CHAPEL HILL, NC / ACCESSWIRE / June 26, 2020 / This modern, Net Zero – Net Positive house is a customized version of one of architect Arielle Condoret Schechter's Micropolis® houses, a collection of small, modern, sustainable house plans she continues to design that can be purchased outright or customized to accommodate specific needs.

Her clients, Cheryl and Ken Serdar, loved the original 950-square-foot plan but needed a bit more space. So, Schechter enlarged to 2222 heated square feet to include a spacious, spa-like bathroom and a third bedroom that Cheryl could use for her office and jewelry-making studio.

House in the Woods: Very Modern and Extremely Green.

Arielle C. Schechter, Architect, AIA was recently featured on the cover of Architect Blueprint™ Magazine. Image Credit: ArchitectBlueprint.com / Arielle C. Schechter, AIA / Iman Woods

Originally from Texas, the Serdars were clear about what they wanted. They told Schechter that they wanted their new home in the Piedmont region of North Carolina to be "very modern, extremely green, and almost industrial."

In form, function, and materials choices, the house is decidedly modern. The exterior walls are prefab concrete sandwich panels made to Schechter's specifications and brought to the site. The cypress soffit shields the interior from the high summer sun. All windows and doors are aluminum framed and the floors are primarily polished cement. A pivoting steel front door, sliding "barn doors," and built-in closets, cabinets, and shelving throughout the house are modern space-saving ideas.

Extensive glazing provides the Serdars with an abundance of natural light and natural ventilation. In the central living space, casement windows are combined with a wall of folding doors that open the entire back of the living/dining/kitchen area to the back porch, welcoming cool breezes inside during pleasant weather.

All those elements contribute to the house's environmental sensitivity. The Net Zero status takes it up to "extremely green."

In fact, the Serdars' modified Micropolis® house is the most energy-efficient residence Schechter has designed to date (and she's designed several Net Zero/Net Positive houses). It has a HERS rating of -13, compared to the average American house's very poor HERS rating of 100. Representatives from the independent rating company reported that this was the lowest/best rating they had ever seen.

Along with the cement floors, other details that give the house its minimalist, industrial ambiance are the exposed ducts and the extra-large factory fan from Big Ass Fans®.

Like their architect, the Serdars are passionate about animals and include cats in their household. For the felines' pleasure, Schechter enjoyed creating a "cat staircase" of simple, natural wood steps that lead up to a 12-foot-high platform in the living room.

Exploring Ideas

As Schechter was designing the master bath, she was "exploring ideas of what a luxurious bathroom can be," she said, "which ties in with my assertion that smaller houses let you put your money toward better quality in materials and details rather than square feet."

The walls of this elegant space are covered in large-scale black tile. A local artisan created a concrete trough double sink.

All cabinets and drawers are built in and the "water closet" is obscured behind a "barn door" to provide privacy in an otherwise open space. The star of the space is the lighted shoe storage/display closet Schechter devised for Cheryl Serdar's extensive collection of designer shoes.

Schechter names her Micropolis® house plans for certain inspirations they give her. She named this one "Happy Family" because she designed it to have two bedrooms, one on either end, as private retreats with a central shared space between them where the homeowners can be together. Schechter believes this plan offers "the type of spatial variety essential for a happy family."

What's Your Architectural Dream? Convert your thoughts and dreams into reality by taking that first step. Visit https://www.ACSArchitect.com for more information about Arielle C. Schechter, Architect

About Architect Blueprint™

Architect Blueprint™ reaches over 218,000+ Project Owners, Principals, Partners, Real Estate Developers, Architects, Designers, Builders, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Engineering Firms, Construction Professionals, Interior Designers, Industry Buyers, Commercial and Residential Property Owners and Real Estate Professionals, Industry CEO's and Executive Decision Makers, in both the USA and Canada.

Find out more about innovative and inspiring buildings, structures, projects, and the companies, products, and people that design, furnish and build them. If you are involved in, or serve the Architecture, Design, Building, Construction, Facilities Management or Real Estate Industries, Architect Blueprint™ Awe-Inspiring Style and Design™ is for you.

