the battery operated thermostat allows for 3 different warmth settings.

Architecture Leaders Today 13

hot products

7 baby, light my fire

designed by Paul Cohen manufactured by EcoSmart Fire http://www.ecosmartfire.com/en/home

Revolutionizing the world of fireplace design, EcoSmart creates beautiful, contemporary fireplaces designed with a futuristic appeal to complement your contemporary decor. The best part? These denatured ethanol burning fireplaces are ventless, allowing for use in just about any space.

14 Spring 2011

hot products

8 staff pick!

don’t throw stones

by SolTech http://www.soltechenergy.com/en/

After years of research, the Swiss company SolTech Energy developed these new, sleek and modern passive solar glass roofing tiles using their patented solar thermal light absorption technology. The glass tiles not only look amazing atop your home but have a longer life expectancy than conventional clay or concrete roofing materials. The system is designed to be integrated into the house’s existing energy system whether it is ground source heat pump, air heat pump, pellet boiler, oil boiler or electric boiler.

Architecture Leaders Today 15

hot products

9 paper craze

by Graham and Brown http://www.grahambrown.com

Bound to strike your fancy no matter your taste or style, Graham and Brown is on a mission to revive the world’s love of patterns. From simple elegance to funky florals to whimsical color schemes, their newest collections bring you affordable designer wallpaper that will make you never want to leave your home again.

16 Spring 2011

NORTHE A ST

INSIDE: THE BUCHHOLZ ARCHITECTURAL GROUP, HOMSEY ARCHITECTS, THE GUND PARTNERSHIP, JOHN LAFFEY ARCHITECTS, SRK POOLS, SILVERLINING INTERIORS, BORO PLASTERING, RADA ARCHITECTS

The William Oxley Thompson Memorial Library, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.

Photo courtesy of The Gund Partnership

northeast

18 Spring 2011

| architecture

architecture

| northeast

New York’s Most Comprehensive Small Firm THE BUCHHOLZ ARCHITECTURAL GROUP OFFERS AN ASTONISHINGLY WIDE ARRAY OF SERVICES, ALL BACKED BY DECADES OF EXPERIENCE IN A PLETHORA OF SPECIALIZED FIELDS.

by Joel Cornell

John Buchholz has his feet firmly planted in both the world of architecture and the world of construction. This puts the founder, owner and principal architect of The Buchholz Architectural Group, P.C. in a unique position for their clients. Buchholz’s wealth of experience and knowledge has made him a favorite amongst local contractors and construction specialists alike. The firm’s broad portfolio, in addition to Buchholz’s talent and dexterity, has brought a new, sustainable edge to the New York Tri-State area.

“My father had a background in design as the director of design and engineering for the New York City Department of Corrections,” Buchholz said. “I grew up around architecture, construction and design from my earliest memories on, and those aesthetics and ideals were instilled in me in ways that would later formulate my career. As a teenager, I spent weekends with my father building additions andrenovating kitchens and bathrooms for houses in our neighborhood. I learned to use my hands very early on.”

With New York’s Tri-State area as the epicenter of culture, knowledge and resource, Buchholz was able to attend a local technical high school that had a focus on design and architecture. After graduating, he paid his own way through studies at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn by working various construction jobs.

In working as a laborer, a carpenter’s helper, a plumber’s helper and an electrician’s helper, Buchholz collected a useful assortment of skills.

“Pratt Institute gave me a great foundational education in design,” Buchholz said. “Still, it was severely lacking the education that I

think today’s architects truly need, concerning the construction industry. Once I graduated from Pratt, I immediately went to work for a construction company as a construction supervisor managing two hundred multidisciplined full time staff.”

Eight years later, the bottom of the economy fell out. Buchholz left the construction company and decided it was time to finally put his architectural background to use and founded The Buchholz Architectural Group in 1996.

Unlike many architecture firms that take years to develop their sense of self, The Buchholz Architectural Group offered a unique array of services from the very start. The most notable difference from their competitors was their involvement in total construction management services.

“Because of my construction background, the comprehensive array of services that we offer allow clients to enjoy a successful project from beginning to end are never required to seek any necessary services elsewhere,” Buchholz said. “Construction companies and subcontractors we work with really appreciate an architect that actually knows how to put together those elusive and usually unforeseen details that give them the best source material from which they can begin building a project.

We always assemble a detailed set of working drawings, particularly in terms of putting a building together, which our clients have come to appreciate.”

The Buchholz Architectural Group’s scope of services truly shines when they get involved on a project in its earliest conceptual stages.

Several of the firm’s oldest clients get them

involved in the earlier stages of every project, such as reviewing potential sites based on the client’s desires, their intended use and their needs, as opposed to their wants.

Through the preliminary design and construction phases, Buchholz and his highly qualified staff of five designers, architects and LEED accredited professionals endeavor to bring every detail of a project, from wayfinding signage to interior design and construction management services, under one roof. Many times, however, clients opt to work with another specialist or subcontractor on certain aspects of a project , oftentimes due to past relationships. Yet again, Buchholz’s experiences within construction and his relationships with some of the area’s most talented specialists and subcontractors mean that, for the majority of the time, The Buchholz Architectural Group is working in extremely familiar territory.

“Typically, the client type that we find are most frequently attracted to our style of design and project management are in the commercial sector,” Buchholz said. “We offer a wider variety of services to accommodate the variety of clients that we receive. We’ve done numerous bank and brokerage offices, so we’re keenly aware of the nuances involved in those sectors. We have been privileged to have worked on many high-end office interior projects, and in the past decade really have come to specialize in retail stores and centers, but that world has been largely downsized over the past few years.

“Sustainable design ideas are always paraTHIS SPREAD: John Buchholz, owner and founder.

Architecture Leaders Today 19

northeast

20 Spring 2011

| architecture

THIS SPREAD: A chic bar and bistro where creamy stone floors and black leather appointments contrast the wood furnishings to create a harmonious balance.

northeast

| architecture

PHELPS CONSTRUCTION GROUP Phelps Construction Group adheres to a basic concept that has proven, over time, to be the key to success in the construction industry.

Phelps Construction creates and maintains a safe, positive working environment that enables them to deliver the highest quality construction services to clients while building long-term relationships with project owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors and suppliers.

Combining a teamwork approach with quality workmanship, Phelps completes projects on time and on budget to the satisfaction of owners and architects. Phelps Construction Group will provide pre-construction, general contracting and construction management services to meet all of a client’s construction needs from the initial conceptual budget through completion and maintenance of the new facility.

Located in northern New Jersey, Phelps Construction Group is ideally positioned to service New Jersey, southern New York and eastern Pennsylvania along with the entire northeast. The executive management team is comprised of individuals with extensive experience in all aspects of the construction industry. In addition, Phelps Construction Group has managed all types of construction projects ranging from small renovations to large, complex multimillion dollar projects for some of the most prestigious and demanding clients. For more information, please visit www. phelpsconstructiongroup.com 22 Spring 2011

mount to us. In dealing with commercial clients, for whom business comes before all else, we’ve found that many of these clients would like some level of LEED Certification, but they have to consider their budget and what elements of design come first. Trying to get clients to take on the additional cost for LEED Certification has been difficult, but we continually endeavor to educate them on why sustainable design is the best solution at all times, despite the increase in the upfront costs.”

PNC Bank, one of The Buchholz Architectural Group’s many repeat clients, is one who holds the firm to a higher standard, one which Buchholz regularly surpasses. Every new project that PNC begins, including retail , financial center or advisory building , must be at least LEED Silver. The Bank of New York (Mellon) has also been a frequent repeat client of Buchholz’s, on their banks and financial office centers alike.

Airport Plaza was a 600,000 sq. ft. shopping center located on 92 acres of Long Island, New York. The plaza was located in very close proximity to Republic Airport, the state’s third busiest airport. Not only did the firm have to traverse the usual rigorous landscape of zoning laws and building codes involved in a project of such size, but their proximity to the airport also brought along another large set of regulations and requirements to follow. Nonetheless, Buchholz and his firm completed the project

easily within the margins of both schedule and budget. Additionally, a large majority of the retail tenants within the shopping center came to The Buchholz Architectural Group for their interior and exterior design, construction and management skills.

“Our experience in all facets of the conceptual, design, construction and management phases of a project give our clients peace of mind and the assurance that no problem, no matter how large or small, will impede our efforts,” Buchholz said. “I know how to deal with contractors and specialists because I was one for quite a while. As times become more demanding, so do our clients. Every conflict is an opportunity for a solution, and we know that we’re working with our clients, not against them.” ALT

OPPOSITE PAGE: Bank of New York. 6,200 sq. ft. interior alteration to create a new commercial banking branch.

This branch permitted the upgrage and expansion of the facility to attract new customers. Features of this installation include two ATM lobbies, a prefabricated vault, stateof-the-art teller stations and a business banking center.

THIS PAGE: ProActive Therapy clinic, Montclair, N.J. This new 5,000 sq. ft., state-of-the-art facility offers physical and sports therapy, with dedicated spaces for physical rehabilitation, acupuncture, sports training and massage.

Photos courtesy of Buchholz Architects.

northeast

| architecture

Every Detail, Every Day, Always Done Right

by Joel Cornell

24 Spring 2011

architecture

| northeast

Architecture Leaders Today 25

northeast

| architecture

By focusing on the highest quality of workmanship, SilverLining Interiors has grown to become one of New York City’s most prestigious high-end residential contractors.

26 Spring 2011

oshua Wiener grew up on the Upper West Side of New York City in a townhouse built in 1864. He worked alongside his father who was always tinkering, redesigning and renovating the old house. It was here that Wiener fell in love with the art of building.

Upon graduating from Vassar College in 1987 with a double major in psychology and drama, Wiener used the artisan skills he had developed in his youth to establish a painting and plastering company, which has evolved into one of New York’s premier highend contractors.

“We started out very ‘Tom Sawyer’-esque,” Wiener said. “I hired friends and acquaintances from college to help out here and there. It turned into a sustainable business. I had a crew of about five guys and I began hiring more talented and skilled career painters and carpenters as the business grew. From there, we incorporated in 1987 and have consistently grown to where we are today.”

Many of SilverLining’s first jobs were calls from flyers posted around the city. Initially, the company specialized in high-quality painting and plastering. As they completed jobs with great precision, their clients recognized their talent and gave them more work with increasing responsibilities. Many components of a project that are traditionally under the general

contractor’s contract were transferred to the team at SilverLining. Wiener began expanding the firm to accommodate the increasing scope, building a team of the city’s best supers, project managers, carpenters and support staff.

By 1991, SilverLining had evolved from painting and plastering specialists to a full-fledged general contractor.

In 1999, the cabinet shop to whom they subcontracted much of their work, began suffering from financial difficulties and went out of business. Wiener saw an opportunity and acquired the failed shop, equipment and artisans included. “It is an enormous asset for SilverLining, giving us control over the quality and schedule of the custom millwork built for many of our projects.”

In 2005, Wiener purchased an empty lot in the Bronx where he built a 14,000 sq. ft. stateof-the-art cabinet shop. The building includes sustainable components like hydronic-heated flooring, non-pollutive spray booths and natural lighting throughout nearly the entire facility.

SilverLining continued their steady growth, OPENING SPREAD: Architect: Heiberg Cummings Design; Photo by Peter Margonelli.

THIS PAGE: Architect: Heiberg Cummings Design; Photo

by Peter Margonelli.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Designer: Benjamin Noriega Ortiz Design; Architect: Brian Boyle; Photo by Antoine Bootz.

architecture

mainly through relationships with New York City’s premier architects and interior designers. In 1993, they acquired their first $1 million project for general contracting services.

Today, the firm builds projects ranging from $250,000 to $12 million. Their highly qualified and talented staff of over 140 trained artisans and support staff give them both the capacity and flexibility to build large and small projects alike, with the same attention to detail and service. They also believe that a strong relationship with their vendors is crucial to success and have worked with many premiere companies throughout the northeast including Empire Mirror & Glass, B&H Restoration, Capitol Fire Sprinklers Company, Charles W Beers, Inc., Ferra Designs, Integrated Comfort Systems Inc and Saint John’s Woodworking.

Wiener has built this prestigious firm on a simple yet rigorous dedication to quality, a philosophy which radiates throughout all levels of the organization. “For us it’s cultural. If you don’t believe in delivering the highest quality and service for our clients, you simply won’t fit in. We have very high standards,” Wiener said.

“The most any one project manager will ever handle is two projects at a time, depending on the size of the project,” Wiener said. “For the larger, multimillion dollar projects, we make sure that the project manager is overseeing only that one project. I always endeavor to keep my best and brightest employed and busy.

It’s the best way to ensure that you’re always keeping the best people on staff and constantly

motivating them to grow and evolve.”

“We have several layers of management to ensure the highest quality on each project.

We have two executive project managers who oversee our project managers. They provide an additional perspective through many years of experience, and make sure that every step of every project is perfectly managed.” Wiener keeps himself involved in every project, while refraining from micromanaging the day to day details.

SilverLining believes every client they work with deserves their total commitment and dedicated service from beginning to end. So, in 2000, they established a full-time service department. Their function includes punch-list management, warranty servicing and small projects management.

True to their beginnings as a painting company, SilverLining is very much concerned with the finishes and details. As a high-end residential builder working exclusively within New York City, this makes for a perfect fit. Their clients expect the highest quality when it comes to the guts of a project like electrical, plumbing and framing work. But it’s the finished details that make a project sing.

“Over these past two years, we’ve seen the prices of our competitors drop significantly,” Wiener said. “We try and keep our prices very competitive, despite our significantly better quality of workmanship. Yet, people are looking very, very hard at the numbers now and aren’t necessarily willing to pay the

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FERRA DESIGNS Specializing in precision architectural metal fabrication, Ferra Designs' directive is to provide the highest quality craftsmanship to the most discriminating clientele. They meet the most stringent deadlines with a progressive aesthetic for the most the discerning architects and designers. Ferra Designs technology-based development is fortified by the time honored traditions of the true craftsman. For more information, visit www.ferradesigns.com.

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OPPOSITE PAGE: Architect: Gary Morganroth; Designer: Tsao & McKown Architects THIS PAGE: Architect: BKSK Architects; Photo by Frank Oudeman.

slight premium for a better product or service.

Elements of our company such as our service department do come at a cost to us and the client. Many times, we’ve witnessed potential clients who have chosen other contractors with under-qualified workers on staff -- something we refuse to do, no matter how the economy might look.”

It’s hard for an architect or designer releasing blueprints to bid to know exactly the level of quality and service they will receive. It’s important for them to research prospective contractors and to tour completed jobs to develop an accurate understanding of the caliber of the company. Often for an owner embarking on a renovation, it’s the biggest financial commitment of their life and they after have very little to go on initially. “I encourage our potential new clients to tour our completed and in-progress work that will attest to the standard we hold ourselves to; even jobs built 5 to 10 years ago, to show how well our projects hold up both physically and aesthetically,” Wiener said.

The leadership team at SilverLining does not set specific growth goals. That is not their concern, despite completing over $40 million in projects annually. “What we care about is not how profitable we will be,” Wiener said.

“Rather to deliver the highest level of quality and service. Clients see the value and from there, growth will continue organically as it has over the past two-plus decades.” ALT

CAPITOL FIRE SPRINKLERS CO. Capitol Fire has had the pleasure of working with SilverLining Interiors for the past six years and hope to continue in the future. Capitol Fire is a full service fire protection company and the largest open shop fire protection contractor in the metropolitan area. Capitol Fire has full design, fabrication and installation capabilities.

For more information, visit www.capitolfire.com.

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architectural products

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Boro Plastering a long history of fine craftsmanship and quality service

by Joel Cornell

As the Spanish Civil War raged across the Atlantic and President Roosevelt was sworn in for his second term, artisan Andrew Matorella took his vast range of experience and applied it to professional plastering.

With the intention of doing nothing but the finest in first class, high-quality residential plastering work, Matorella founded Boro Plastering in 1937.

As time went on, the company continued to see unprecedented growth. Their expansion was based entirely upon the quality of their work and their unceasing dedication to customer satisfaction.

Boro Plastering continued to expand, and so did the Matorella family. In 1946, Andrew’s son, Joseph, took control of the company. His efforts only furthered his father’s original vision of what a high-end residential artisan plastering company should be.

In preserving the family business that his father had struggled to maintain, Andrew held the company focus on the quality of the work above all else. Less than a decade later, in 1954, Andrew’s younger son, John, joined his brother Joseph as a partner in the business.

Their reputation for the highest quality plastering work was beginning to take them to new and greater heights, and the family’s deep trust in each other and their dedication to meeting every demand of the client cemented this reputation. The result has been nearly a century of nothing but the best in high-quality plastering work.

Due to the continued success and rapid expansion of Boro Plastering across the West Coast, the Matorella brothers were joined by current company president Gary Annino in 1997. Annino’s vision and talent enabled the artisans and specialists working for the company to spearhead its success far into the next century.

“Our goal was to create a diversified organization that could afford clients the opportunity to benefit from a professional approach to construction handled on a personal level,” Annino wrote in a personal letter to the public.

“This has been successfully accomplished by maintaining an annual volume, which is measured enough to control, but large enough to offer our clients the competitive pricing necessary to maintain excellence in 30 Spring 2011

today’s marketplace.”

Today, the portfolio and list of clients that Boro Plastering has maintained reflects the high caliber of their work. The company has done plastering for Barneys New York, Sotheby’s London, the New York Stock Exchange and many of Broadway’s most famous theatres. A few of their personal and residential clients include Faye Dunaway, John Lennon, Steven Sondheim, Charles Gwathmey and Harrison Ford.

In working with a range of architects and interior designers around the world, Boro Plastering is able to turn ordinary rooms into works of art through the addition of unique, custom and precast moldings, domes, columns, colored Venetian plaster, ceilings and precast classical ornaments such as rosettes and plaques.

