Jack Cavanaugh’s Post

Can we be done building such ugly buildings?!? THIS BUILDING IS CONFUSED: With so many colors, building materials, rooflines, cornices, blank walls, and random landscaping, it doesn't know what it wants to be. It's like a kid destroyed a Lego set and put it back together without the instructions. It's great for experimenting but not so great for a community gateway. THIS BUILDING IS PASSIVE AGGRESSIVE: It's 50 Shades of Beige. I see this as especially concerning in Minnesota. In an effort to avoid offending anyone (oh dear, color!), people end up unintentionally creating a bland atmosphere, adding more monotony to a place that, let's face it, tends to be quite dull for half the year. THIS BUILDING IS CHEAP: We spend a lot of time reducing plastic bag use and composting our food (worthy causes, don't get me wrong), but barely a thought goes into to these cheap throwaway buildings. THIS BUILDING IS THE RESULT OF 2000s-ERA DESIGN GUIDELINES: Planners were astute in combatting boring buildings, but they swung too far, and now we have buildings that scream. We need to update guidelines to honor architectural hierarchy, harmony, traditional design, and THE STUFF PEOPLE LIKE!

Sun shades, also known as sun breakers, are architectural elements used to control sunlight and reduce heat inside buildings. Here are the different types, their applications, and the reasons for their use: 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐨𝐮𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬: These are among the most common types of sun shades. They consist of horizontal slats or panels attached outside windows or along the façade of a building. They are particularly effective on the south-facing façade in the Northern Hemisphere (and the north-facing in the Southern Hemisphere) because they block high-angle summer sun while allowing lower-angle winter sun to enter. 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐨𝐮𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬: These are similar to horizontal louvers but are oriented vertically. They are ideal for east and west façades because they can effectively block the low-angle sun in the morning and evening. They are used in both residential and commercial buildings to prevent glare and reduce cooling costs. 𝐄𝐠𝐠𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐮𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬: These are grid-like structures that provide uniform shading from multiple angles. They are often used in areas with variable sun angles, providing consistent light diffusion and protection throughout the day. 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐥𝐬: These panels have patterns of holes or other shapes that allow a controlled amount of sunlight to pass through. They can create interesting light patterns inside the building and are used for both aesthetic purposes and sun control. 𝐅𝐚𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬: These are flexible and can be retracted or expanded as needed. They are commonly used in residential settings, such as on patios or over windows, to provide temporary shade. Reasons for Using Sun Shades: 𝙍𝙚𝙙𝙪𝙘𝙚 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙂𝙖𝙞𝙣 : By blocking direct sunlight, these features help maintain cooler indoor temperatures, reducing the need for air conditioning and energy consumption. 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡 𝙂𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙚 : They help in reducing the direct sunlight that can cause glare on screens and discomfort in indoor spaces. 𝙀𝙣𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝘼𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙨 : Many sun shades are designed with an artistic touch, contributing to the building's visual appeal. 𝙄𝙢𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙩 : By moderating the amount of sunlight entering a space, they enhance the comfort of occupants. 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮 𝗰𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝘀, 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗲𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗰𝗰𝘂𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁

I recently came across this article that talks about the volume (interior sq. ft) to surface area (exterior siding sq. ft.) of a structure as determined by its shape and size. I found this very interesting as a means of not only determining the the size and shape of a structure for cost efficiency, but also for the reduction of materials consumed from an environmental standpoint and for balancing climatization. Much like balancing air intake and outflow in vented attic assemblies, balancing the sq. ft. of exposed exterior walls with total interior sq. ft. should result in higher efficiencies from climate systems. I have often read that building a larger house results in a cheaper cost basis per sq. ft. when compared with smaller houses. This is also one of the first talking points and considerations when a house is being built. However, I feel that the volume to surface area is a far more valuable first consideration. Check out the article and decide for yourself. https://lnkd.in/gWA7F8u2