Visit https://ArchitectBlueprint.com for more information or call +1-877-463-9777 to collaborate with Architect Blueprint™ to help find the unique stories within your company to share. (Architect Blueprint™ is a 7 Figure PR™ Company Brand)

SOURCE: Architect Blueprint™

ReleaseID: 595397

WILMINGTON, DE / ACCESSWIRE / June 26, 2020 / Rigrodsky & Long, P.A.: Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. announces that a complaint has been filed in the United States District Court for the District of Nevada on behalf of all persons or entities that purchased the common stock of PlayAGS, Inc. ("PlayAGS" or the "Company") (NYSE:AGS) between August 2, 2018 and August 7, 2019, inclusive (the "Class Period"), alleging violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").

If you purchased shares of PlayAGS during the Class Period, or purchased shares prior to the Class Period and still hold PlayAGS, and wish to discuss this action or have any questions concerning this notice or your rights or interests, please contact Seth D. Rigrodsky or Timothy J. MacFall at Rigrodsky & Long, P.A., 300 Delaware Avenue, Suite 1220, Wilmington, DE 19801, by telephone at (888) 969-4242, by e-mail at info@rl-legal.com, or at http://rigrodskylong.com/cases-playags-inc.

The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, defendants made materially false and misleading statements, and omitted materially adverse facts, about the Company's business, operations and prospects. Specifically, the Complaint alleges that the defendants concealed from the investing public: (1) that PlayAGS was experiencing challenges in its business in Oklahoma; (2) that, as a result, the Company's recurring revenue would be negatively impacted; (3) that PlayAGS was experiencing challenges in its Interactive business segment, including delays in securing regulatory approvals and relevant licenses; (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, PlayAGS was reasonably likely to record a goodwill impairment; and (5) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects, were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. As a result of defendants' alleged false and misleading statements, the Company's stock traded at artificially inflated prices during the Class Period.

According to the Complaint, on August 7, 2019, PlayAGS reported a net loss of $7.6 million for second quarter 2019, which included a $3.5 million impairment to goodwill and $1.3 million impairment to intangible assets of the Company's iGaming reporting unit, due to extended regulatory timelines which delayed revenues.

On this news, shares of PlayAGS fell over 51%, closing at $8.31 per share on August 8, 2019, on heavy trading volume.

If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than August 24, 2020. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Any member of the proposed class may move the court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member.

Rigrodsky & Long, P.A., with offices in Delaware and New York, has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of investors and achieved substantial corporate governance reforms in numerous cases nationwide, including federal securities fraud actions, shareholder class actions, and shareholder derivative actions.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

CONTACT:

Rigrodsky & Long, P.A.
Seth D. Rigrodsky
Timothy J. MacFall
(888) 969-4242
(516) 683-3516
Fax: (302) 654-7530
info@rl-legal.com
http://www.rigrodskylong.com

SOURCE: Rigrodsky & Long, P.A.

ReleaseID: 595380

AUSTIN, TX / ACCESSWIRE / June 26, 2020 / The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has a long history of being committed to providing for the safety, reliability, and accessibility to the public it serves. The people of Texas have come to expect the best highway system in the United States from this agency and should be able to now expect the best transportation system for all its citizens.

TxDOT is proud to be a part of changes and progress that can unite, serve and further the safe and efficient movement of goods, services and people that ensure everyone is included in this process.

Texas Department of Transportation: Driving Commitment to the Americans With Disabilities Act

Texas Department of Transportation was recently featured on the cover of Architect Blueprint™ Magazine. Image Credit: ArchitectBlueprint.com / Texas Department of Transportation / ShutterStock.com

TxDOT is responsible for the operation and management of more than 195,000 lane miles of roadways on the State Highway System. This responsibility includes more than 53,000 bridges, 3,400 miles of interstate, an estimated 26,000 miles of sidewalks and other pedestrian facilities and more than 2,500 Department-owned buildings across the State.

The Department understands its duty to provide accessibility for all users of its services and programs, including persons with disabilities. TxDOT continually strives to provide accessible public services and facilities for persons using Texas's state roadways and other transportation facilities. Projects and activities include local agencies, advocacy groups and coordination with other agency civil rights programs, such as Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, Equal Employment Opportunity, On-the-Job Training, and Title VI/Nondiscrimination.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Overview

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that mandates an equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. The ADA prohibits accessibility discrimination to jobs, public accommodations, government services, public transportation, and telecommunications. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is required to conduct a comprehensive re-evaluation of its policies, programs, and facilities to determine the extent to which individuals with disabilities may be restricted in their access to services and activities.