The company’s unique vision and the level of talented, skilled artisans they retain ensure absolutely nothing except the highest quality plastering in the world available today. ALT

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HOMSEY ARCHITECTS

PROJECTS OF EVERY SHAPE AND SIZE

by Joel Cornell

Many architects working today focus on one particular sector, industry or building type.

Their specialty might foster a unique depth of knowledge, but what happens when that niche drops out entirely? Eldon Homsey, through his years of experience and background across a multitude of industry verticals, sectors and subsectors, understands this notion. For over half a century, his firm of Homsey Architects, Inc. has completed hundreds of projects of all sizes and uses, across all sectors.

Homsey first began his business upon leaving Harvard University with a Bachelor of the Arts in Fine Arts in 1957 and the University of Pennsylvania with a Masters Degree in Architecture in 1961. Right as he hit the ground running in the mid to late 1960s, Homsey endeavored to always provide a little bit more than his competition ever could. Of the expansive range of services that Homsey Architects, Inc. offers to its clients, many services other firms consider extemporaneous are always considered among the core set of services any architect should provide. A broad range of post-occupancy services are only a few of the unique resources Homsey Architects, Inc. brings to its clients.

The industries serviced by Homsey Architects, Inc. span from corporate, educational and institutional, to religious, historic and residen-

tial. Residential design currently constitutes numerous commissions and has nurtured nearly 25 percent of their annual practice. preservationists on his staff. Staff members The firm’s very first major project, a country currently volunteer by serving on historic estate in Delaware known as Mount Cuba, review boards, local historic societies and was completed in 1936 and is currently listed civic organizations, as well as by researching on the National Register of Historic Places. local historic resources and assisting history Today, Homsey Architects, Inc. continues museums with fundraising. their tradition of highly personalized, highHomsey Architects, Inc. realizes that buildquality services for all clients. For residential ings are not just for today; no building project clients, the firm provides both creative, social is ever really supposed to end. They underand financial design aspects. These extra steps stand just how a client’s needs can extend before, during and after a project have kept far beyond the visible scope of their current clients coming back for project after project. project, and their services represent this The firm has always done their best to understanding by taking clients not just where reinvigorate old communities and revital- they can, but wherever they need to go. ALT ize the more historic aspects of a project.

THIS PAGE: The Longview Gardens in Kennet Square, Pa., was designed to lead viewers through the garden.

Homsey Architects, Inc. believes that historic Homsey handled the Palm House, a beautiful glass buildreuse simply makes sense, from reaffirming ing designed to allow palms to grow to their full height. a community’s sense of place and history, It features different levels for a variety of views. Photo by Mark Pellegrini. to conserving valuablenatural resources.

Homsey has established a corporate culture that appreciates and promotes historic VANDEMARK & LYNCH preservation. He founded VanDemark & Lynch has provided civil engineering, land Preservation Delaware in 1993 planning and land surveying services in the Mid-Atlantic region and has served on the Board for over 70 years. VanDemark & Lynch is proud to have worked of Advisors of the National with Homsey Architects on a multitude of successful projects Trust for Historic Preserva- during their entire 65-plus year history, and hope to continue tion. His work with historic their excellent working relationship for many years to come. For structures has won the firm more information visit www.vandemarklynch.com Architecture Leaders Today 31

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GUND PARTNERSHIP

a focus on campuses with a niche in the arts

by Felecia Willis

Founded in 1971 by renowned architect Graham Gund FAIA, Gund Partnership has evolved into an internationally recognized firm for their work on campuses and in the arts. “We’ve changed our name over the years,” said Laura Cabo AIA, a principal in the firm along with Gund and John Prokos FAIA. “It really tells the story of the evolution of the firm. We were founded by Graham Gund, and over the years we’ve become Gund Partnership, which is the story of our collaboration.”

Other things have changed since their founding, including the types of buildings the company has worked on. “Over the years we’ve worked on a variety of different building types,” Prokos said. “We’ve maintained a strong focus on academics but we’ve also built many housing and resort projects while fostering a particular expertise in the arts.”

Gund Partnership has an impressive portfolio in the arts. “We are nationally known for our vast expertise in any kind of visual and performing arts on campuses,” Cabo said.

“In this current recession, it is interesting that those types of projects seem to be rising to the top of wish lists for campuses these days.” The firm notes that the popularity of the arts on campus is, in part, due to their ability to fulfill the missions of liberal arts institutions to mold well-rounded students.

In today’s increasingly visually-based world, students who creatively problemsolve are the ones that rise to the top of their professions. Exposure to both visual and performing arts has fueled the current interest in interdisciplinary opportunities on campus where students and faculty can work together, pushing the limits of innovaTHIS PAGE: (TOP LEFT) John Prokos, FAIA, LEED AP, Managing Principal. Photo by Chuck Choi. (TOP RIGHT) Graham Gund, FAIA, LEED AP, President. Photo by Mark Ostow. (BOTTOM) William Oxley Thompson Memorial Library, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio Exterior view of the west entrance and Buckeye Reading Room.

Photo by Brad Feinknopf.

OPPOSITE PAGE: William Oxley Thompson Memorial Library, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. Interior view of the west atrium, looking towards the central glass encased book tower. Photo by Brad Feinknopf.

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tive scholarship. “The arts on campus are natural gateways to the surrounding community that foster positive relationships, and in many cases can help to strengthen local economies,” Cabo said.

Gund Partnership’s interdisciplinary approach has led to the firm’s reputation for designs that transform traditional building types. The recently completed William Oxley Thompson Memorial Library at Ohio State University combines a variety of environments to engage a student body of more than 60,000 undergraduates and graduates.

Since its opening, the library has experienced more than four times the number of daily visitors than prior to the renovation.

Growing out of their housing and resort portfolio, Gund Partnership’s campus experience includes important student life facilities.

They recently completed the renovation and expansion of the main dining hall at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Also at THIS PAGE: South Franklin Circle, Chagrin Falls, Ohio.

Exterior view of the Community Center and the interior view of the swimming pool, inside of the Community Center. Photos by Brad Feinknopf.

OPPOSITE PAGE: (TOP) Laura Sanden Cabo, AIA, LEED AP, Principal Photo by (BOTTOM)The Waterworks at Chestnut Hill, Chestnut Hill, Maas. View of the private courtyard within Whitehall. Photo by Chuck Choi.

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Kenyon, the firm designed a new village of student townhouses, which is currently under construction. Reflecting 21st century student life trends, these projects create a mixed use of space, supporting the vibrant day-to-day life of students and the vitality of the campus.

College campuses aren’t the only schools that have benefitted from the work of Gund Partnership. The firm’s portfolio boasts the largest high school ever built in Massachusetts. Newton North High School is 413,000 sq. ft. of new construction. Additionally, the company completed South Franklin Circle, a 625,000 sq. ft. new senior living community outside of Cleveland, Ohio, and the International Retailers and Manufacturers’ Showcase, a one million sq. ft. commercial center outside of Euro Disney in Paris. “For a relatively small firm, we are sought after for some large projects that encompass a variety of building types in which the client is seeking an innovative solution to the standard response,” Prokos said.

Gund Partnership possesses an esteemed reputation as the recipient of over 125 awards throughout the years, including the Housing Award from the AIA and Time magazine’s Best Design of the Year for the Church Court Condominiums, completed in 1993.

The company has a major commitment for sustainability and green design for all

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their projects. Ninety-five percent of the technical staff and 100 percent of licensed staff are LEED Accredited Professionals, including Gund, whose own home employed geothermal resources years ahead of the current green movement. The company recently completed the LEED Gold Armour Academic Center at Westminster School in Simsbury, Conn. They are also proud to have the first newly constructed LEED Silver project in the nation’s capitol, The National Association of Realtors building, as one of their assignments.

What all Gund Partnership ventures have in common is the desire of the company to develop creative design solutions that provide the greatest possible value within their clients established budgets. The core of the practice is centered on collaboration with owners to express mission, philosophy and community in a wide range of planning and design assignments. ALT

ALBERT M. HIGLEY CO. The Albert M. Higley Co. in Cleveland, Ohio has completed some of its most iconic projects with Gund Partnership. Please visit www.amhigley.com for images of current and previous collaborations. With more than 11,500 completed projects, against which Albert M. Higley Co. can compare their work, their esteem for Gund Partnership is sincere.

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A Small Firm With A Big Name The five-man firm of John Laffey Architects is at home in the high-end, custom residential market of Long Island’s East End.

by Amelia Doenlen

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Long Islander throughand-through, John Laffey has contributed a great deal to the picturesque l a n d s c ap e of L on g Island’s East End, building many of the areas beautiful homes. With over 16 years of practice behind him, and no end in sight, he has many more notable projects up his sleeve.

“I knew I was going to be an architect all my life,” said Laffey, president of John Laffey Architects. “It was a calling, really, and I just couldn’t have imagined doing anything else.”

After graduating from the New York Institute of Technology, and completing his apprenticeship, Laffey was drawn to the bright and bustling world of New York City architecture. But after a brief stint in the city he realized that residential architecture was his calling, and he headed back to Long Island.

“My first office was 12 feet wide by 22 feet long,” Laffey said. Over time, as the workload grew and needs expanded, he gradually took on one or two associates to help. Today, the small, family-like firm consists of Laffey and four associates. A pen-and-ink guy, Laffey

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was trained before technology was used in architecture and he prefers hand drawing his initial plans before handing them over for rendering.

“I do work on AutoCAD, but I’m affectionately known as the aging dinosaur in the office,” he said. “I’m not very good with it, but I do appreciate it as a tool and for its accuracy and its ability to create the detail in the drawings that the contractors and I require to make really great houses.”

Laffey likes to keep the firm small so he can stay involved in all projects. “I’m kind of a control freak,” he said. “I try to delegate the work as best I can, but the small setup allows me to be very involved in all the projects we have going on from the design development to the finishing aspects like painting.”

Working almost exclusively in the East End, Laffey values the ability to remotely dictate project specifics.

“It’s a great environment working out here. I can be on the beach on one job, in the woods looking out over Peconic Bay on another. I can be out in farm fields or on the cliffs overlooking Lake Montauk.”

The portfolio boasts a variety of custom

ALAN COURT & ASSOCIATES Alan Court & Associates, a distributor of stone, tile and plumbing fixtures, is considered by John Laffey to be an incredibly talented and valuable asset to not only his firm, but more importantly to his clients.

As part of the design process, John Laffey enjoys bringing clients into Alan Court’s showroom in East Hampton because Court brings a creative flare to the designs. Alan Court & Associates has a unique selection of tile and stones that are not found with other distributors. According to Laffey, Alan Court & Associates is not only creative, but keeps the budget in mind for Laffey’s clients as well. To find out more about Alan Court & Associates call 631-324-7497 or email alan@ alancourtassociates.com

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It’s a great environment working out here. I can be on the beach on one job, in the woods looking out over Peconic Bay on another.

I can be out in farm fields or on the cliffs overlooking Lake Montauk.

UPSTATE DOOR New York-based Upstate Door is a producer of custom-made hardwood doors. A proud partner of John Laffey Architects, Upstate Door works with John Laffey to create his vision of what he and his customers want. Upstate Door delivers perfect hardwood entryways and interior doors to complement John Laffey's beautifully crafted and designed homes. Upstate Door builds to specification and produces stile and rail doors for entryways, interiors, patios and porches. At Upstate Door, each project features architect and builder design, built to their specifications, the finest hardwoods and expert craftsmanship. Please visit www.upstatedoor.com or call 1-800-570-8283 to see more distinctive door solutions.

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The clients we’ve had over the years are the top in their chosen line of work and having the opportunity to create dream homes for them and get to know them and their families, makes for very rewarding work and a very rewarding life.

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designed dream homes, specializing in Neoclassical architecture. Laffey draws inspiration from 1800s and early 1900s Colonial summer homes. Shingle-style architecture makes up about 90 percent of the firm’s work.

“If you came to me and asked for an ultramodern glass concrete house, honestly, I probably would tell you that I’m not your guy,” Laffey said. “Its not that I wouldn’t enjoy it, but there are guys that do that specifically.”

The full-service firm works with the client from start to finish, a process that can take around two years. Theybegin with the zoning analysis, site plans and budget, and stay till the last coat of paint has dried.

“We’re big on team approaches here,” Laffey said. “We work with ourselves, with the clients and with the contractor to make sure that everyone stays involved with the project and there is no darkness in the process.”

When starting the process Laffey asks the client to bring in pictures of architectural styles and details they like to help clarify their vision for the project. Oftentimes he will bring new clients to tour homes that he has previously built to gather inspira-

SUMMERHILL LANDSCAPES Since 1993, Summerhill Landscapes, Inc. has maintained a dedication to the highest standards of product and service throughout the Hamptons. Summerhill Landscapes is a full service landscaping company providing design, landscape installation, masonry, irrigation and full property maintenance. The creative team will guide clients through specialized restrictions such as re-vegetation, deer and environmental concerns. The central concern of Summerhill Landscapes is the quality of service through all stages of the project from inception to maintaining your investment for long lasting sustainability. For more information on Summerhill Landscapes, please visit www. summerhilllandscapes.com

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FOUNTAINHEAD CONSTRUCTION Fountainhead Construction is a service-oriented firm that specializes in building architect-designed custom homes and high-quality renovations. The professionals at Fountainhead combine superior craftsmanship, expertise and a commitment to quality to produce the finest homes. The majority of projects are referrals from prior customers and architects who feel no hesitation in recommending Fountainhead Construction to their clients. For the past two decades, Fountainhead Construction’s efforts have been focused in the Hamptons, which gives them a unique understanding of the environmental conditions in the area and how they affect building a home. Whether it’s a shingled cottage, oceanfront estate or contemporary new construction, Fountainhead Construction’s mission is to bring your architectural plans to life. Fountainhead Construction is proud of their reputation and works hard to maintain it. For more information on building or renovating your dream Hamptons home, please visit www.fhcinc.com.

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tion and to provide a clear image of the finished project.

“It’s important to me that the client is very invested in their house,” Laffey said, “because ultimately that makes the best product.”

For a firm that works entirely off wordof-mouth, it’s crucial that each house is nothing short of perfect. “You’re only as good as your last job,” Laffey said. He feels they are lucky to have gotten this far, and that while they are a small firm they have made a big name for themselves.

“As long as my name gets mentioned in Manhattan in the right circles, it trickles down very easily,” he said. “The clients we’ve had over the years are the top in their chosen line of work. Having the opportunity to create dream homes for them and get to know them and their families, makes for very rewarding work and a very rewarding life.”

While roughly 90 percent of the firm’s work is residential, they also work in the commercial sector and recently completed the historic renovation of a church in Southampton that was built in 1908. Keeping the

IMPERIAL GUNITE Thirty years ago Imperial Gunite, Inc. coined the term ‘Total Swimming Environment’. “The swimming pool should be treated as a focal point within a larger landscaped room,” said Tony Vindell, owner. Stunning focal points are exactly what Imperial Gunite have been providing; but quietly. Avoiding traditional marketing like newspaper advertising and direct mail, the company thrives on word-of-mouth testimonials from past clients who access this distinctive builder through their architects and builders— professionals who have chosen Imperial for their own personal swimming pool projects. “It speaks volumes when the top architects and builders come straight to us for their homes and it’s always a pleasure to hear from prospective clients who tell me they loved the pool we built at a friend’s home,” says Vindell. “There’s pride in that.”

Imperial Gunite was chosen to build the swimming pools at two Hampton’s showcase homes as well as the fountains at the prestigious Ross School. They are rarely credited for their work shown in many publications, but Vindell doesn’t mind. “I’m not looking for accolades, I am happy to work with the leading visionaries.

Moving with them to their next project is the perfect pat on the back.” To see more of Imperial Gunite’s work, visit: www.imperialgunite.com

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existing steeple and back wall standing, they rebuilt everything in between, redoing all the glass windows and the pews. “This was a beautiful old barn that the Polish community had built over 100 years ago.

To bring it back to its former glory was incredibly rewarding,” Laffey said.

Currently, Laffey is undertaking a 16,000 sq. ft. gymnasium addition for a local parochial school. The addition includes an indoor track that loops around the inside of the second story. Previously, the school’s gym operated out of the cafeteria. Laffey’sown children have attended the school and he is excited to contribute something that will impact future attendees so positively. “It was great to see the town to come together to back the project in a time when many schools are slimming down because of the economy.”

Despite the economic climate, the firm has stayed busy-- a testament to their skills.

The boom of the area peaked in the ‘90s and Laffey has noticed a definite drop in the past two years, but attributes it mostly to the natural ebb and flow. “We run the office a bit tighter and we’re more careful,” he said, “but we’ve held through. The firm has had very low turnover over the years and has kept great relationships with the few people that have left. “ What really sets us apart,” Laffey said, “is who we have worked for and what we have accomplished.” ALT 46 Spring 2011

CARPEN HOUSE The kitchen shown was designed

by Carpen House in conjunction with a John Laffey Architectsdesigned East Hampton residence.

Alex Stivala of Carpen House has been working with John Laffey since 2004 on many residential projects including the one pictured above.

“We’ve built a mutual trust within our designing relationship, which brings out the best of our abilities when it comes to designing the perfect solution in cabinetry. John creates the space and conceptual kitchen, and then I make sure that the layout and flow of the kitchen works well. Then, I add the final aesthetic touches,” Stivala said.

Stivala designs and engineers cabinetry that achieves the heights of both functionality and quality. Every design complements John Laffey’s designs whether it is kitchen, library or bathroom cabinetry that Carpen House builds.

Working as a team with Laffey’s office, Carpen House brings the best end result and strives to exceed the client’s expectations not only to the creator but also the client who will ultimately enjoy the final product.