‘Fabric First’ is a great mantra….but we don’t agree. As Passive House architects, this may be surprising. And before we get lynched by all the Passive House purists, hear us out. It is not fabric first, it is design first, fabric second. The importance of design on where we live, work and play (yeah, like the Mars bar ad…) has a profound impact on our quality of life. The saying goes that we are a product of our friends, our environment. And that includes our built environment. Studies have shown that a well-designed hospital can speed up recovery times. Meaning the better the hospital environment (light, air quality, thermal comfort, even the colour of paint on the walls) the quicker you improve. Imagine the benefits in your own home or place of work. Potentially better productivity, increased happiness, and all-around improved comfort. In Passive House design, this also means designing your home, your building, so that you harness the solar energy, without overheating. So you get the built form, the design right - which includes Passive House principles - before the fabric. Then you design the fabric. If you are thinking of designing, or renovating, your house or building; have a chat with us to see what value we can bring to your project.

The building envelope is more than just walls and roofs it's a crucial element in creating comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient indoor spaces. Our latest blog post explores the significance of the building envelope, highlighting its role as the primary interface between interior and exterior environments. Discover why understanding the importance of the building envelope is key to optimizing indoor environments! https://bit.ly/4cU8eSU

💰 Major costs involved in building a ultra-luxury Row House project like Sobha Crystal Meadows 🏡 ⚡ Land Acquisition and Preparation This is often the largest single expense. Premium locations and plots come with high price tags. Additionally, costs for land preparation, including grading, excavation, and environmental impact assessments, can be substantial. ⚡ Design and Architecture High-end design and architectural services are crucial for luxury projects. This includes hiring renowned architects and designers to create bespoke, aesthetically appealing, and functional plans. Costs also cover detailed planning, 3D renderings, and possibly multiple revisions. ⚡ Construction Costs Premium construction materials and finishes (e.g. High-end fixtures, glass and iron structures, stone cladding) are used. Labour costs are also higher for skilled tradespeople and contractors specializing in luxury homes. This includes foundation work, structural elements, and high-quality finishes. ⚡ Amenities and Landscaping Ultra-luxury communities often include upscale amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, spas, and landscaped gardens. The cost for high-quality landscaping, water features, and community facilities adds significantly to the overall budget. ⚡ Infrastructure Development Developing essential infrastructure such as roads, utilities (water, sewage, electricity), and communication systems (fiber optic cables, security systems) is crucial. These infrastructure elements must be built to support the luxury standards of the community. ⚡ Environmental and Sustainability Measures Implementing eco-friendly features and sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient systems, green building certifications (e.g., LEED), and environmentally friendly materials, can be costly but adds significant value and appeal to luxury properties. All of the above points collectively represent the major financial outlays involved in creating a high-end row house community. Whatsapp/Call us at +91 7795815430 to know more

Wrong orientation of a seafront property can be disastrous to the building! But it’s very easy to get it right based on the below suggestions for orientation! When constructing seafront properties, many focus on interiors and elevations, but are you considering how your building will handle the harsh sun? Ignoring sun orientation could lead to increased energy consumption and discomfort in your living spaces. By considering the sun’s path, you can save both energy and money. Proper sun orientation not only helps with natural ventilation but also improves thermal insulation. By using the sun wisely, you can enhance your building’s design and comfort while reducing reliance on artificial cooling and lighting. However, everything depends on the microclimate and a thorough site analysis. But do you know how to handle planning based on sun orientation? • Maximize Natural Light by positioning your home to benefit from morning sunlight that reduces the need for artificial lighting. • For west-facing properties, architectural features like shading devices or overhangs help minimize afternoon glare. • Carefully selected materials and building techniques reduce heat gain, especially on west-facing walls, keeping interiors cooler during hot seasons. • Use windows with reflective coatings to manage heat while maintaining your view. • Verandas, pergolas, and louvered spaces provide shade and promote airflow, cutting down on the need for air conditioning. • Trees and tall plants offer natural cooling and additional shade around the home. • Solar panels can be used for power generation. • Light-colored or reflective building materials reduce heat absorption. • Use materials designed to withstand salt, humidity, and heat, while reducing the environmental impact. • Cross ventilation helps in positioning openings that improves airflow naturally. • Open plan layouts enhanced airflow and cooling. • Skylights and high windows bring in natural light while avoiding direct sun, reducing energy costs for lighting. As an architect specializing in seafront architecture, I always consider sun orientation as an important key for every design. Incorporating these strategies ensures that your seafront property is not just elegant but also comfortable, sustainable, and energy-efficient!