Access to civic life by people with disabilities is a fundamental goal of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). To ensure this goal is met, Title II of the ADA requires state and local governments to make their programs and services accessible to persons with disabilities (28 CFR 35.149-35.151). This requirement extends not only to physical access at government facilities, programs, and events, but also to pedestrian facilities in public rights-of-way.

ADA Background

Adopted on July 26, 1990, the ADA is a federal civil rights law that provides protection for persons with disabilities against discrimination by public and private entities. The ADA extends similar, earlier protections provided by the Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504).

• Section 504 requires entities that receive federal financial assistance to ensure they do not discriminate against persons with disabilities when providing their services, programs and activities.

• The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability for operations conducted by State and local governments and for facilities owned by private businesses, even if they do not receive federal financial assistance.

• Title II of the ADA requires State and local governments to ensure their services, programs and activities are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities.

• Title III requires public accommodations and commercial facilities to ensure their buildings and sites are designed, constructed, and altered in compliance with accessibility standards.

As a State Transportation Agency (STA) and government entity, the operations of the Department are subject to both the requirements of Section 504 and Title II of the ADA. In addition, the Department provides oversight of, information and resources to, and coordinates transportation-related activities with other Title II agencies in Texas, including city and county governments: metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) and public transit providers.

As an employer within Texas State Government, and a provider and user of public and private services, the Texas Department of Transportation is also subject to requirements of ADA Title I (employment), Title III (contracts with private consultants and contractors) and Title IV (telecommunications services).

Texas Department of Transportation Projects

As a multi-modal transportation provider, TxDOT engages in a variety of projects to ensure the efficient movement of people, services and goods. Generally, when people think of "facilities", a road, bridge, vessel, travel information center or safety rest area does not come to mind. TxDOT provides direct and indirect assistance in such areas as Aviation, Rail, Maritime, and Public Transit. Many citizens participate in services offered in various public buildings, TxDOT leases or owns.

All persons must be able to participate in everyday civic life. As required by 28 CFR 35,107(1), the Department employs a Statewide ADA/504 Coordinator, Michael D. Bryant who has oversight of the grievance process and investigating complaints; training; providing technical assistance; customer service and other program services and activities. Juanita J. Webber, the Department's ADA Compliance Program Administrator since October 2016 was hired to provide specialized knowledge and skill and guidance to transform the ADA/504 Accessibility Program.

Webber spearheads all initiatives related to the grievance process and investigating complaints, training, technical assistance, customer service and other ADA activities. She is instrumental in directing outreach activities related to accessible transportation services and facilities. In addition, Webber guides the self-evaluation of TxDOT's policies, procedures and practices in all services, programs activities and facilities to identify and eliminate barriers to accessibility.

Design and Construction Phase

The Construction Division performs inspection and testing and provides administrative oversight for all department construction contracts. The division is responsible for contractor pre-qualification, bid proposal issuance and awarding (letting) construction and maintenance contracts.

It provides consultation to districts on project management, administration and inspection and testing throughout the project life cycle. Registered Accessibility Specialists (RAS) inspect projects for accessibility compliance during the construction phase.

Pecos West Safety Rest Area (I-10, approx. 25 miles west of Ft. Stockton)

The Pecos County Safety Rest Area is located on each side of Interstate 10 approximately 25 miles west of Fort Stockton. The project is a highway roadside rest area designed to invite in fatigued passing drivers that have been traveling the long West Texas highways.

The design is influenced by the native geological shapes, roadside mountains that have been cut away by erosion or man and the local history. Both the site and building run longitudinal in the East/West direction reflecting the westward expansion spirit of the past.

A dry creek and greenbelt of vegetation run through the middle of the site paying tribute to the natural springs that once flowed through this area that was the lifeline for humans and animals in this harsh desert environment. Limestone is utilized for the building and landscape material creating a timeless structure that appears to be growing out of the ground. The roof structures blend into the landscape following the contours of the distant mountain range. Corten steel is used for the picnic arbors allowing the steel to patina creating a timeless rustic appearance.

As the visitors approach the building they will notice how the building structure is suggestive of the surrounding mesas and built with layers of limestone similar to what they have just seen driving through the mountains cut away for the interstate. Walking through the lobby, the guest will experience the sound of the wood floor beneath their feet giving a sense of the past. Painting murals suspended on a sliding rail system depict the local history and features that allude to the westward movement. A south glass wall frames the view of the Davis Mountains on the horizon.