For more information on custom woodworking for your home, please visit www.carpenhouse.com or call Alex Stivala at 877-396-3302.

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architectural products

W

ith arms sticky from the heat, you fight to pull on your inflatable arm floaties, eager to break the calm surface of the pool. Mom gives them one last tug and you take off, your flight broken only by the reek of chlorine that fills your nostrils as you fall towards the water.

You hardly register the smell but you know it will linger on your skin the rest of the day and exude from your bathing suit the next time you pull it on.

Chlorine: it’s the smell that those childhood memories are clouded with, and it is not a good one.

“When you smell chlorine in the air or on your skin, what you smell is a harmful by-product of chlorine,” said Steve Kenny, owner of Long Island-based SRK Pool Services. “For 50 years we have grown to accept this as okay and part of the swimming experience. But we have been misled.”

With all of today’s technological and scientific advancements, it’s easy to question why, just as you did all those years ago, your children still smell of chlorine hours after a swim. While the science of pool cleaning, care and filtration has made progress, this progress has not yet made an appearance in America.

“We believe it’s time to embrace safer, healthier, more cost effective methods of pool water treatment,” Kenny said. Through years of trial and error research, dialogue with experts, and water chemistry and index classes, Kenny has taken every step towards becoming an expert on water and water chemistry.

Pools need to be sanitized often in order to keep the microorganisms, bacteria and chemicals at healthy levels. The World Health Organization cites close to 20 chemicals that exist in pool, tub and spa water, ranging from urine, sweat, and soap residues, to chlorate and pH correction chemicals.

Swimmers are exposed to these chemicals by absorption through the skin. Inexperienced children are especially susceptible to the accidental ingestion of water and their growing bodies are damaged by invading bacteria and chemicals.

While chlorine is the American standard for pool maintenance, other more progressive options like Ozone oxidation have been used in Europe for many years.

“My passion for water safety and hygiene is what drove me to build a unique type of pool that we refer to as The Hydrozone3 System,” Kenny said.

“The ‘3’ indicates three layers of protection against recreational water illness and has been all the buzz on the East End of Long Island. In 2008 we installed our first of this breed of pools for the Hamptons Cottage & Garden Magazine’s Idea House with great success. We have continued installing these types of pools over the past three years and not until recently have we eliminated the entrapment issues of having main drains.”

These pools are designed with dual filtration systems that quickly remove surface contaminants with the use of up to eight skimmers and two mains which return treated and heated water to up to 8 floor returns eliminating dead spots.

The first system is for oxidizing using corona discharge ozone, high flow contact chamber, 48 Spring 2011

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Steve Kenny is an expert on water and water chemistry, and he aims to bring safer, healtheir and more cost effective methods of pool water treatment to the U.S. through beautiful designs.

by Amelia

Architecture Leaders Today 49

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Degas and Destruct and ORP reader. The second sterilizes with a high flow amalgam UV sterilizer and a trace amount of chlorine (.5ppm) for bather to bather contamination.

For projects that have limited budget or capabilities, SRK incorporates three layers into one advanced oxidation system by adding Ozone to the UV Chamber.

“Advanced oxidation is one of the most powerful, amazing systems I’ve seen in 25 years,” Kenny said.

“It has no residual or impact on water balance and total dissolved solids. So we’re left with water that needs little to no adjustment right down to the potential hydrogen… a perfect saturation index of 120 alkalinity, 250 calcium, 7.6 pH, .5ppm chlorine and zero pH drift or adjustment.

These pools are designed to be totally compliant with soon-to-be-released standards including: anti-entrapment, sustainable equipment, energy efficient, structural engineering, oxidation and proper sanitation.”

The vast varieties of infection caused by unhealthy water require elaborate care. Care that is lacking in the industry, said Kenny who believes that the industry has cultivated a business that forces the consumer to sacrifice concern for the safety for a cheaper weekly service fee.

“The residential swimming pool industry has been left alone to do whatever it wishes when it comes to pool water chemistry,” Kenny said, adding that there are no uniform, national standards governing the design, construction, 50 Spring 2011

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operation, and maintenance. “You need no qualifications or proof of education that qualify you as a responsible person who can maintain a healthy swimming environment. All you need is a pick-up truck, chlorine, cleaning equipment and most important to the consumer, a low weekly cleaning fee, and you are considered the best new pool company in town.

Kenny said oxidization is hard to sell in America.

“Often when working on new pools, the architect or builder has more input then the homeowner,” he said. “Any they don’t want to hear about oxidizing or filtration systems. They just want a hole in the ground that holds water and falls within the pool budget. We’re not looking to remove them completely from the pool part of the project. We only require that we can work with the client to do things right and get the best possible design for them. We’d rather do one amazing pool than ten ‘hole in the ground’ pools.”

Building a pool that will be structurally sound for years to come is a many-step process, Kenny said, including overlooked aspects such as design, soil reports, structural engineer reports and building with a strict set of guidelines.

SRK considers all aspects of the pool, working with the aesthetic of the house and the structure of the surrounding community. Instead of a set of packages for clients to choose from, SRK provides a custom experience from start to finish.

“Getting to know the client is the key for success in pool design,” Kenny said. “We ask our clients

specific questions about their family, their day, their lives, etc. Do they have kids? extended family? Will they use the pool for exercise? aesthetics? recreation? Do they swim at night? early morning? It’s our job to acknowledge every little detail” With this information SRK designs the perfect pool shape, water chemistry, water temperature and lighting.

Though careful attention is paid to its complex designs and custom projects, one of SRKs biggest concerns for all of its pools is total energy efficiency. Many of the traditional tools required to keep a pool at the right temperature, pH balance or level of sanitation involve harsh chemicals or expensive systems. However, SRK abandons these traditional systems and aims for complete sustainability in their designs using Ozone oxidation.

An early adopter of this technology, SRK prides itself on being one of the industry’s most expert, innovative companies in the implementation of ozone oxidation.

Ozone works in oxidation systems to drastically reduce a pool’s chlorine demand. In most systems, a high amount of chlorine is used to both oxidize and sanitize the water. Ozone oxidation systems use pumps that generate and circulate ozone into the pool to oxidize the water (i.e.: burn bacterial contaminants). The constant oxidation of the water allows the chlorine to function strictly as a sanitizer drastically reduc-

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ing the chlorine footprint. The oxidation system also reduces scum lines around the pool and helps to maintain extremely high water quality without the chlorine odor.

There are two ways to achieve ozone oxidation: corona discharge and UV radiation. The corona discharge generator turns regular oxygen into ozone. It is used to burn out contaminates. The UV radiation systems prevents microorganisms from mutating. Both of these systems are CDC and EPA certified to treat and disinfect pathogens and viruses. SRK uses a combination of both for treating pools and believes that allowing both systems to work together provides the utmost cleanliness.

The need for change in the pool industry has been compared to that of automobile manufacturing. Today, all drivers expect and demand airbags, antilock brakes and shoulder strap seat belts − safety features that were just being introduced 30 years ago. This type of change is needed in the pool industry to improve water quality, hygiene and energy efficiency in pools we swim.

“There is no silver bullet to water treatment and water balance,” Kenny said. “The time has come to lead the public to a better way of water treatment in swimming pools and drinking water.” ALT

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The Highest Quality Eco-Chic For the Chicago-based firm of Rada Architects, distinct and contemporary designs at the forefront of eco-friendly architecture are just the begining of what they have to offer.

by Anne Brouilette Photos by James Steinkamp

Founded by Bulgarian-American Rada Doytcheva, RADA Architecture has an eye-catching edge. Along with the firm’s international f lair, eco-friendly building expertise has made it one of the Midwest’s premiere educational architecture firms.

When Doytcheva immigrated to the United States, she immersed herself in its architectural culture, and dove into American design with Bulgarian roots.

After working as an associate for a large design firm, she founded RADA Architecture in Chicago in 1994.

Spotting a market demand, Doytcheva and her partner William Sitton specialize in higher education architecture, while still extending into commercial, public and private sectors.

Sitton, head of project development, brought his technical experience to the firm, after 30 years of work on buildings, including high-rises, museums and airports. ” We share a passion for architectural ingenuity and rationality of design,” Doytcheva said.

One of RADA’s highest achievements has been completing Chicago’s first LEED Silver mid-rise multi-unit residential development project, Clybourn Point, in 2007. The building is made from 10 percent recycled materials, promotes recycling for its inhabitants, uses regionally sourced material and features renewable bamboo flooring.

A highlight for residents, the building’s green reduces the urban heat’s island effect, reduces storm water runoff, conserves water and energy and reduces pollution.

Designing Clybourn Point was a career highlight for Doytcheva and Sitton. Beyond bringing green building to Chicago, they have introduced numerous ecofriendly practices to Clybourn Point’s inhabitants.

“As one of the first new buildings in the corridor, Clybourn

INTERIOR INVESTMENTS Interior Investments is in the business of helping to create environments that support productivity, learning and healing.

They are proud to have accomplished these goals with RADA Architects on the 400 EAST Club project. For more information, visit www.interiorinvestments.com.

HERNER-GEISSLER WOODWORKING Family-owned and operated, Herner-Geissler Woodworking specializes in high-end custom woodworking. A key element for a successful project is the coordination between the architect and the woodworker, which is evident at the 400 EAST Fitness and Recreation, designed by RADA Architects with woodwork provided by Herner-Geissler Woodworking. For more information, call (312) 226-3400.

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Point has set a standard for urban renewal and socially conscious design,” said Walter Burnett Jr., Alderman, Chigaco city councilman.

Where the firm really shines is at universities, where their eco-friendly designs extend across campus lawns. Recently, they completed a student residence hall at North Central College in Naperville, Ill., fondly recognized as the “Gold Coast” for being one of students’ most desirable on-campus accommodations. The facade of the building “reinforces the continuity of Victorian houses surrounding the site,” helping the college blend seamlessly into its community.

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“The Townhouses,” as termed by the school, houses 100 students in duplexes or lofts, each with a living room, internal stair, several bedrooms and bathrooms and a small kitchen.

The lower levels feature state-of-the-art recreation, study and support facilities, all wired to the campus computer network.

Dedicated to bringing green concepts to Chicago’s urban sprawl, Doytcheva and Sitton push for greener projects ahead. “We are the ‘messengers’ of concepts, ideas, philosophy and innovation,” Doytcheva said. “We influence the quality of life.” ALT Architecture Leaders Today 53

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BERKELEY REPERTORY THEATRE • BOSTON CONSERVATORY • CALIFORNIA SHAKESPEARE THEATRE • CARNEGIE HALL • ZANKEL HALL CELEBRITY CRUISE LINES • DENVER ART MUSEUM HAMILTON BUILDING • US CAPITOL VISITOR CENTER • EMERSON COLLEGE, PARAMOUNT THEATRE • HAYDEN PLANETARIUM • UC SAN DIEGO PREBYS MUSIC CENTER • FOX CALIFORNIA THEATRE • MGM MIRAGE CIRQUE DU SOLEIL LOVE • SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY GREEN MUSIC CENTER • MESA ARTS CENTER GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY PLANETARIUM UC DAVIS MONDAVI CENTER FOR THE ARTS • NAPA VALLEY COLLEGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUM OF MODERN ART MGM CITYCENTER, CIRQUE DU SOLEIL VIVA ELVIS SAN FRANCISCO WAR MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE • SANTA FE OPERA • CSU NORTHRIDGE VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER • SIGNATURE THEATRE CENTER • CYPRUS CULTURAL CENTRE SAN FRANCISCO CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC PHILADELPHIA ACADEMY OF MUSIC VERIZON WIRELESS AMPITHEATRE AT ENCORE PARK AUERBACH • POLLOCK • FRIEDLANDER Performing Arts/Media Facilities Planning and Design

SAN FRANCISCO

NEW YORK

www.auerbachconsultants.com

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info@auerbachconsultants.com

WEST INSIDE: PLEINAIRE DESIGN GROUP

Wisteria Vine Photo courtesy of PleinAire Design Group

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PLEINAIRE DESIGN GROUP

ROLLING OUT THE RED CARPET FOR CLIENTS AND THE GREEN CARPET FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

by Rebecca Rodriguez

THIS PAGE: Giving guests an arrival that reflects the clients home is always an integral part of design.

TOP OPPOSITE PAGE: This quiet fountain of Bacchus with the surrounding grape arbor gives the clients a tranquil foreground to the dramatic whitewater ocean views beyond.

SECOND: Located in a vineyard garden this arbor and firepit gives the client a place for private tastings.

BOTTOM LEFT: With expansive ocean views beyond, this Hawaiian themed home required a lush tropical landscape to set the scene for guests as they arrive.

BOTTOM RIGHT: A peek through the redwood grove gives a view into a children's reading garden where everything is scaled to a child's point of view.

60 Spring 2011

When Kevin Small plans a new project, he starts by holding a formative meeting with his client. For the first half hour, he lets them do all the talking.

They might not use the correct jargon to express their ideas precisely, but as a landscape designer, it’s up to Small to listen and translate their thoughts into a mastery of design.

“It’s not about me,” said Small, owner of PleinAire Design Group in Santa Maria, Calif. “It’s about getting the client to where they want to be. It’s their home and their life and each client is different emotionally and aesthetically. I’ve had numerous clients tell me that they selected me because I listened to them when other designers told them what they needed.”

After studying design at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, Small joined Eriksson, Peters & Thoms, now known as EPT Landscape Architecture, in San Juan Capistrano, Calif. At EPT, Small honed his technique, and learned to prioritize the client’s desires and let them create their space. While his studies had focused on designer-centric design, working with EPT showed him an approach that pushes the designer’s ego aside.

“Each client is unique. I don’t have a style. If you look at my portfolio, every project is different because every client is different,” Small said.

Small has one requirement for all designs, which he refuses to compromise, even for high-profile customers. Eco-friendly design, required in droughtthreatened California, is important to Small both professionally and personally. He relies mostly on personal knowledge, with go-to experts on-call, like biologists and botanists, for more complex projects.

Habitat restoration is especially sensitive in the rural areas and creeks surrounding Small’s office.

Looking over these areas, PleinAire is driven towards its mission to preserve environmental integrity and discourage invasive species, especially along vulnerable coastal dunes. Small designs with native plants to maintain ecological integrity and sensitivity for the animals.

The words “habitat restoration” can sometimes bog down a project from the beginning as it faces government agencies. Small doesn’t let this obstacle block his environmental aims. PleinAire recently set up a monarch butterfly habitat on a housing development project along the species’ migratory path. Though the clients didn’t know about the

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habitat plans, everyone was pleased in the end.

“Once the project was approved, I told the developer and he was happy because of what it would do for sales,” he said. “Here was an opportunity to do the right thing, in a way that made life easier for everyone.”

Small’s firm has been around for 20 years, offering full-range landscape architecture services, including water management, arborist consulting and landscape management. He has worked on custom residential, commercial, public works and planned communities, with additional experience in plant appraisals, habitat restoration and drought tolerant and native plants.

PleinAire clients are primarily gained through word-of-mouth and Small’s travels throughout California. Some clients are from Canada and Mexico, and need work done on vacation homes. One client hired PleinAire for a project while on vacation in Mexico, and was able to work remotely with contractors and oversee funds.

“When the client returned home it was all lit up and everything was finished. I remember the client saying to me, ‘There’s just one thing about this project that surprises me; you made it so easy,’” Small said, recalling the client’s words. “Only two checks were written; one at the start, and one after completion.”

Small recalled an engineering firm hiring him for his low maintenance.”They tell me what to do and I take care of it,” he said.

Small has no desire for a big office in Los Angeles. On the central coast of California in Santa Maria, he is surrounded by beauty, minutes from the ocean, oak forests and vineyards. He lives in an area where people prioritize exteriors, and believe outdoor activity improves quality of life.

“It’s all about being outside and enjoying the environment and outdoors,” he said, adding that nearby San Luis Obispo was recently rated the happiest city in America by the Oprah Winfrey show.

People flock to the area, seeking homes that reflect the bucolic beauty and quiet. “There is a sophisticated population here that can appreciate what I do,” he said. “They have an aesthetic sense and understand the value of what I do for them.”

Showing his eye for detail, Small said the small details of design are just as important as the big picture. He recalls designing a little Monet’s garden and a column with wisteria for a painter client’s office complex.

“We all enjoy a little glimpse of beauty, and I enjoy the moments of happiness I can give people. That’s when I get joy from what I do,” Small said.

Business is thriving. On any given day, Small has 12 to18 concurrent projects in different stages. Happy with his firm, he has no aspirations for a large corporate office.

Small gets to know clients on a personal level, understands their needs and delivers a tranquil, soothing, natural environment. ALT

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We would like to thank Jess and Bill at Make Architecture for their continued support. We wish you all the best.

Ferrante Koberling Inc. is a full service construction rm specializing in hospitality, retail, oďŹƒce tenant improvement, adaptive re-use, commercial landscape and custom residential.

Ferrante Koberling Construction

Los Angeles

San Francisco

www.ferrantekoberling.com 323.206.1663

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San Diego

MIDWEST

INSIDE: MEISNER & ASSOCIATES, R.S. BICKFORD & COMPANY, CUSTOM AQUARIUMS BY DESIGN, GMK ARCHITECTURE

The Corrigan House Photo courtesy of GMK Architecture, inc.

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MEISNER+ASSOCIATES/LAND VISION

MASTER PLANNING: THE GREENEST IN OHIO

by Marylyn Simpson

Meisner + Associates/Land Vision began pioneering the landscape architecture and planning of greater Cincinnati in 1979. The firm’s designers solve a breadth of industry challenges, from small urban projects, such as university campuses, hospitals, cemeteries and gardens, to completing Ohio’s largest green roof and land-use vision plans that span over 100 square miles. Their work has impacted the Ohio and northern Kentucky region.

