COVID-19 will inevitably change the spaces we use the most. How can architects, designers and builders best prepare? The building materials we use are key. Traditional building materials are clearing the way for better and more advanced “smart” materials. Smart building materials are different from traditional materials in that they are specially designed with numerous
Architectural and interior design plans for new commercial projects take a variety of factors into consideration. Coronaviruses, like the COVID-19 pandemic, shine a light on one of the most critical aspects for consideration: the infrastructure-based measures that support infection control to create a healthy environment. Specifying smart building materials that maintain agility, openness, and access
Studies show that natural light in office spaces improves employee satisfaction and productivity. That’s because natural light helps regulate the body’s natural circadian rhythms (sleep-wake schedules). Research proves that natural light helps people be more productive, happier, and calmer. In this blog, we will delve into the positive effects of natural light in office settings,
Hospital designers consider a variety of factors when planning a new healthcare facility, from fire safety to building material selection. But one of the most critical aspects for consideration is the infrastructure based measures that support infection control by creating a healthy and sterile environment. Medical facilities are a public space that requires a combination
For every traveler, finding the right accommodation, that is affordable, comfortable, and convenient, is one of the more difficult aspects of frictionless traveling. And – finding a place to work, relax, rest, or recharge while in transit leaves even fewer options. Many times we find ourselves laying on an airport floor that is uncomfortable and,
Smart Glass. Smart Glazing. Switchable Glass. Regardless of what we call it, the general definition is “glass that changes to different levels of opacity and transparency on demand for light control”. If you’re just starting your research on smart glass, you’re probably seeing the two most common types pop up: SPD and PDLC. While industry
With the rise of e-commerce, many say that the future of brick and mortar is grim. According to the US Chamber of Commerce, consumers spent $513.61 billion online alone. But, despite this shockingly high number, 85% of shoppers still prefer to purchase in person. This shows, that despite our lives being digitalized, we still crave
If you are in the market for a new office, you might be feeling like you remember having more space. And you would, in fact, be completely right. You’ll find yourself thinking, “If I do take this office, what type of interior design tricks are there to maximize space or smart materials for space optimization?”
Electrically switchable glass partitions and walls add adaptability and give a “WOW” effect to interior office designs. Switchable glass with PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) technology can easily transform a space from open and shared, to private and intimate, and anywhere in between with dimming features. This is especially helpful in agile work environments based
Throughout the 20th century, hospitals were designed with the healthcare providers in mind, not the patients. As a result, the functionality of the physical space within a hospital was of far less importance than how a patient actually felt in the space. Evidence based design, or EBD, is the process of constructing a building based