A natural fit for the Aussie lifestyle, sliding doors can transform a space, opening it up to natural light and ventilation.   They are also a hard-working part of the building envelope. Choosing the right sliding door manufacturer is a crucial decision for any homeowner or architect, as it can have a huge impact on aesthetics, functionality and energy efficiency. It’s important to ‘bring the outside in’ without compromising on sustainability!   Read our latest blog for a checklist of what you should be looking for when it comes to choosing the right sliding door manufacturer, for either a residential or commercial project.   #Thermotek #uPVC #slidingfoors #windows #architecture #architects #builders #construction #sustainable #sustainablematerials #energyefficiency #sustainablewindows #energyefficiency 



🏢 Revolutionizing Building Renovation: The Power of EIFS for Aging Structures Are your building maintenance costs climbing while energy efficiency declines? Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) offers a game-changing solution that's transforming the commercial architecture landscape. Let me share why industry leaders are increasingly turning to this innovative system. Why EIFS is Becoming the Go-To Choice for Building Renovation: • Superior Protection: Creates an unmatched moisture barrier that shields your building from environmental damage, preventing costly repairs and extending structural life • Remarkable Energy Savings: Buildings with EIFS experience up to 30% reduction in annual heating and cooling costs - imagine the long-term savings for your property • Design Versatility: From modern minimalist to historic replication, EIFS offers endless customization options. Whether you're preserving a heritage look or creating a contemporary masterpiece, EIFS delivers • Cost-Effective Maintenance: Significantly lower maintenance requirements than traditional exteriors, saving both time and resources over the building's lifetime • Structural Enhancement: Not just a cosmetic solution - EIFS actively strengthens your building while covering existing damage, providing comprehensive protection Industry Impact: According to Building Design+Construction magazine, EIFS has revolutionized building renovation by offering a perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. Property managers report significant ROI through reduced energy costs and increased property values. The Technical Edge: ✓ Continuous insulation system ✓ Superior moisture management ✓ Enhanced fire resistance ✓ Excellent impact resistance ✓ Meets modern building codes Ready to transform your aging building into a modern, energy-efficient structure? Our latest article provides an in-depth analysis of how EIFS can revolutionize your property's performance and appearance. Read the complete guide here: https://lnkd.in/ehxaEahs Want to discuss your building's specific needs? Contact us for a free, comprehensive estimate: (765) 341-6020 #CommercialConstruction #BuildingRenovation #EIFS #EnergyEfficiency #PropertyManagement #CommercialRealEstate #BuildingMaintenance #Sustainability #ConstructionInnovation #BuildingScience #FacilityManagement #GreenBuilding

🚧 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲: 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗙𝗶𝗯𝗼 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 🚧 When it comes to public building projects—whether it’s schools, hospitals, sports halls, or offices—choosing the right materials can make all the difference. The pressure to balance durability, design, and cost-efficiency is real, and that's where Fibo comes in. ✨ 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗙𝗶𝗯𝗼? ✨ ✔️𝗨𝗻𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 – Built to withstand heavy traffic and rough use in public spaces. ✔️ 𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁-𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 – Faster installation and fewer materials mean lower overall costs. ✔️ 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗙𝗹𝗲𝘅𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 – From modern to classic styles, Fibo offers versatile designs that fit any project. ✔️ 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 – Seamless, waterproof surfaces make cleaning and upkeep a breeze. By choosing Fibo wall panels, you’re not just choosing a building material—you’re selecting a smart, sustainable solution that delivers on quality, efficiency, and long-term savings. Let’s build smarter. Let’s build with Fibo. 💪 https://lnkd.in/dAYrPe35 #publicbuildings #construction #architecture #sustainability #Fibo #buildingmaterials #costefficiency #designbyfibo