Specialization in urban planning, master planning and site design, reliant on detailed contract documents, requires a multi-talented staff. Planning land-use visioning, watershed analysis and vast green infrastructure assignments demands a broad-stroke, expert eye. Detailing complex construction sites requires a thorough mechanic.

Through every phase of each project, Meisner’s team leaves no detail overlooked.

Research and science is essential to the firm’s work. Each project begins by evaluating natural resources, potential water and air quality issues, sustainable materials, storm water management, long term cost savings and technical innovations. The firm brings custom solutions to each project and carefully weighs relationships between conservation, growth and development. “We adapt to the different scales of our projects, local ecologies, natural resources, history and cultural resources,” said Gary Meisner, president. “When you’re working on projects in the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley areas, you’re dealing with the history of glacial 64 Spring 2011

process, the evolution of plant and animal ecologies, resource extraction and urban growth. Soils range from sand and gravel in Michigan to heavy clays in southern Ohio, so there’s variance, both in climate and soil condition that you have to deal with. You need to look at the science carefully before planning and designing.”Beyond science, the firm excels in its ability to service a wide client base. Ready for any challenge, Meisner

THIS PAGE & OPPOSITE TOP: Ohio Governer’s Residence, Bexley, Ohio. Ohio’s diverse landscapes and First Families provide the design framework for the governor’s residence's garden master plan. From the Lake Erie dune garden to the prairie, woodland and Appalachian gardens, the site tells a unique story of Ohio’s ecology and natural history. Each of Ohio’s First Families have made an imprint upon Ohio’s cultural history. Those stories are interpreted hand-in-hand with the stories of ecology, native plants and agriculture within this learning garden. Photo courtesy of Meisner + Associates/Land Vision.

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says he welcomes projects that are intellectually demanding. Sometimes this leads to assisting a client in assessing the return on investment for proposed improvements and development, or assisting a municipality to assess how to capture positive return on conservation, urban growth and land use change. Adapting to these client driven challenges has allowed for company expansion and development, both fiscally and geographically.

Using this philosophy, the company plans for future growth and development opportunities while maintaining a keen eye for projects connected to conservation and preservation of sensitive ecological, archaeological and historical sites. Meisner was inspired to pursue a career in landscape architecture after his studies at Michigan State University exposed him to the works of such notable designers as Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, Mexican architect Luis Barragan and Japanese American environmental artist and sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Internships at Detroit’s HuronClinton Metro Authority, Fairfax County Virginia’s Park District and the City of East Lansing shaped his design perspective. After graduating, Meisner launched his career in Akron, Ohio as a city design administrator.

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There, he sharpened leadership skills while managing a staff of architects, landscape architects, planners and horticulturalists and working with signature consulting landscape architects. Assignments involved all aspects of city design. Meisner revived residential districts, redeveloped the downtown, restored aging business districts, envisioned new transportation improvements -- from roads and bridges to green streets -- advanced living sound walls, adapted buildings for reuse, improved old canals and bikeways and drafted historic preservation plans. After his experience in Akron, Meisner joined an existing Cincinnati office, where he began Meisner and Associates. With its masterful staff, the firm offers expertise in architecture, industrial design, planning, landscape preservation and restoration, town planning, cemetery history and design, sustainable technologies and 3-D animation. Focused on government and institutional projects, including urban design, historic sites and urban cemeteries, Meisner emphasizes the importance of creating a learning experience with each project. The firm prioritizes the needs of the client, but also serves the general public experiencing the work firsthand. “We enjoy making urban design and LEFT: The Fernald Restoration Project, Ohio. For decades, Fernald produced nuclear bomb materials secretly on Ohio farmland until it was determined that people were getting cancer, soils were contaminated and the water table was polluted. The findings led to a multibillion dollar clean up and Meisner + Associates / Land Vision assisted UC, The Department of Energy, and Glaserworks with the design of landscape restoration at the new visitors center. Trails, new wetlands, prairie and reforestation were part of the site's transformation. The visitor center is a mini-museum that tells the story of what is now a 1,000 acre preserve. This was Ohio's first LEED-Platinum project. Photo courtesy of Meisner + Associates/Land Vision. Photo courtesy of U.S. Department of Energy, file photo.

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THIS PAGE: Community Mercy Medical Center, Springfield, Ohio. In collaboration with Champlin Architects six urban blocks were turned into a unique landscaped campus of alles, garden terraces, therapy gardens and Ohio's largest green roof, to uplift spirits and provide places to sit, relax and retreat from the pressures of hospital life.

Photo courtesy of Meisner + Associates/Land Vision.

historic preservation a learning experience,” Meisner said. “Good design is functional and aesthetically beautiful, but also sustainable.

A great design is so much more. It can tell an important story through the landscape, site architecture and art. As a story, the design is engaging and educating the public on a higher plane. Much of the public space design we are involved in includes learning, sometimes symbolic and subtle and sometimes more textbook. This is what place-making is about. It’s design with a capital “D” and sustainable design is more than just a passing fad.”Sustainability is what has kept Meisner a step ahead. With a primary client base of government, institutions and sustainable organizations looking at alternative energy and native landscape solutions, Meisner and his team yield expertise in sustainable design, natural resources, plants, soils and alternative energy to create design solutions that are functional, efficient, enduring and aesthetically pleasing. As many designers are just now realizing the importance of sustainability, Meisner and his team have made it a focal point of their designs for decades. In aesthetic illustration, their visual therapy gardens at hospitals is “…an emerging art form that is based upon both sustainability and art,” Meisner said.

“Whether you define sustainability as reducing energy cost in buildings, planning environmentally responsible sites, lowering operational costs or reducing impact on water management, it’s important to know that sustainability is more than words.

It’s action. Clearly there has been a very thoughtful evolution over the past 15 years to 66 Spring 2011

discuss sustainability at the forefront and look for more holistic solutions to urban - suburban planning and design that include truly sustainable ideas that improve public health, safety and welfare. Our philosophy has been to leave the “definitions” to the historians later; explore all the possibilities now.”

Looking ahead, Meisner said, “Success is not about changing what professionals know.

It’s knowing how to rely on the ageless, basic principles of good planning, and adapting them to today’s world. Sun wind, rain, snow, oceans, rivers, flora, fauna and earth are still with us today. We will always need to consider these basics and plan ahead. A brighter future will be one that relies more on conserving natural resources and reducing energy use.

Future growth, development and the success of landscape architecture will be with those who “listen to the land best.”Always a step ahead, the Land Vision designers continue to expand their approach to maximizing natural resources and tackling daunting projects. In today’s communication savvy world, Meisner and his team have new dreams for the future, hoping to launch their landscape influence across the globe. “In a shrinking world with an expanding communications network, perhaps we can influence change in a wider circle. Perhaps we can bring meaningful change to others. The only real success in planning and design is to better serve our clients and the public.” ALT

THE VERDIN CO. Family owned since 1842, The Verdin Company specializes in the design and manufacture of bells, bell and clock towers and street clocks. Verdin recently acquired Canterbury International, a leader in site amenities.

Together, Verdin and Canterbury offer the finest in original design creating focal points and art forms for public spaces. For more information on Verdin, visit www.verdin.com.

MELINK Melink is a premier developer of large commercial solar PV systems and provides roofmount, ground-mount and carport solutions.

Melink also manufactures a 2kW pre-engineered solar PV system to promote mainstream renewable energy technologies. Melink walks the talk with a LEED Platinum headquarters and near-zero energy. For more information visit www.melinkcorp.com.

custom homes

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A Personal Touch Focusing on people above buildings, R.S. Bickford & Company has been designing residences around the country that mean just a little bit more to everyone involved.

by Joel Cornell

“Many of my colleagues ask how I can put up with residential clients, who are typically a couple or family who often disagree on one infinitesimal detail or another,” said Scott Bickford, founder and principal of R.S. Bickford & Company. “I’ll turn around and wonder how they can work with large corporations and conglomerates behind walls of red tape.

To me, the personal relationship involved in residential projects produces a much more rewarding project, and likewise a much more successful project.”

These sentiments express the reputation that R.S. Bickford & Company has maintained over the past 30 years. Bickford has built his success upon a foundation of dedication to the ideals and values so many architects only talk about. In spite of, or perhaps because of, having never worked in an architectural firm outside his own, Bickford’s uniquely personal journey to the heart of every project, no matter how large or small, has yielded a ceaseless flow of clients throughout even the most disheartening economic times.

Like many architects, Bickford completed his

degree and immediately joined a small local firm. His degree in architecture from Kansas State University was granted in 1978, and that year he began gaining experience as a working architect. However, things were certainly not as they seemed.

As his boss was rarely in the office, Bickford was left with no one to turn to for any technical questions on his designs or the firm’s plans. Naturally, he turned to the people who would have some of the most relevant advice: the contractors and builders for the projects.

Time and time again, Bickford reached out to the contractors and builders for whom he was developing construction documents. As lasting relationships began to build, the contractors and builders began to hold Bickford, exclusive of the firm’s reputation, in the highest regard. After a year of employment, Bickford discovered that his employer was not actually an architect, licensed or otherwise. The professionally dangerous prospect of working for an unlicensed, yet operational architect was unacceptable for Bickford.

He left the firm with no concrete future in

mind. But as he received frequent calls from the contractors and builders with whom he had built relationships and with demand knocking at his door, he decided to begin supplying that demand. In 1979, Bickford acquired his own license and founded Residential Design Studio. In 1989, now with a handful of partners, it evolved into R.S. Bickford and Company.

“After I had left the firm, I dove headfirst into an economic recession with no prospects for employment,” Bickford said. “I have always been of the mindset that you should only draw what you know how to build, and being a young architect, I had many, many questions.

I learned to talk with builders on a personal level and I learned firsthand how they work and what they need. Several of the builders I’d worked with so closely before kept asking me to do drawing after drawing for them, and I was certainly in no position to refuse.”

The firm was founded on personal relationships, practicality and flexibility and over the years it has developed a legacy of the finest craftsmanship. Bickford has come to understand that to capture a client’s ideal personal Architecture Leaders Today 67

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space, the architect must have a personal and rigorous approach to design.

“I’ve been quite frequently told that our best strengths are in listening and understanding,” Bickford said. “I tend to get more involved in a client’s life than most other architects might.

I think it’s because of my own desires to make sure that when we begin to work on a project, I am truly working to fulfill the client’s own interest and desires, even desires of which they might not yet be aware. We are always asking questions about the client’s intended use, lifestyle, aesthetic style and their need for different forms of functionality. It can be a meticulous and at times onerous process, but in the end, the final result is always greater for it.

“From builders, we frequently hear the most surprising complements. The one that strikes me the most interesting is that the builders say our plans are easy to build with few questions. I never knew that could be a problem; I thought immediately buildable construction documents went without saying. My style of design has always taken into account the fact that the client’s desires and the builder’s needs always come first. Perhaps that’s why I have never adopted one specific preferential style, because not every client is going to want the

ROCK COTTAGE GLASSWORKS Rock Cottage Glassworks is an American glass blowing studio that specializes in the design and fabrication of custom lighting fixtures. RCG works with designers, architects and homeowners to create artistic lighting for hospitality, commercial and residential settings.

Each piece is a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted work of art. For more information, please visit www. rockcottageglassworks.com.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN LOG HOMES Located in the heart of Montana’s Bitterroot Valley is one of the most trusted names in log homes. Over three decades ago, Rocky Mountain Log Homes was built on the belief that a log home is very personal. RMLH values and stresses innovation in every aspect of their company. From harvesting only dry-standing timber to precise milling techniques to Old World handcrafting, these procedures result in the most beautiful, functional homes in the world. Learn more about the Rocky Difference at www.rmlh.com.

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same thing. Without that personal relationship, the project will have far less meaning to all parties involved.”

While Bickford and his firm have always worked hard to maintain proper relationships with clients and builders, differences do arise.

One particular element of design that he prioritizes differently from client to client is the focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.

“On one hand, we’re at a point in society where every client, builder and designer must say that 70 Spring 2011

they want to be green or use sustainable materials” Bickford said. “Not that anyone doesn’t want to be green, but often when it comes down to priorities and budgeting, that’s not always at the top of the list. The design process involves balancing desires, budget and expectations with the client’s priorities in mind. Often we can show that by using sustainable products we can meet the client’s priority of budget and also fulfill the desire for low maintenance and being green.” ALT

UNITED HEATING, COOLING & PLUMBING United Heating, Cooling & Plumbing was founded by brothers Joe and Jerry Lambert and best friend Mark McWilliams. When they started United in 1990, they did so with one fundamental premise that still holds true today: do what you say you’re going to do. United Heating, Cooling & Plumbing never wavers on their commitments. For more information, visit www.unitedheating.com.

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Custom Aquariums

by Design Adding that little extra something to a home or office, Custom Aquariums by Design offers their clients not just amazing service but the beauty and magic of the ocean.

by Amelia Doenlen

Whether it's a simple 20-gallon aquarium in an office waiting room or a huge, thousand-gallon specialty aquarium for a custom home, the Kansas City-based company Custom Aquariums by Design has done it.

“The largest project we’ve ever done was probably a 3,000 gallon shark pond in a custom home,” said Chris Owens, owner and founder. “The owner had sharks, stingrays, puffer fish and all kinds of interesting odd-ball creatures.”

Owens grew up in the pet industry. His parents opened their own pet store in 1973, which is still in business today. When his parents’ shop got busy, Owens’ father had clients complain about having to clean their fish tank. What started as a little job to make some spending money when he was 16, developed into a full-time job throughout college.

In 2005, Owens launched his own business, branching out from his parents’ company in order to focus solely on aquariums. Aquariums 72 Spring 2011

by Design covers the Kansas City area and stretches as far north as De Moines and as far south as Oklahoma City. Owens stays involved with every aspect of the business from management responsibilities like schedules and accounting to installation and design.

Through word of mouth and referrals, the company has maintained a strong client base of both residential and commercial projects over the years. Deciding what the client wants is the always the first step.

“We sit down with a client with research and information,” Owens said. “Some people want a more hands on tank. They might like to scuba dive. Others don’t have specifics in mind. We try to steer them in the direction of a very sustainable, healthy combination of fish and corals or whatever it might be.”

Once the plan is laid out Owens and his team order the aquarium and outsource the fish from all over; they often come as far as the

Fiji Islands or the Mediterranean depending on the client’s desires.

From there, the inside of the tank is designed and the fish arrive and are acclimated on a schedule that Owens sets with the client. Routine maintenance schedules for care and cleaning can also be set up.

Owens believes quality and customer service really sets his company apart from competitors.

“A lot of the products that we use are private label products of a very high quality,” he said. “The aquariums that we use come from the same companies that build a lot of the zoo and public aquariums around the country.”

Custom Aquariums strives for the most natural approach to each project. “We try to recreate Mother Nature as closely as possible. And as simple as that sounds, when salt water aquariums came about people tried to sterilize the environment and that wasn’t as good for the fish. We try to create something as natural as possible which creates a healthy environment for the fish," Owens said. "When the fish are happy the customers are happy.”

One of their most precarious projects was for a custom home built

by Bickford & Company. The house is built into a hill and a local hauling/rigging company was called in to lift the 1,000 pound aquarium over and around then house, then through the downstairs window to the installation site. The tank will sit empty for about a year until the building is completed. Then, Owens will pick back up and within a few months, the aquarium will be up and running for when the clients move in.

Like so many businesses, however, Custom Aquariums has felt the economic shift over the years. “We aren’t putting in aquariums like we used to,” Owens said. “While people are still building homes, they aren’t going to install a five or $10,000 aquarium project to save on costs.”

In addition to decreased custom projects, aquariums in corporate offices and lobbies have also decreased. “When a company needs to cut costs,” he said, “things like aquariums are often the first thing to go. We try to work with the clients on pricing plans for servicing.

About half the time we keep the client and half the time we don’t.

Some people just have their minds made up.”

Owens feels confident about the future of his company, despite the economy right now. “In the immediate future we are just trying to maintain the status quo,” he said. “No matter what the economy we always get new clients here and there. Continued growth is always what we are going for and nowadays, things are just slow growing. In the next five to 10 years, our goal is to expand to out-of-town markets.” ALT

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The Nature of Design

by Amelia Doenlen

Embracing both technology and the beauty of the outdoors, GMK Architecture, inc. uses the inspiring scenery of Wisconsin to create pleasing, state-of-the-art designs for their clients.

THIS SPREAD: Graber, private residence. Photo by Jim Wildeman.

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s technology has advanced over the years, architects have learned to roll with the punches. New computer software literally brought another dimension to the table and while the advancements have both positives and negatives, Jim Gempeler, co-founder of GMK Architecture, inc., believes that it has played a crucial role in “taking down the curtain” between architect and client.

Gempeler remembers the days when modeling was done entirely by hand and, in order to show a client a 3-D version of the plan, he had to construct the cardboard model himself.

“Nowadays with 3-D modeling,” Gempeler said, “you can really use those programs from day one to keep the client more involved in the decision making process. They can see what impact they are going to have on the composition right away and that keeps them more engaged.”

Gempeler grew up on a farm in southern Wisconsin. His mother used to take him to see notable buildings in nearby cities. Gempeler credits his background as the cornerstone of his architecture career. “On the farm, I learned very early how to fix and build things and how to be pretty resourceful as far as making things work to serve a function or purpose.

Gempeler, Bill Montelbano and Russ Kowalski started GMK Architecture, inc. in 1984. Gempeler and Kowalski run the firm today. Over the 27 years they have been in business, the firm has adapted to changes in the industry. Starting as, what Gempeler described as “general practice” architects, the firm has become more specialized.

Both Gempeler and Kowalski have embraced their specialties and the firm now operates two distinct studios. Kowalski runs the commercial and retail studio while Gempeler focuses on custom residential and vacation homes.

“I’ve always found residential work to be very interesting,” Gempeler said, “because people tend to get more passionate about what they do when they are talking about houses that they will be growing in and raising a family in. One of the biggest rewards for me has been that you start out with a client, and end up with great friends.”

The two studios have somewhat different requirements as far as technology. When the firm started, they were drawing everything by hand and building models. As computer software has developed it’s given the firm more options.

Today, the commercial studio uses AutoCAD as its main drafting program whereas the residential studio relies entirely on Revit due to its greater ability to produce 3-D models and illustrations.

“The tools available today are a huge change from when we started,” Gempeler said. “The biggest thing is how the technological tools connect the client to the project. It lets them understand everything and see everything better, TOP LEFT: Graber, private residence. The interior living room in this home features exposed wood beams and high ceilings. Photo by Jim Wildeman.

THIS SPREAD: Corrigan, private residence. The lakeside home features an interior stone wall with a fireplace, large windows and exposed wood ceilings, creating a natural but inviting living space. Photos by Jim Gempeler.

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THIS SPREAD: The living room fireplace in the Corrigan residence.

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which in return allows us to do more sculptural buildings and more complex compositions. I think it’s hugely unfair to hand a client a twodimensional sketch or plan and expect them to be able to take everything that is in our mind as architects and understand it.”

From the preliminary stages of design to the construction phase of a project, plans are always printed in full-color, even the construction documents. Gempeler feels that it is important to communicate to all parties the final outcome of the project. In his mind, a picture truly is worth a thousand words and there isn’t any reason to keep the design details from the people physically putting it all together. The firm provides 3-D camera angles and perspectives on the same document that has elevation dimensions for the contractors.

“It’s a more model intensive approach through and through,” Gempeler said.

Based in Madison, Wis., GMK designs projects throughout the state with some regional work stretching into neighboring states. While most people think of Colorado or Florida as quintessential vacation home destinations, Gempeler is adamant about the beauty of his home state. The diverse topography throughout the state as well as the lakes and streams and majestic forests have been rewarding to GMK in the way of business.

While the beauty of the landscape plays a role in the design of the house, so does the climate.

Gempeler pointed out that it is crucial to know the environment you are designing for. Temperature swings in Wisconsin range from 105 degrees to 20 below zero, putting strains on a building that architects in more temperate climates would not have to consider.

“Every climate has its gremlins that local experts have learned how to handle, and in designing for different climates, you better take that into account,” Gempeler said. “The vacations spots have certainly offered some very interesting and fun projects over the years. More than once we’ve started doing a vacation house for someone and they end up having so much fun and loving it so much that they don’t want to leave and it becomes their permanent residence.”

“Clients move here because they want the landscape to be part of their lives and part of their living environment,” Gempeler said. “In the residential work that we do we try to dissolve that transition of indoors to outdoors and we want it to be gradual and transparent. As a design philosophy, we’re just trying to get out of the way of nature. We aren’t trying to compete with the natural beauty of the environment, but connect with it. We want to make window walls and not windows in a wall.

We like to get out of the way and let the natural beauty be part of the home as much as possible.”

It’s a love of the great outdoors coupled with a passion for beautiful design that yields GMK the opportunity to create breathtaking homes that embrace the best of both worlds. ALT THIS PAGE: Shephard, private residence. Designed with sweeping views of the mountains in mind, this home is perfectly situated to offer beautiful vistas from each room.

An outdoor patio features a pool, while the interior pays special attention to natural elements and finishes. Photos by Jim Gempeler.

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LOPEZ CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN INC. Lopez Construction & Design, Inc. is a full service general contacting company specializing in high-end residential and commercial construction. A multigenerational, family owned and operated corporation, they thrive on projects that challenge and excite. Chuck Lopez, president, has been building in Western Colorado for over 35 years. Hard work, honesty and integrity are the foundation that this company has been built on. By merging Old-World craftsmanship and new technology, Lopez Construction & Design, Inc. has become a leader in Western Colorado’s construction industry. Partnering with Energy Star, strategic subcontractors and vendors, they are leading the way in energy efficient construction.For more information on Lopez Construction please visit www.lopezcd.com.

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DON STEVENS, INC.

A TRUSTED DISTRIBUTOR TO THE LODGING, FOOD SERVICE AND HVAC MARKETS.

by Joel Cornell

Don Stevens, Inc. has been providing reliable, quality distribution services for nearly half a century. Their legacy of excellence has firmly established the company as the premiere distributor for over 400,000 square miles covering North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

“Especially throughout the Midwest, but also nationwide for our lodging customers, we have minimized logistical problems for many of our customers by having seven fully stocked warehouses,” said lodging sales manager Dale Boyer. “We started in the early 1960s headquartered in Eagan, Minn., a suburb of St. Paul, as reps within the food service industry.

Many of our clients are spread out over vast distances throughout Minnesota and surrounding areas, which made acquiring their equipment a logistical nightmare.

What we've established is giving them overnight access to the equipment, replacement parts and the service they need to keep their businesses strong.”

Since their founding, Don Stevens, Inc. has drastically expanded their services, their products and their reach. In 1988, the company became a major player as a distributor within the lodging and hospitality industries. Through their partnership with Amana Package Terminal Air Conditioners, they have set up an entirely separate sales and service division to fully support this market. Today, they are one of the few distributors offering both air conditioning and food service equipment

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to the lodging and hospitality industries.

“Our goal is to have the right product available, at the right time, every time, at a fair price. We realize from time to time an unforeseen situation may arise,” Boyer said. "Whether it’s our fault or no one’s fault at all, we promise to resolve the situation immediately for our clients. We learned a long time ago that what you sell is only as good as the level of service you provide to your customer base."

Currently planning to extend their range even further throughout the country, Don Stevens, Inc. has uniquely qualified employees with the experience to meet the needs of any customer, any time, anywhere.

regional marketplace

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SOUTH

INSIDE: WYK ARCHITECTS, SDS ARCHITECTURE, REEDER CONSTRUCTION, LLW ARCHITECTS, TURNER, RAMIREZ & ASSOCIATES, TURNER & TOWNSEND, BENDER & ASSOCIATES

The Hampton Inn, Mobile, Ala. Photo courtesy of LLW Architects

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WYK ASSOCIATES

designing buildings that fit peoples' needs

by Joan Tupponce

“Our company roots date back to the early 1900s,” said James Swiger, president of WYK Associates. “We have over 100 years of drawings in our files and archives.” With a century’s experience under its belt, it’s natural for a firm to have dozens of stand-out projects to showcase.

Forefront in WYK’s history is the West Pike Street government parking facility in Clarksburg, W.V. The project won a 2007 Merit Award from the West Virginia AIA. Now a Clarksburg hub, the multi-use pavilion hosts a variety of events, from farmers markets to weddings and private parties.

“This block within the historic district of downtown had fallen to years of blight and neglect,” Swiger said. “We teamed with local architect Ralph Pedersen, for his extensive demolition and historical experience. We tore down everything but two corner buildings on the block.”

Prior to demolition, the State Historic Preservation Office undertook a historical study and review of the building.. The new project added underground utilities and a storm water management system.

Topping the upper level of a two-tier parking facility, WYK added a translucent-paneled “band shell.”

“We designed the facility in a way that the railings can be removed on the center portion to use it as a stage for public events,” Swiger said.

In efforts to preserve the historic district, WYK created an inconspicuous facility design, complimentary to adjacent properties. “We used brick and limestone so it blended,” he said. “We also used stamped asphalt paving to create a brick pattern in the driving aisles.”

During WYK’s design phase, the firm helped the city see the project as more than just a parking garage. “As discussions went further it was determined it would be more useable to create a town square atmosphere,” Swiger said. “It worked very nicely.”

The Christie-Cutlip Office Complex, in the prestigious Charles Pointe Development off Interstate 79’s technology corridor, offers another spotlight on the company’s design THIS SPREAD: Bank of Gassaway. Natural daylight at the drive-thru canopy provides same level of detail to vehicular users as walk-up customers inside the building. The lobby of the bank features a unique brick entry “cylinder”.

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THIS SPREAD: West Pike Street Parking Facility. This facility was recently named “Jackson Square” in honor of Stonewall Jackson, whose birthplace was located directly behind. The structure serves multiple functions and fits in nicely with the historic fabric of downtown.

expertise.

This two-story, 12,000 sq. ft. office complex, completed in 2007, was one of Charles Pointe Development’s first erected buildings. Prominent along the skyline, the complex is highly visible from the Harrison-Marion Airport and Route 279 connector to the airport. “The client wanted a building that was timeless in character; something that would endure, with quality materials and design,” Swiger said.

WYK’s durable designs incorporated large glass expanses around the arched entrance.

“We wrapped the building with two bands of brick detailing, using different colors and patterns,” Swiger said. “Inside, we used glass blocks in the stairwell to create visual interest and allow natural daylight to come into the space.”

The firm also designed a clock tower for the building, to add to its prominence. “It also functions to provide the time for everyone in the development,” Swiger said.

Charles Pointe’s complex includes many green elements, such as large overhangs to provide shade in summer and to harness the sun’s warmth in winter. All offices in the building have operable windows for natural ventilation.

“We used high-efficiency lighting throughout the project,” Swiger said. “The ceilings had high acoustic values to prevent sound transfer from one office to another.”

Dark-tinted windows were used to reduce solar heat gain during the summer and to create privacy from the outside. “It also made the detail of the window stand out more by having

CONTRACTING ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS CEC congratulates James Swiger and WYK Associates on their achievements.

The WYK and CEC team enjoys an ongoing working relationship. CEC is a structural and miscellaneous AISC steel fabricator using a state-of-the-art 3-D modeling system and CNC automated fabrication equipment. The provide quality, on-time sequenced deliveries throughout the eastern states. For more information on CEC, please visit www.cecsteel.com

BELDEN BRICK Belden Brick, a nationally recognized leader in brick manufacturing since 1885, is proud to offer an extensive line of face brick and clay brick pavers. Belden’s products are long-lasting because of their durable nature and faderesistant color. They deliver a permanence that remains unmatched by any other building material. Belden products have an outstanding reputation for performing well under the most demanding of climates and conditions. Belden has a product that is sure to add beauty and elegance to any style of architecture. With hundreds of colors, sizes and textures to choose from, you won’t have to compromise aesthetics for durability.

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We designed the facility in a way that the

railings can be removed on the center portion so it can be used as a stage for public events.

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O ur company roots date back to the early 1900s. We have over 100 years of drawings in our files and archives. a dark glass,” Swiger said, noting that the green design also carried over to the parking lot. “The light fixtures shine straight down on the parking surface so they don’t allow light pollution.”

When it came to complex’s flooring, WYK utilized terrazzo tile with 70 percent recycled content. The building’s design also included two outdoor decks on the second floor and a patio off the ground level.

“It was a fun project to work on,” he said.

“The owners really wanted to do things right.

We spent special attention to detail.”

Not all projects are easy from the start. Swiger recalls the challenges faced in designing a new branch of The Bank of Gassaway. The bank had to be built on a commercial strip, highly visible from I-79, including a McDonald’s, an antique mall and a car dealership.

“They needed a building that would stand out within the context of the commercial strip,” Swiger said. “They wanted a very unique building that would be identifiable as a bank during day and night.”

Since many of the strip’s buildings were metal or painted brick, WYK designed an attractive

brick façade for The Bank of Gassaway. “It was a nice use of materials and colors,” Swiger said.

“There are a couple historic towns a few miles away, so we pulled some details from those and put them into the building.”

WYK used different colors of brick and stone in the project and installed large translucent skylights over the drive-thru and in the lobby.

“We were trying to make a strong connection with the vehicle and the building,” Swiger said.

“We created natural light in the drive-thru so it doesn’t feel closed in.”

The design also included a very distinct entry “cylinder” that gives the impression of strength and security from the exterior. The light-flooded lobby is centered on axis with the vault. “When you walk in, the first thing you see is the vault,” Swiger said. “It makes a statement of permanence and security. We wanted to play up the presence of the vault.”

WYK also utilized green features in The Bank of Gassaway project, including a high-valued insulation on roof and walls, long overhangs, carpeting and floor finishes with recycled material, and paperless drywall to reduce mold. The

firm also used high-efficiency lighting throughout the building with dimmable switching in each office. “We used high reflective acoustic ceiling tile that reflects light off the ceiling,” Swiger said. “It also reduces the chance of glare.

It’s a more comfortable lighting.”

Beyond design specifics, the firm surmounted the site’s size challenges. “It’s a tight site,” Swiger said. “We wanted to allow room for landscaping and to have some tie-in to the setting. I think we were able to do that by making a very efficient floor plan.”

In the end, WYK satisfied its clients desire to stand out along its commercial strip. Over The Bank of Gassway’s main entrance, WYK added a clock, harkening to the banks of yesteryear.

“The clock can be seen from the interstate,” Swiger said. ALT

THIS PAGE: The Christie-Cutlip Building. An assemblance of traditional materials are detailed to reflect the rich architectural heritage of the region. The project features intricate brickwork and beautiful glassblock.

Photos courtesy of WYK Associates

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SDS ARCHITECTURE

WITH 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, THIS DALLAS-BASED FIRM HAS A UNIQUE BLEND OF EXPERTISE THAT LEAVES ITS EVERY CLIENT SATISFIED.

by Felicia Willis

Growing up in Mexico, Sergio De Los Santos began dreaming about architecture as a small child. In 1996, when he founded SDS Architecture in the United States, his dreams came true. Now president of SDS, Sergio was never questioned putting into practice his architecture degree from the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, in Monterrey, Mexico. De Los Santos came to the U.S.in 1980, spent 12 years with HKS, a large architecture firm based in Dallas and served as vice president and director of Latin America services for Aguirre Inc. Today, his firm provides building assessment services and program management. SDS Architecture’s five person team has expertise in all phases of project management and design.

While the company’s coverage ranges from sports facilities to multipurpose high-rise commercial buildings, most of SDS’s projects fall into the educational sector. De Los Santos oversees several school projects currently developed by staff architects. One such project is remodeling North Lake College. “The college was built about 35 years ago. Due to their changing and growing needs, new buildings have been added to the campus. As a result, a lot of pockets of unused space were left behind in older buildings,” De Los Santos said. North Lake College in Irving, Texas is part of the Dallas County Community College District.

“We helped the campus repurpose the various spaces to fulfill the school’s current and future needs. That was our goal,” he said.

North Lake project is a design/build effort.

The renovation consists of approximately 40,000 sq. ft. of existing areas, with a construction budget of about $3.5 million. SDS teamed up with Phillips/May Corporation and was the

prime architect for the project.

Another of SDS’ education projects was the D. A. Hulcy Middle School in Dallas, Texas. The school was originally built in 1970 as three-story brick masonry building. The renovation of the school entailed many interior and exterior upgrades, including replacing the roof, a new sprinkler system, restroom and shower overhaul, renovation of the ceiling, transformation of the science lab, and other technology work.

Overall, the construction cost was $1.8 million.

A combined education project renovated two Dallas-based schools, Julius Dorsey Elementary School and B.H. Macon Elementary School.

Completed in 2008, the renovation addressed various interior and exterior upgrades, including building envelope, ADA and critical MEP upgrades, restrooms renovation, lighting reconstruction, grease trap improvement, interior and exterior doors and windows replacement, irrigation system and new playground equipment. SDS served as prime architecture consultant for the $2.2 million project.

While the firm considers educational buildings its forte, SDS has also renovated and constructed correctional facilities, restaurants and sports facilities in Texas, and across the U.S. and Mexico. SDS has tackled high-profile projects such as serving as associate architect for the American Airlines Center. In addition, SDS was part of multinational architectural teams for the City Center of MGM Mirage in Las Vegas, Nev. and a soccer stadium for the Santos Laguna team in Mexico.

One of SDS’ largest projects was the mixed-use high-rise building at the MGM City Center in the heart of Las Vegas. At the core of the Las Vegas strip, the building’s futuristic design is

described as a city within a city. The structure has its own convention center, theater and police and fire stations. The surrounding area comprises a quarter-mile stretch, with 2,800 residential condo units, 66 acres of cafes and two 400-room boutique hotels along a boulevard built to the exact dimensions of New York City’s Park Avenue. At the center of this Manhattan replica is a 4,000 room hotel/casino.

This hotel/casino has broken records in the field of construction expenditure. It provides shopping, dining and entertainment, specially designed for the residents of the city within a city. The team at SDS provided construction documents support for this hotel/casino project as part of a multinational team of architectural companies.

Another astronomical project was the Estadio Corona sports facility, which opened its doors in Torreon, Mexico in July 2009. This sports venue is home to the Santos Laguna soccer club. Its standard capacity is 28,000 people, 20,000 for special events, and is located on the Territorio Santos Modelo sports complex. Territorio Santos Modelo’s educational and entertainment elements feature Corona Fan Restaurant Sports Bar, Club Santos Laguna Club House, Football School and Academy Santos Laguna, offices of Club Santos Laguna, a gym, the first hotel in Latin America with a view to a stadium, mall and entertainment, University of Sports and a parking lot with 2,504 spaces. At the reigns of the project, SDS oversaw project management assistance and construction documents support.

With over 25 years of experience in the architecture field, SDS brings a unique and valuable blend of expertise to its customers. And while the backbone of SDS remains educational architecture, the company isn’t pigeonholed in the industry. In its newest endeavor, SDS is upgrading the Greyhound offices and bus terminal in downtown Dallas. “We are trying to penetrate the transportation market,” De Los Santos said. ALT

PHILLIPS MAY Known for its delivery of quality, innovation and performance, Phillips May is recognized among the top 100 general contractors in the State of Texas. They are a cooperative, solution-oriented professional team, sensitive to schedules and budget goals. Their commitment to continuing business relationships and client satisfaction results in 90% of their business being from repeat business or referrals. Their clients include such major public entities as the DISD, DFW International Airport, DART, and UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas. Phillips May is a minority-owned general contractor certified by the NCTRCA, and their markets include K-12, Higher Education, Municipal, Healthcare Facilities, Transportation, and Retail. For more information please visit www.phillipsmay.com 92 Spring 2011

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ALL PART OF THE FAMILY

FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS, REEDER GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, INC. HAS ENDEAVOREDTO TURN CLIENTS INTO FAMILY.

by Joel Cornell

Wes Reeder began working as a framing carpenter in the 1960s through the late 1970s. After gaining a wide range of experience in construction across many sectors in the Dallas - Fort Worth, Texas area, Wes took that experience, applied it and decided to strike out on his own.

In 1986, Wes founded W.R. Contractors.

Over the course of just a few years, the company grew within the area by leaps and bounds. The Reeder name was always preceded by its reputation for honest, quality work, all done with a familial and heartfelt dedication to doing the best work possible. Four years later, in 1990, the company grew beyond even its own means and restructured.

That year, the company incorporated and Reeder General Construction, Inc. was born.

“We’ve always been dedicated to our clients and our work in the same way that we are to each other,” said vice president, and Wes’ son, Lane.

“As a family owned and operated company, we always feel like there’s a bit more dedication involved on our part. When your own last name is on the business card and the business license, you work a bit harder than anyone else might in your position.”

Lane’s lifetime of experience in the industry and with the company exemplifies the best that family owned businesses can offer.

“All throughout middle school and high school, I spent much of my time working in even the slightest capacity on the company’s jobsites,” Lane said. “Whether I would just collect all the trash and scrap, or sweep up a job at the end of the day, I was constantly learning in a construction environment. I received my education from the University of Texas in architecture and in business, during which time I continued working in various capacities for Reeder. Upon graduation, I worked my way up as an apprentice, an assistant superintendent, before serving as superintendent on one the biggest job we had ever done.”

To date, the large majority of Reeder General Construction, Inc.’s projects take place in the education sector. Although their range extends far into residential, commercial, institutional and industrial projects, nearly 90 percent of their projects within the past 10 years have been construction on school buildings in the area.

“Every project type in every sector has a deadline,” Lane said. “But in the education sector, students will be starting school here in the fall, one way or another. The deadlines are much more strict than most other

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project types, and there’s a lot of difficulty to overcome in working in an occupied space. Not all renovation projects can wait until the summer to begin, so it takes a special dedication to be able to work abnormal hours in abnormal settings. This is where Reeder excels.”

Reeder General Construction offers a full suite of services to their clients, outside of general contracting services. In addition to total construction management services, the company also performs construction manager risk positioning services for owners of a project, in the education sector or otherwise. Lane’s brother, Cole, has been leading the company’s business development sector, further expanding the company’s reach and scope.

“For us, family culture means commitment to not only build great buildings, but to create an atmosphere that fosters lasting relationships. Our work with SDS Architecture has been a great example of this. Sergio [de los Santos] has been one of the best architects we’ve worked with in the educational sector. They always understand what we need and what the project needs. Sergio always maintained as much of a personal involvement as we always do, and it has been fantastic to work with someone with the same dedication as we have.”

With a heavy emphasis on accountability, integrity and dedication, Reeder General Construction has built up their scope and their reputation in a way that sets them apart from the rest as the most honest, hardest working contractor in the area.

“Our clients may come to us as family,” Lane said, “but they always leave a part of the family.” ALT

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Built in the heart of Texas A deep history of military experience runs through the veins of Turner, Ramirez & Associates, and today the firm has diversified to include a range of government and religious projects as well.

by Joan Tupponce 96 Spring 2011

government

Throughout his life Jack Turner has maintained a passion for architecture and the military.

Over the past 53 years, he’s combined the separate and distinct fields, both personally and professionally.

Hailing from the University of Texas, Turner began his Navy career in 1953. He founded the Texas-based architecture firm, Jack Rice Turner & Associates, Inc., in 1958, and served as a reserve officer for 37 years after active duty.

In 2008 the firm changed to Turner, Ramirez & Associates, when Philip Ramirez became partner. Ramirez had moved up with the company from his start as a high school intern.

Since starting the firm, Turner has tackled a variety of projects, including several military facilities, throughout Texas and New Mexico.

Earlier in his career, Turner was also involved in land development. His firm built the first

condominium projects in Laredo, McAllen and Harlingen, Texas, and three additional condominiums in Corpus Christi.

Over the years, projects have included 48 medical buildings throughout Texas, eight small county hospitals and three large shopping centers in Texas and Virginia.

“We did a lot of work up and down the Rio Grande River,” Turner said.

One of Turner’s most noteworthy projects was the La Posada Hotel in Laredo. “We built it around two swimming pools with Mexican fountains,” Turner said. “It had Spanish décor.

We did a second one in McAllen.”

Other company projects include police stations, county jails, restaurants and the first greyhound racetracks in Texas; one in Corpus Christi and one in Harlingen. “We’ve also worked on five or six historical projects such as the [Victorian

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landmark] Fulton Mansion which was built in 1856,” Turner said. “We also restored the oldest house in Corpus Christi, the Centennial House.”

Currently, the firm is working with the sisters of the Pax Christi on constructing a liturgical retreat center at their headquarters in Corpus Christi. “This will be an exciting new chapter of their mission here in Corpus Christi,” Ramirez said.

Through their work at the center, the sisters are committed to strengthening participants’ faith by spreading their spiritual beliefs and providing a sacred place to renew faith.

“This project represents the realization of a long-standing vision of Pax Christi founder, Mother Teresa Santoyo, to establish a liturgical retreat center in Corpus Christi,” Ramirez said.

The 10,500 sq. ft. chapel represents the heart of the center and will serve as the main congregatArchitecture Leaders Today 97

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ing space for worshipers. A 75-foot, free-span dome arcs over the chapel altar.

Additional buildings support the project’s retreat function. A 35,000 sq. ft., two-story dormitory building will house guests, with suites of one to two-beds and a full private bath.

The 8,097 sq. ft. reception hall will serve as a full-service cafeteria and meeting area.

Also, a 5,374 sq. ft. auditorium and a 2,465 sq. ft. administration building, will house a check-in area and a religious goods gift shop.

Construction is estimated to begin in the second quarter of 2011.

Among other specialties, Turner, Ramirez & Associates’ is an expert designer of military projects. In 2005, the firm completed the Austin Army Aviation Support Facility at AustinBergstrom International Airport. “The Texas Air National Guard uses this facility to train Blackhawk helicopter pilots and to provide protection for the state’s capitol,” Turner said.

As the first phase of a 60-acre master planned military complex, the facility includes a 95,921 sq. ft. rotary wing operations and support facility, a 43,407 sq. ft. unheated rotary wing storage facility and a 25,146 sq. ft. fixed wing operations and support facility. More than 1 million sq. ft. of aircraft tie-down areas and taxiways were constructed surrounding the complex.

“We’ve done 20 other military projects around Texas. “Including the Dallas Naval Air Station to train the Singapore Air Force to fly CH-47 Chinook helicopters,” Turner said Turner, Ramirez & Associates’ has now turned their design skills and experience to the specialized design of Armed Forces Reserve Centers and Joint Vehicle Maintenance Facility projects.

Most recently, the firm completed the Design and Construction Administration Services for the Northwest Houston Armed Forces Reserve Center and Joint Vehicle Maintenance Facility.

The 124,382 sq. ft. facility is designed to meet training and operational needs of multiple Texas Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve units. Standing as a showcase of the firm’s services, the Reserve Center consists of unit storage areas, an assembly hall, administrative offices, medical sections and educational classrooms.

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THE GARLAND COMPANY The Garland Company, Inc. is proud to have partnered with Turner Ramirez and Associates on a number of military, federal and commercial projects since 1990. The Garland Company's 200 locally-based service representatives deliver high-performance roofing solutions and support to meet a wide range of waterproofing and aesthetic challenges. For more information visit www. garlandco.com or call toll-free 800-321-9336.

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The 29,839 sq. ft. Joint Vehicle Maintenance Facility supports and maintains military vehicles attached to the Texas Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve Units operating out of the adjacent Armed Forces Reserve Center.

The Vehicle Maintenance Facility contains educational classrooms, vehicle maintenance bays, tool and part storage areas, repair shops and administrative offices. Moreover, the facility has subsidiary flammable and hazardous material containment areas, unheated storage buildings and vehicle lube and inspection ramps. It meets anti-terrorism standards and LEED Silver standards.

Currently the firm is completing the second and final phase of the 60-acre master planned military complex at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. When complete, the project will consist of over 425,000 sq. ft. of built structures totaling $64 million in overall construction.

Currently under construction, the 209,128

sq. ft. Armed Forces Reserve Center is the centerpiece of the complex designed to meet the training and operational needs of multiple Texas Army National Guard units, the U.S. Army Reserve and U.S. Marine Corps Reserve units.

The Armed Forces Reserve Center, like the Northwest Houston project, is accompanied by a 45,830 sq. ft. Joint Vehicle Maintenance facility and subsidiary support elements. This facility has also been designed to meet antiterrorism standards and LEED Silver certification. Completion is anticipated in June of 2012.

When working on military centers, Turner operates with steadfast confidence. “My two careers have come together in the last few years with these large military projects,” he said. Turner, Ramirez’ blend of private and governmental work has allowed the firm to continue its legacy of great architectural projects throughout the State of Texas and elsewhere. ALT

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GLOBAL ESTIMATORS

THROUGH THEIR GLOBAL REACH AND IMMENSE RANGE OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, TURNER & TOWNSEND GIVES CLIENTS THE SURE FOUNDATION OF WORLD CLASS BUSINESS CONSULTANCY, DELIVERY AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT.

by Joel Cornell

By utilizing 63 offices staffed by a workforce 2,400 strong operating in 29 countries around the world, Turner & Townsend has the scope, resources and talent to provide professional cost and asset control, consultancy and project management services of the highest caliber.

In working with all parties at all levels within the process of design and construction, Turner & Townsend is poised to optimize business and operations for clients within any sector, from national or municipal governments to multinational or local corporations.

While most of Turner & Townsend’s clients tend to work on the design side of a project, these projects can range from oil and gas production to IT and from banking and commercial development to airport expansion. This extensive range of services is fully supported by their equally diverse personnel.

“We’ve always endeavored to never specialize in a single sector or industry,” said Houston, Texas branch’s senior consultant and estimator Gwendy Taylor. “We do everything we can to maintain a wide array of professional services. In that way, we’re always able to do work not just in the Houston area, but around the world. We're able to manage a vast array of projects in Russia and California and England, all from our office here in Houston.”

Taylor boasts a portfolio that reflects the diverse assortment of services provided by Turner & Townsend. She and her staff have served in advisory and estimation roles on projects for hospitals, Homeland Security, border patrol and NASA. She has also handled four of the six biosafety level four research facilities that the company has managed.

“What we do in the Houston office is exactly what we do in our offices around the world,” said vice president Judith Baker. “Each branch remains autonomous so that they can perform in a way that is better suited to their individual location and situation.

“Most small business can have some occasions where they’re quite desperate for cash flow or support, which can have a negative effect on day to day business decisions. As an independent branch of a larger

company, we’re able to have access to the entire company, all procedures and assets included. We have an international skill base around the globe that gives us a vast amount of reach and diversity. All this enables us to avoid the many pitfalls and tight spots that can plague smaller firms with less global access.”

Near to Houston, Texas is the new Austin-Bergstrom Armed Forces Reserve Center and Vehicle Maintenance Facility, one of the Houston branch’s larger federal projects. When architecture firm Turner & Ramirez began the initial design phases, they immediately brought on Turner & Townsend for their world class project management and cost control services.

Turner & Townsend worked with Turner & Ramirez to finalize agreements and documentation, find the most cost-effective materials and specialty services, ensure the application of government standard security features and conduct research to find cost appropriate materials to achieve the desired LEED certification.

“We have never been concerned with growth,” Baker said. “Our aim is to provide perfection in all our services. From there, growth springs naturally for us and our clients alike.” ALT

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Titans Service of

Memphis-based architectural firm LLW Architects, Inc. integrates new-school business strategies with top-notch customer services, making LLW a stand-out hospitality architectural firm for over 20 years.

by Marylyn Simpson

For almost two decades LLW Architects, Inc. has kept up with the industry’s highest standards, and perfected their unrivaled customer service. Since 1993, LLW has focused their business efforts on hospitality architecture, a rapidly expanding field within the architecture industry.

Founding partner, Paul E. Lague started his architecture career in the hospitality industry 28 years ago. He and then coworker Dell Livingston decided to combine their knowledge, skills and connections within the industry to establish their own hospitality architecture firm. Amidst fierce competition, LLW’s commitment to their clients puts the company in a class of their own. “There are a lot of hotel architects out there who do what we do all day long.

It’s not rocket science, but here’s what separates us from the other architectural firms. We provide a level of service to our clients that goes far beyond what other architects do in the industry,” Lague said.

“We strive for quality drawings and customer satisfaction. Whether it’s a phone call, a question they have, or a problem that needs to be resolved, we strive for instantaneous response. Ultimately customer satisfaction is really what it’s all about.”

Livingston and Lague realize they’re not selling architectural products that can act as tangible testaments to their expertise.

Rather, they’re selling an experience. Topnotch customer service and business-to-

THIS SPREAD: Hampton Inn and Suites on Beale Street, Memphis, Tenn. Bordering the legendary blues alley, this hotel has plenty of views of Downtown. The ground level has retail that ties the hotel to the local community.

The lobby and breakfast area features dark woods and comfortable chairs.

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client communication are what solidifies the firm’s world class reputation. Knowing the wants and needs of both clients and travelers is the first step to maintaining successful client relationships. From the overall aesthetics of a building, down to the shower’s water pressure, LLW creates a useful, efficient and customer-preferred hotel.

“There’s a wide variety of hotels out there, so our goal is to provide a product beyond the basics. It’s got to feel like they’re getting their money’s worth. It’s not just having hot water for a shower ; it’s providing all the amenities that the most sophisticated traveler expects.”

Another of LLW ’s priorities for designing top-of-the-line hotels is evolving with technology. LLW is always in search of the latest technological advances. He explains that cutting-edge technology keeps LLW one THIS PAGE: Hampton Inn and Suites, Mobile, Ala. Use of traditional materials, stucco, wrought iron, and brick in a transitional design helps tie this property to the downtown environment. Balconies are prevalent on two streets which are on the Mardi Gras parade route.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Homewood Suites, Daphne, Ala. A small site, adjacent streams and wetlands forced the design to a more urban and compact footprint.

Grouping windows and minimizing floor transitions allows for this seven story T- shaped building to fit better into its environment without being over powering. Following hotel franchise requirements for a gabled lodge was challenging with a compact vertical design. The two-story breakfast area, with three different lighting levels, makes guests feel like they’re in their own home.

step ahead of the competition. “We know the hotel developer is more sophisticated today than they were ten years ago,” he said. “They demand a quality product and assume we’re going to use the most current and up-to-date materials, design methods and information technology. We keep an eye on the traveling public to give them what they want.”

Currently, LLW’s clientele base reads like a “Who’s Who” of internationally recognized hotel chains. From Hilton to Starwood, LLW has extensive experience and an award-winning background in providing top architectural designs. Boasting unique interpretations of chain hotels, LLW incorporates their unique design into each building. Whether fusing the exterior of a hotel with their urban surroundings like

QUAKER WINDOW PRODUCTS Since 1949, Quaker Window Products has been a leader in the window and door industry. From commercial to residential projects, replacement and historical rehab to new construction, Quaker's products run the gamut of styles and applications with a special focus on energy-efficiency and LEED design.

For more information on Quaker Windows and Doors, visit www.quakerwindows.com 104 Spring 2011

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they did in the Hampton Inn and Suites in Mobile, Ala.- or creating a highly energetic lobby to illuminate the interior like they did in the Hilton Garden Inn Portsmouth, N.H. – LLW pride themselves on being able to balance a sense of creativity and individuality with each hotel, while satisfying the brand’s prototypical requirements and hotel standards.

With hotels throughout the United States,

Caribbean and Mexico, LLW shows no signs of slowing down. They are anticipating the opening of their latest project, Hilton Garden Inn in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, Mexico this spring. Modern, with a sophisticated contemporary style, the hotel compliments the design of the adjacent convention center and restaurant, part of a $40 million new development. While loyal to North America, LLW hopes to expand their international

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reach to Asia and South America. “We’re still all about North America because that’s our bread and butter, but we know the North American market is slow. We’ve got to move into some other areas just to stay ahead of the pack,” said Lague. With the current economic climate, North America has provided LLW a new set of challenges.

From a plummeting construction industry to a slowing hospitality industry, LLW has

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reassessed their priorities and returned to their roots, remembering, in the end, personal and professional customer service is what makes or breaks a firm. Aggressive against the recession, LLW strives to give clients more for their money with additional complimentary services. Lague said their aggressive strategies have proven successful.

“Our firm continues to be in business because we know we have a quality product and we’ve got a list of clientele as dedicated to us as we are to them,” Lague said. Measuring LLW’s success off of their reputation from the last two decades, Lague credits the firm’s expansion, not to advertising, but to old-fashioned, word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients.“ When we get word-of-mouth referrals, it means a lot. Our reputation continues to prevail from each of those referrals,” Lague said. “Without a good reputation we’re not much. Every time we start a new job, we think about what aspects of the previous hotel design we can improve on to satisfy our clients even more. For us, it’s all about customer service. That’s really what we are.” ALT

THIS SPREAD: Hilton Garden Inn, Portsmouth, N.H. Located in the heart of historic downtown. Use of classic brick and stone with a modern interpretation.

Large storefront windows at the main level are inviting. Lobby bar and lounge has large storefront windows overlooking the streets. Even though the indoor pool and spa is located in the basement level, there is plenty of light and interest.

All photos courtesy of LLW Architects.

PRIDE CONSTRUCTION Pride Construction was the general contractor on the 123-room Hampton Inn and Suites at Corolla, N.C. The project was designed by Paul Lague of LLW Architects and consisted of a three-story concrete block and precast plank structure with EIFS and Hardiplank exterior walls, totaling 94,000 sq. ft. and a cost of $8.8 million. Located on the remote Outer Banks of North Carolina, there was no available local workforce so all labor had to be imported. Throughout the 12-month construction time, it was evident that Paul Lague had extensive hotel construction experience. LLW Architects have continued to be an important player in the hotel architectural marketplace and Pride Construction continues to enjoy their great relationship with this quality firm. For more information please visit www.prideconst. com or call 901-854-8683.

HOTEL RESOURCES GROUP Hotel Resources Group (HRG) is an industry leader in specifying, supplying and installing doors, frames, hardware, bath accessories and specialty items for diverse clients nationwide.

Since 1992, HRG’s focus has been on hospitality, healthcare and select commercial projects, from new construction to renovations. One team, start to finish, that’s HRG. For more information on Hotel Resources Group, please visit www.gohrg.com or call 901.854.6607.

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Renovating the Florida Keys WITH OVER 35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, PRESIDENT OF BENDER & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS, BERT BENDER, HAS BEEN BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO SOME OF THE FLORIDA KEYS’ MOST BEAUTIFUL HISTORIC BUILDINGS.

by Marylyn Simpson

Specializing in historic preservation of public, commercial and residential architecture, Bender & Associates has become a premiere architecture firm not only in their home-base of Key West, but throughout Florida. This is thanks to its cutting-edge, energy-efficient techniques, as well as its uncontested design philosophy, which incorporates sustainable design with historic preservation.

With a small but mighty staff, president Bert Bender and his three LEED accredited professionals have tackled restoration as well as new architectural projects, including restoration of the Key West Custom House for the Key West Art and Historical Society, and three lighthouses in South Florida: Key West, Cape Florida and Jupiter Inlet. The firm completed Phase 1 of a report for the state’s Division of Historical Resources, “Sustainable Stewardship, The Environmental Benefits of Historic Preservation in Florida,” on the application of LEED standards to historic sites. They are currently working on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the historic Gainesville Railroad Depot, originated in 1860, currently designed to LEED Gold with a potential for Platinum Having started his career in architecture OPPOSITE PAGE: Cape Florida Lighthouse, Key Biscayne, Fla. Prior to renovations, the tower had been abandoned for 100 years. Two thirds of the tower was missing 1 wythe of brick and in many areas, 2 wythes were missing.

THIS PAGE: Fort Zachary Taylor, Key West, Fla. Listed as one of Florida’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places, Fort Zachary Taylor is a historic masonry fort constructed between 1845 and 1862. Built to defend the entrances to the Gulf of Mexico, the fort served in various capacities for the U.S. Army from the Civil War in 1861 to the Cuban Missile Crisis in the 1960’s. The fort is designated as a National Historic Landmark, and is one of only a few dozen sites in Florida accorded this level of recognition. The fort was altered in 1898 in response to the new rifled canons and the start of the Spanish American War. The three-story building was reduced to one. The south and west casemates shown here were reinforced with massive concrete batteries that could withstand the new weaponry.

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I got involved in historic preservation because I saw a tremendous asset in the character of these historic buildings.

Historic preservation was the natural expansion of my interest in conservation and sustainable or environmentally responsible design. In doing so I developed this interest and expertise. under the guidance of architectural giant Paolo Soleri, Bender was introduced to the world of responsible sustainable design through Soleri’s concept of “Archology, City in the Image of Man.” Historic preservation was the natural offshoot of this sustainable design philosophy. Combining his experience with Soleri, having aided in Soleri’s development of the prototype city, Arcosanti, located in the high desert plateaus of Central Arizona, Bender combined his Acrosanti experience with his appreciation of growing up in the inner city of Chicago, formulating his unique design philosophy.

“I got involved in historic preservation because I saw a tremendous asset in the character of these historic buildings. Historic preservation was the natural expansion of my interest in conservation and sustainable

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design. In doing so I developed this interest and expertise,” Bender said.

Nearly 35 years after his first encounter with historic preservation, Bender continues to look for new ways to integrate new green techniques into his work, while preserving the aesthetics that make each building so unique. Having worked on buildings dating to the early 19th century through post World War II, Bender and his team continually work to develop strategies to overcome architecturally limiting challenges.

“The greatest challenges faced in Florida are environmental. The biggest problem in adapting modern facilities to historic buildings is dealing with humidity issues, so it’s more of a technical problem. Airconditioning systems draw moisture through the walls, which leads to mold and mildew

problems. Additionally, opening walls to provide vapor barriers or insulation would destroy the very resource that needs to be protected,” Bender said.

Bender and his team have created solutions to restoration and preservation challenges, keeping true to the company’s environmentally conscious philosophy. This plays out BELOW: Mansion At Tuckahoe, Martin County, Fla. Rehabilitation of the Leach Mansion located at Indian RiverSide Park. Constructed in 1938 as a seasonal residence, the main building is an example of Mediterranean Revival architecture. The restoration of the exterior and two main floors of the mansion to their original configuration, characteristics, spatial relationships, proportions and details recaptures the important architectural features of the Leach Mansion. The mansion serves as a venue for various events, including weddings, conferences and socials.

Photo by Randysmithphoto.com OPPOSITE PAGE: Jupiter Lightstation, Jupiter, Fla. Bert Bender stands at the top of the Jupiter Lighthouse.

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in their continual quest for historicallypreserved-meets-eco-friendly strategies.

“From a sustainable stand point if you have salvageable materials it doesn’t make sense to tear down and start over. We analyze what strategies we can use to make a building as sustainable as possible, including geothermal systems or strategies for A/C that haven’t been used before, such as incorporating reclaimed water into geothermal systems.

We look at what’s most energy efficient,” Bender said.

Taking advantage of the economic down turn and the heightened awareness of reusing old material, Bender stresses the importance of sustainability and reusing materials that would otherwise be discarded. “If you ABOVE: Key West Custom House, Key West, Fla. The 1891 house is one of the most significant historic buildings in Florida. The Richardsonian Romanesque edifice is one of the few examples of this significant style in the state. A 10 year effort resulted in restoration, including recovering significant brick, brownstone and terracotta detailing. Almost complete, this image shows the original post office which now serves as the main gallery of the Key West Museum of Art and History. Original details were recovered or replicated, including the cast iron column capitals and bases, decorative plaster and antique heart pine floors. Photo by Goodwin Heart Pine.

RIGHT: Historic Gato Cigar Factory, Key West, Fla. The 1926 factory represents a significant part of Key West’s history.

The Navy claimed the building for services during World War II, abandoned it in the 1970’s and conveyed it to Monroe County in 1990. The rehabilitated building was adapted for use as Monroe County and State of Florida offices.

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CONTRACTING SPECIALISTS INC. Since 1996, Contracting Specialists Inc. has steadily emerged as a full-service leader in specialty construction, providing clients throughout the East Coast with proven and innovative solutions for their concrete repair, masonry restoration and waterproofing challenges. Visit ContractingSpecialists. com to view project profiles, discover best practices and request a free bimonthly e-newsletter.

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Living in a smaller or historic home, you use less energy and contribute to a sustainable lifestyle. It’s more about lifestyle choices rather than using the latest in what’s being marketed as the latest and greatest thing. choose to live in the inner city, your entire life could focus within that particular area.

Everything you do in life to sustain yourself is in your neighborhood; reducing your reliance on the automobile, for example.

When you do that you have a much more positive impact on the environment. Living in a smaller or historic home, you use less energy and contribute to a sustainable lifestyle. It’s more about lifestyle choices rather than using what’s marketed as the latest and greatest thing,” Bender said. ALT THIS PAGE: Pigeon Key, Marathon, Fla. The 1935 Labor Day hurricane, a powerful Category 5 storm, that killed over 400 people, also destroyed the Overseas Railroad.

Pigeon Key with its location at the 7 Mile Bridge, half way between Key Largo and Key West once again became the hub of activity for construction of the Overseas Highway.

That three-year long project used the original railroad bridges and bed to lay the highway that still serves the Keys today. This building was used as the Assistant Bridge Tender’s residence. Pigeon Key is the island camp constructed at the turn of the 20th century by Henry Flagler to support construction of his overseas railroad connecting Key West with the Florida mainland. Pigeon Key is unique not only because of its historic importance, but also its ambiance and feeling of being “frozen in time.”

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Steptoe & Johnson Building 114 Spring 2011

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INTERNATIONAL INSIDE: PIERI & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS, GLASSTRA , CMS ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN, ANDREU WORLD AMERICA

Charlie Palmer, South Coast Plaza Photo courtesy of CMS Architecture & Design

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PIERI & ASSOCIATES Architect

San Juan Company Goes For the Gold When it Comes to Design and Ecological Preservation

by Rebecca Rodriguez

In late January, Vincent Pieri, principal of Pieri & Associates Architects, was soaring high, having just landed a big LEED Gold project with a German pharmaceutical company. As the premier green builder in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a country in dire need of environmental protection, Pieri is blazing the trail for eco-friendly architecture.

The new design/build project with Sartorius Stedim Biotech, has an ambitious goal to create Puerto Rico’s first LEED certificated pharmaceutical bio-tech company. Only five other buildings in Puerto Rico are LEED certified.

“We went the extra mile to get this project, like David in a field of Goliaths. We put on a good show,” Pieri said, adding that their German clients were very excited about the eco-friendly design.

“They went crazy over it. We’re a small firm, but we know what we’re doing.”

Since 2004, Pieri & Associates Architects’ five employees have been offering design devices and project management with a determined focus on green design consulting. For Pieri, building to LEED standards is as integral to high-quality architecture as sound designs.

“Being green is being smart. An eco-friendly building comes out of project management and design excellence. But most architects don’t want to bother with it,” Pieri said. “I don’t want to design a building that’s bad for the environment. Architects are supposed to be optimistic and positive people.”

A thorough and aggressive approach to green objectives is central to the Sartorius project. Given the site’s urban access, Pieri plans to work with the local municipality of Yauco to provide a shuttle service to the office building for employees. Plans also include restoring the site’s habitat, landscaping surrounding meadows and gardens with native and adaptive plants. But the cornerstone of the eco-friendly design will be feeding “the beast.” a monstrous cooling tower, servicing air conditioning needs for the 30,000 sq. ft. manufacturing area, the 20,000 sq. ft. support space, and the 10,000 sq. ft. office and front office space. The projected reverse osmosis system will use rain water to feed plants and power plumbing, utilizing roughly 12,000 gallons per day. The reverse osmosis system will save a significant amount of money in the long run and conserve water, of high environmental concern to Puerto Rico, Pieri said.

LEED certified designing is much more than drawing pretty pictures. It centers on high functionality and conservation, with such priorities as .efficient heating and cooling. The Sartorius building will feature a highly reflective roof with 500 solar panels, and additional exterior and interior lighting fixtures. Inside, the building’s large THIS PAGE: Regional Justice Center, Aibonito, Puerto Rico. The proposal for a 155,000 sq. ft.

LEED compliant regional justice center for a design/build/operate competition for the Puerto Rico Justice Department. The project team addressed the life cycle issues of the site and facility, as well as its connection to the surrounding community and ecosphere. It features 25 percent energy savings, 30 percent stormwater reduction, a habitat preservation buffer area, heat island reduction, 50 percent water savings and 20 percent recycled content materials.

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windows will fill offices with natural light, improving employee morale and connectedness to the environment. They will also enjoy views of highly colorful, historic buildings built into the adjacent mountainside. Light pollution is a major environmental issue for the Caribbean, impacting nocturnal animals such as bats, which pollinate the land. Satellite photos, highlighting the region’s pollution, show an especially strong glow from Puerto Rico. Pieri plans to use appropriate, environmentally-sensitive lighting along the sidewalks. Hesitant to ship products like gypsum board from China, Pieri is looking into using more local materials, made of 100 percent postindustrial, recycled content with no formaldehyde or other hazardous chemicals.

“It’s important for architects to know where the materials come from,” Pieri said. “We have to consider, ‘Can it be reused and returned to nature after its use?’”

The main lobby of the Sartorius features an entryway with a solar screen. Once inside, the building is mostly glass with a lay-

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ered space containing a waiting area and conference room with a breezeway leading to a garden. Welcoming visitors, the conference room displays a wall of products and a window showing off a section of the manufacturing facility. Multi-layered space and open windows connect the building with the outside environment, complementing the fundamental eco-friendly design of the structure. There is a separate, open area of office space for employees, while managers have contained offices, which have windows and striking views. In addition, there is a separate commissary for employees to gather for lunch al fresco.

“We spend so much time indoors. We need to connect with the outside world, which means proper ventilation. We don’t want to feel locked up,” Pieri said. “We need adaptable building construction that considers where materials come from, how they’re used, where they go later, how they affect human health and how much light gets into the building.”

As of January, the company was finishing a LEED certification

green building

for a 500-room Marriot hotel – the first LEED Certified hotel in Puerto Rico. In addition to a hospital, the company started a new FBI headquarters slated for San Juan which will probably achieve LEED Gold. According to Pieri, the building will be a “spectacular” urban project, tackling many preservation and energy efficiency issues.

On occasion clients need a slight push to get a higher LEED rating. But, a higher certification doesn’t have to mean a 20 percent higher cost.

“I look to where I can save to get the gold. We knocked off a significant amount of money and the LEED score didn’t change,” Pieri said, referring to a recent project. “Sometimes it’s hard for clients who haven’t gone through the LEED process before. It’s different for them.”

On a multi-million dollar job, $7,000 is a small price to pay for eco-friendly elements. Moreover, simple changes can cut a lot of costs,, like using zero-VOC paint rather than regular paint.

Customers wanting to save $30,000 by cutting down insulation may not consider the insulation will save exponentially more on electricity bills for years to come. Pieri likes to sit down with the contractor and revise the numbers if they seem high. Involving the contractor from the beginning can knock a substantial amount of money from the project and increase the LEED score, Pieri said.

Clients are easily spooked by architects who are pushy about green building in initial meetings. Pieri advocates for probable operational savings, the language of a businessman stressed out about financing a building.

“If you talk in business terms, you can get clients interested in green building. If I go the wrong way I won’t even get to first base. I won’t even get to bat. And the environment isn’t going to

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get better unless business is engaged,” he said.

Preserving the environment is a goal close to Pieri’s heart, whether on the business front or on the personal side. He has been in the U.S. Green Building Council since 2004, serving as a founding member as well as president of the board. The council currently has a program offering free green construction education to atrisk individuals, including criminal offenders and or high school dropouts. Pieri is also helping design and landscape a Haitian orphanage to LEED standards. It’s a challenge to incorporate LEED techniques in a country without running water or sanitation. He is in charge of neighborhood elements, such as street lighting, which Haiti sorely lacks. With 500,000 orphans and 85 percent of the earthquake’s rubble still on streets, Haiti is one of the most at-risk locations in the world. Pieri readily offers his LEED skills to aid relief and urges anyone interested in “Project Haiti” to visit the USGBC website. ALT OPPOSITE PAGE: The Marriott Courtyard Convention Center Hotel, San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Located in the new Convention Center District, this 300 room, 200,000 sq. ft. project is the first Marriott property outside of the continental U.S. to attempt LEED certification. Pieri performed LEED Guidance and Administration. It features over 27 percent energy savings, over 50 percent potable water savings and over 30 percent stormwater load reduction.

(ABOVE) Cardinal Park Concept at Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Mo. Pieri designed this project. The “Cardinal Park” concept for the Northern parcel remnant of the old Busch stadium was developed after a call from Pieri's brother, who thought it shameful that, after the Ballpark Village development debacle, this historic parcel would be used merely as surface parking and a softball field. The arcade canopy design is composed of a series of modular translucent tensile fabric structures that follow the outline of the former Busch stadium foundation walls. Their combined form is intended to recall the arched shell canopy of the former Busch Stadium. Below the triangular fabric pieces are rectangular fabric elements. During the day, the canopies provide shade and cover from rain. At night, the fabric is back-lit from above to illuminate the entire canopy arc.

All photos and renderings courtesy of Pieri & Associates.

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The Highest Quality in Aluminum and Glass OVER THE PAST THREE DECADES, GLASSTRA HAS GROWN INTO PUERTO RICO’S LEADING ALUMINUM AND GLASS MANUFACTURER AND INSTALLATION SPECIALISTS, COMPLETING A VARIETY OF DIVERSE AND BREATHTAKING PROJECTS.

by Amelia Doenlen

Jose Manuel Trapote, founder of the international aluminum manufacturing and installation company Glasstra, has over 30 years of experience in the field. Starting as a small family business, Trapote opened Glasstra with his brother Adolfo in the 70’s. They started working with just aluminum and glass crystals but have grown into one of the biggest aluminum companies in Puerto Rico with an annual income of around 12 million and growing.

A common name in the Puerto Rico business market, Glasstra provides high-quality products and service to its customers.

“We are always building relationships with our customers,” Trapote said. “We have a lot of experience and always do things the right way to make sure that everything is according to the customer’s needs. We are always willing to go out of the way to make the client happy.”

Besides constructing their own materials and selling them to general contractors, Glasstra also helps architects by helping them stay current with new products used in the market that relate to aluminum. Their work includes windows, sliding windows, doors, commercial storefronts and high-rise buildings and they have completed some of the biggest projects in Puerto Rico. They craft custom pieces for projects based on its individual needs.

One very complex project for them was the Puerto Rico convention center. The building has dramatic curves and was a complicated undertaking. Other projects include the terminals of the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport as well as the Molecular Science Building of Puerto Rico University. While Trapote knows that every project has its ups and downs he believes that through attention to detail and careful study of the project, mishaps can be prevented and the final product will be very satisfying.

As the economy fell, Glasstra, like many other businesses in the area, had to downsize. Usually there is a staff of 30 in the factory. Despite the cutbacks, Trapote still believes that it is important to provide continued education for his employees and sends them to seminars to keep up-to-date.

In looking toward the future, Trapote is optimistic and would like to see the company increase its volume by roughly 30 percent. “In all the years that we have been in business, we have always had a good flow of jobs. I hope that the economy improves because I have a lot of new ideas for the company that will help us grow and diversify.” ALT Architecture Leaders Today 123

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above

by Felecia Willis

President and CEO of CMS Architecture and Design, Chris Smith, is proud of his modest beginnings. He graduated from Syracuse University in upstate New York with a Bachelor’s degree in architecture. Armed with a background in high-end residential design and construction management, he joined the Rockwell Group as design director and managed a studio team responsible for producing the high-profile project of Nobu, New York.

“My first job was a little Japanese restaurant called Nobu in TriBeCa. It was a very handson job,” Smith said. “From there I moved my residence to TriBeCa and purchased a building with a few other guys. I opened my own restaurant there in 1997 with Drew Nieporent, a friend I worked with on Nobu who is currently the managing partner there.”

Smith and Nieporent opened City Wine and Cigar Company, which Drew managed until the smoking ban went into effect and they had to close. “Ever since then, we’ve formed a niche in the hospitality business, mostly restaurants and hotels.”

Established by Smith in 1991, CMS is a full service architectural and interior design firm specializing in hospitality, restaurants and entertainment, as well as high-end residential design. The firm has been afforded the opportunity to build structures around the world which are considered by experts in the field to be unsurpassed in workmanship.

Destinations such as Chicago, Boston, Boca Raton, Costa Mesa, Las Vegas, Tyson’s Corner, New York City and Scottsdale as well as Waikiki, Tokyo, Jakarta and Kuwait can all boast buildings designed and constructed

by CMS Architecture and Design.

As architect, owner and operator of his own restaurants, Smith has several success-

beyond with a love of food and passion for design, CMS Architecture founder Chris Smith found his niche in the industry

THIS SPREAD: Charlie Palmer, South Coast Plaza. The lower level wine room in the two-story lobby. Photo by Doug Gifford.

Architecture Leaders Today 125

international

| hospitality

THIS PAGE: (TOP) ZED, Chicago. View from rooftop bar showing trellis cabanas, clerestory looking at bar below, outdoor see-thru fireplace and atrium. Photo by Mitch Tobias. (LEFT) ZED Mizner Park, Boca Raton, Fla. The bar features a board-formed poured concrete bar die with walnut top. The trelis of Western red cedar continues to the outdoor bar and lounge. The outside bar features a customdesigned water feature which defines the intimate lounge areas under the trellis along the street. The fireside dining lounge in the left foreground with a see-through fireplace looks into the wine room. Photo by Robert Brantley.

OPPOSITE PAGE: ZED, Chicago. The view at central harvest station looking towards Chef’s table. Photo by Mitch Tobias.

ful restaurant design projects to his credit.

With an enthusiasm for design and a love of food and wine, he created and developed his own restaurant concept, an American style bistro called DYLAN Prime in partnership with Drink Tank.

Smith also acted as architect and developer on two upscale residential and mixed use urban development projects in TriBeCa. The Dietz Lantern building is a mixed use building where DYLAN Prime is located, as well the32-unit, 110,000 sq. ft. Cobblestone Lofts.

CMS Architecture and Design has big plans for the future. In moving forward, the company has set its sights on mixed use master planning. “Developers anchor retail spaces with venues like restaurants, bowling centers, entertainment complexes and other venues. So we find that CMS is often in the beginning development phases of those plans. We come in as an anchor designer, and a lot of developers have asked our input to help them plan for those types of venues,” Smith said.

In acclaimed recognition, Smith was chosen by the New York City Mayor’s office to 126 Spring 2011

hospitality

| international

Architecture Leaders Today 127

international

| hospitality

THIS PAGE: INOX, Tyson’s Corner, Va. The view at the entry and the live edge walnut bar top. Photos by Eric Buechel.

participate in the Design Workshop for Lower Manhattan. The focus of the open forums was to model three potential futures for Lower Manhattan: Global Office Center, Creative Hubs and Livable Neighborhoods.

The plan also aims to help members of the community to understand the policy decisions associated with each. The thesis of the workshop is currently being used as a guideline for the work being done by the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation around Ground Zero.

Being involved in the planning for this project is a proud undertaking by Smith, and for CMS Architecture and Design, it is evident that the sky is the limit. ALT

IAN INGERSOLL Ian Ingersoll, a self-taught furniture maker, learned his trade through reproducing Shaker furniture and now leads a guild of fine furniture makers in northwestern Connecticut. He supplies furniture to the hospitality industry including many of Chris Smith’s commercial and residential projects. For more information on Ian Ingersoll, please visit www.ianingersoll. com or call 860-672-6334.

128 Spring 2011

architectural products

A

ndreu World is a truly global company, conducting business in 70 countries with multiple offices around the world. Headquartered in Valencia, Spain, with the primary U.S. office in Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, Andreu World sources wood from their own forest in Ukraine to manufacture fine tables and chairs out of their three factories across Spain. The start of this company begins in 1955, when the Andreu family lost their wood furniture factory to a poor economy. Francisco Andreu, only 17 at the time, who had clocked many hours as a cabinetmaker with his father soon thereafter changed the focus of their company to chairs and tables, starting the company all over again from scratch. Today, despite their 300 employees globally, Andreu World is still family owned and operated.

“Architects and designers are our main focus,” said Daniel Ortiz, sales manager for Andreu World America. “About 30 to 40 percent of our business is hospitality, 20 to 30 percent is corporate and the rest is comprised of institutional, residential and retail clients.”

Many of the company’s employees focus on creating unique pieces out of their factories in Spain. While an internal design team exists to work on new projects, many designs originate from designers that are in their own design houses.

“One of the key things that sets us apart from our competition is our extensive ability to customize our offerings,” Ortiz said. “Andreu World utilizes designers from design houses all over the world to partner on products for its customers. This results in very original and unique designs. Many of these designs have won awards. Probably one of the most famous is the Andrea Chair, a threelegged metal chair designed by Josep Llusca that is featured in the Museum of Contemporary Art in New York. Recently, we created the Smile Chair that won Best Dining Chair by Wallpaper Magazine in London. A lot of our projects have been featured in architectural magazines as well. It is our unique, independent designs and our ability to customize for individual projects that are our strengths. We also offer a full range of seating styles like varying widths, collar-back, etc. This gives the architecture and design community an ability to play with our furniture.”

And perhaps the greatest part about this company’s beautifully crafted furniture is that it comes at a reasonable price. “We focus on high design for a low cost,” Ortiz said. “However, the environment is very important to us. We are primarily a wood furniture manufacturer. We operate the stewardship of our forest. Everything from the planting of the trees to the cutting down, we are involved in. This made it very easy to certify our wood as FSC. This is really important when considering LEED. We use non-VOC glue. We don't use heavy metals. Additionally, we're pursuing other green certifications.”

Offering superior service is very important to Andreu World America. One of their largest projects to date in America has been Trump Tower Waikiki, which ordered about 2,300 chairs.

130 Spring 2011

| international

ANDREU WORLD AMERICA: GLOBAL BEAUTIFICATION, ONE CHAIR AT A TIME

by William Coleson

ZED 451 RESTAURANT, CHICAGO. (ABOVE) Fireplace with two wicker Manila Lounge chairs in mahogany finish with wicker cane arms and back designed by Lievore, Altherr, Molina. Chosen by CMS Architecture to create an inviting lounge area.

OPPOSITE PAGE: (TOP) Large dining room: Lineal Comfort armless dining chair with sled base upholstered in a faux leather. Faux leather was chosen as this restaurant made eco-friendly choices in design and architecture.

Designed by Lievore, Altherr, Molina. (BOTTOM) Lineal Comfort chairs in brown are also used in the private dining room just off the main dining room.

All photos by Mitch Tobias.

international

“The logistics of getting the chairs there were challenging. Keeping the lines of communication open and maintaining high levels of service were really crucial to delivering the project well,” said Ortiz. “Another key project was for the U.S. House of Representatives. They really wanted good quality long-lasting chairs. We offer a five-year warranty, however we design products that are meant to last a lifetime.”

Andreu World America is currently finishing a project for the Philip Morris headquarters, utilizing the same type of chair that was used in the ZED project in Chicago by CMS Architecture. They are also about to finish installations on the Cosmopolitan Hotel and the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas.

“Since we have only been in the U.S. for five years, our current marketing focus is on further increasing the brand awareness of Andreu World America,” Ortiz said. “We do a lot of grassroots direct marketing. We go to the design

| architectural products

firms. We communicate the quality of our products. We want that direct feedback. When we advertise, it is more from a branding standpoint. We showcase the really great projects that we have been able to do.”

In terms of future plans, Andreu World America’s focus is to continue growing and to continue branding their business.

“We have some new retail partnerships that we are working on for boutique style stores. In this way, we will have the ability to have our furniture shown to everyone.” said Ortiz. “Additionally, from a technical standpoint, we are working with more plastics and metals, creating outdoor friendly furniture.

For the last two to three years, improving our technical ability to deal with plastics has been a large focus, since we have a tradition of hand-crafting wood furniture. So we are introducing new processes to be able to deal with the technical challenges of producing plastic based products.” ALT

Architecture Leaders Today 131

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212-545-7878 AIC 212-343-2773 Alan Court & Assoc 34 Park Pl East Hampton, NY 11937 631-324-7497 Carpen House PO Box 554 Little Falls, NY 13365 877-396-3302 Summerhill Landscapes 6 Shaw Road Sag Harbor, NY 11963 631-725-0005 Upstate Door 26 Industrial Street Warsaw, NY 14569 585-786-3880 SRK Pools 370 Montauk Highway Wainscott, NY 11975 631-537-3750 Imperial Gunite Corp 81 Commercial Ave Oakdale, NY 11769 631-287-2455 Fountainhead Construction 2228 Montauk Hwy/Ste 5 Bridgehampton, NY 11932 631-537-6841 HzW Environmental Consultants 6105 Heisley Rd Mentor, OH 44060 440-357-1260 Paul J. Ford & Co. 250 E. Broad St./Ste 1500 Columbus, OH 43215 614-221-6679 LR Nelson Engineers 6765 West Russell Rd/Ste 200 Las Vegas, NV 89118 702-798-7978 Mincey Marble 4321 Browns Bridge Rd Gainesville, GA 30504 800-533-1806 Quaker Windows 504 Highway 63 South Freeburg, MO 65035 573-744-5211 Thomas Builders 855 W. Wilson St. Niota, TN 37826 423-568-2134 Starrett Electric 110 West Court Dyersburg, TN 38025 731-442-0890 Saia Trim Group 8110 Cordova Rd/ste 115 Memphis, TN 38016 901-751-7442 Mid South Glass 330 South Pkwy Memphis, TN 38112 901-947-4146 Hotel Resource Group 968 Civic Center Dr.

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Phillips/May Corp 4861 Sharp St Dallas, TX 75247 214-631-3331 Reeder General Construction 109 Aviator Dr Fort Worth, TX 76052 817-439-2022 Boro Plastering 95 Hopper St/2nd FL Westbury, NY 11590 516-746 Integrated Comfort Systems 267 Cortlandt St Belleville, NJ 7109 866-749-6331 B&H Restoration 3455 Vernon Blvd Long City, NY 11106 718-274-5598 St. John’s Woodworking 68 34th St Brooklyn, NY 11232 718-499-0584 Charles W. Beers, Inc. PO Box 133, 175 Post Ave Westbury, NY 11590 516-334-2045 Capitol Fire Sprinklers Co. Inc 5151 59th Pl. Woodside, NY 11377 718-533-6800 Ferra Designs, Inc. 63 Flushing Ave/Unit 135 Brooklyn, NY 11201 718-852-8629 PCI Industries 21717 Rebublic St Oak Park, MI 48237 248-542-2570 Rich Duncan Construction 200 Hawthrone Ave SE Salem, OR 97301 503-390-4999 STUDIOHOWE PO Box 1564 Amagansete, NY 11930 646-621-1121 AV Design Group 52 Sherwood Rd Hampton Bays, NY 11946 631-728-6600 Resource Furniture 969 Third Ave NY, NY 10155 2127532039 Schield Family Brands (Weather Shield) PO box 309/One Weather Shield Plaza Medford, WI 54451 715-748-2100 x3723

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Padgett, Inc. 901 E. Fourth St New Albany, IN 47150 812-206-8620

Pfister Energy, Inc 80 E. 5th St Paterson, NJ 7524 973-653-9880

Superior Fire Protection 113 Park S. Ct. Nashville, TN 37210 615-254-8507

MBB Enterprises of Chicago 3352 W. Grand Ave Chicago, IL 60651 773-278-7100

Walker Mechanical 1400 W. Jefferson St Louisville, KY 40203 502-636-0002

Pro Custom Solar 5234 Kaitlyn Ct. Princeton Junction, NJ 8550 732-310-6052

Manning Materials 509 Lingon Dr Nashville, TN 37204 615-248-1001

Artisan Engineering 10 Robin Ln Charlotte, VT 5445 802-425-4350

Alcoa Concrete & Masonry 4908 46th Ave/Ste B Hyattsville, MD 20781 301-699-9300

Waterfurnace 453 South Catherwood Ave Indianapolis, IN 46219 260-478-5667

Sudberry Millwork 443 Atlas Dr Nashville, TN 37211 615-331-4076

Sundoor Solar 125 Research Pwky Meriden, CT 6450 203-630-7077

Senate Masonry 3750 University BlvdW Ste 200 Kensington, MD 20895 3018160013

South Central 3055 State St Columbus, IN 47201 812-376-3343

Nashville Carpet Center 515 4th Ave South Nashville, TN 37210 615-244-9591

Sustainable Energy Group 13790 Gas Canyon Rd Nevada City, CA 95959 530-273-4422

Triangle Fence Co Ronda, NC 12345 336-9843961

The Solar Company Nicole Wonderlin 20861 Wilbeam Ave/Ste 1 Castro Valley, CA 94546 510-888-9488

CED-Riverside 2970 Durahart St. Riverside, CA 92507 909-987-8900

Mike Adams Plumbing 601 M and M Ranch Rd Granbury, TX 76049 817-573-4414

Minnicks Heating & Cooling 301-953-2820

Peterson Mfg. Co. PO Box 664 Denison, IA 51442 712-263-2442

Don Stevens Co 980 Discovery Rd Eagan, MN 55121 651-452-0872

East Texas Canopy 11221 Cr. 2130 Whitehouse, TX 75791 903-839-2091

Clark & White Landscape 2930 Westwood Blvd #203 Los Angeles, CA 90064 310-463-3766

Millcon 15280 W. State Hwy 29 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 512-289-8550

Alexander Metals, Inc 497 Cave Rd. Nashville, TN 37210 615-256-6070

Valley Security Co. 88 Riverwood Dr. Oswego, IL 60543 630-554-1090

Sundek (Superior Concrete Resurfacing) PO Box 1705 Goodlettsville, TN 37070 615-822-7134

Ontility 3403 N. Sam Houston Pkwy/Ste 300 Houston, TX 77086 281-854-1407

Oxford Designs 615-337-2669

Schletter 3761 E Farnum Place Tucson, AZ 85706 520-289-8721 ENERGY CleanEdison 12 Debrosses St NY, NY 10013 888-513-3476 Total Service Inc PO Box 818 Pomtotoc, MS 38863 662-841-0251 Daikin 1645 Wallace Dr/Ste 110 Carollton, TX 75006 972-512-1982 Gary Dounson & Associates 2830 NW 41st St/unit D Gainesville, FL 32606 352-375-8593 Geoscape Solar 7 Farmstead Rd Short Hills, NJ 7078 973-210-4277

Drops- Everything 106 Cummings Ct. Antioch, TN 37013 615-333-0401 Prestige Bath Refinishing 9295 Keen Rd Westmoreland, TN 37186 615-427-1485 TerraScape 2870 Old Fort Pkwy Murfreesboro, TN 37128 615-893-5125 Wolfe & Travis Electric 2001 Gladstone Ave Nashville, TN 37211 615-244-6800 Waterstone Construction 2418 Eugenia Ave Nashville, TN 37211 615-313-7299 Waste Management 1428 Antioch Pike Antioch, TN 37013 615-429-7825 Creative Concrete 1213 Natchez Rd Franklin, TN 37069 615-752-5272

Nello Wall Systems 6685 Santa Barbara Rd Elkridge, MD 21075 443-253-8811 Electron Solar Energy 2801 NW 6th Ave Miami, FL 33127 800-726-4981 Alternative Ecological Resoures Michelle Benero 939-397-7018 ESG Meram El Ramahi 4655 Rosebud Lane Newburgh, IN 47630 812-492-3734 VendRick 367 Collar Price Rd Brookfield, OH 44403 330-448-4600 JW Didado Electric 580 Vernon Odom Blvd Akron, OH 44307 330-374-0070 Bradford White 725 Talamore Drive Ambler, PA 19002 215-641-9400 Pauly Jail Building Co Pauly Jail Building, CO 317-580-0833 Steel Ceilings, Inc Grant Snowden 451 E. Coshocton St Johnstown, OH 43031 800-848-0496 Landscapes Inc 88 Rogers Ln Richmond, VT 5477 802-434-3500 Lighthouse Solar 4 CHerry Hill Rd New Paltz, NY 12561 845-417-3485 Next Energy Corp 1110 Burnett Ave/Ste E Concord, CA 94520 925-798-0600