As visitors walk the site, they will be able to reflect upon the unique vegetation display in the area. Paths along the dry creek bed that lead to picnic arbors and eventually to the undisturbed nature path where the expansive raw beauty West Texas is evident for close viewing. Along the path from the parking are steel pedestrian bridges that cross the dry creek bed creating a physical transition into a space that mentally suggests the spirit of the region past and present.

The goal of the rest area is to both energize the body with respite and to energize the mind through imagination and appreciation of this unique place – resulting in a more alert driver ready to continue the journey down Texas highways.

Harbor Bridge Replacement Project

The Corpus Christi District is responsible for the operation and maintenance of state transportation facilities within the 10-county South Texas region known as the Coastal Bend. This includes responsibility for more than 7,000 lane miles of roadway and management of nearly $500 million in construction and maintenance operations in 2017. In addition, the District is also responsible for the delivery of the $803 million Harbor Bridge Replacement Project.

This design-build project addresses structural deficiencies and navigational restrictions of the current bridge and improves safety and connectivity at the SH 286/US 181/IH 37 interchange. The new bridge is currently not named. The existing bridge is commonly known as the "Harbor Bridge;" so the construction project is referred to as The Harbor Bridge Replacement Project. The Texas Department of Transportation has partnered with Flatiron/Dragados, LLC for the design and construction of the project. TxDOT awarded the project to Flatiron/Dragados, LLC in September 2015.

From the outset of the scoping phase of the project that was initiated in 2011, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) undertook proactive efforts to ensure that all stakeholders, including the adjacent minority communities, had meaningful opportunities for public participation in the decision-making process for the new bridge. TxDOT engaged the community through a series of neighborhood meetings and visits to stakeholder groups to determine their views as well as hear their ideas regarding the project. This outreach, which culminated in 95 public involvement events, provided meaningful input that stressed the need for better connectivity and ADA access in and around the project area.

As a result of the feedback, TxDOT required that existing pedestrian access would be maintained adjacent to and across the project construction corridor. In addition, TxDOT included the installation of new ADA compliant sidewalks and curb ramps within the project limits, consistent with the city of Corpus Christi's ADA Master Plan.

Signalized intersections will feature pedestrian signal elements, considering ambulatory, visual and auditory needs as well as detection equipment fully compliant with ADA and Texas Accessibility Standards.

A project highlight is the 10-foot-wide shared-use path that will traverse the entire length of the new bridge and connect two communities cohesively on either side of the bridge. The path will provide the highest viewpoint for a pedestrian in all South Texas and a panoramic view of Corpus Christi Bay and Downtown.

This feature is sure to be popular both with locals and tourists. Consequently, TxDOT worked closely with the Developer to design a trail head system to provide better community access to the shared-use path. These trail heads provide parking and ADA accessible ramps for easier access to the bridge. Weather, undoubtedly, is always a challenge during a construction project. Due to its location in a coastal region, the project must deal with not only rain, but also the constant gusty prevailing winds of the Gulf of Mexico. Working at the heights required by the new bridge makes this especially challenging.

Amadeo Saenz Ferry Vessel

More than 8 million passengers ride the Port Aransas and Galveston-Port Bolivar ferries annually. The two routes operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, weather permitting. The Port Aransas route runs between two and six ferries a day and connects travelers on SH 361 a link across the Corpus Christi Channel between Aransas Pass, on the mainland, and Port Aransas, on Mustang Island. The quarter-mile route typically takes less than ten minutes, although peak summer hours may require drivers to wait longer.

Each ferry can carry up to 20 regular passenger vehicles. Combined vehicles, such as a truck towing a boat, may not be longer than 80 feet, wider than 13 feet or taller than 13 feet 6 inches. Single-axle vehicles may weigh no more than 20,000 pounds, tandem axles no more than 34,000 pounds and combination vehicles may not exceed a total of 80,000 pounds. Since 2011, the ferry operations team at Port Aransas has chosen to utilize a 2-car ferry based on the amount of traffic and the number of tourists visiting the area.

When it is determined that a new vessel is needed, in compliance with the Code of Federal Regulations and the American Bureau of Shipping, then a naval architect is sought through the procurement process. TxDOT supplies a design plan to the naval architect based on size requirements and technology upgrade requirements and then retrofitted with the landings in Port Aransas. The new vessel is always designed consistently with all other TxDOT ‘sister' vessels.

The Coast Guard plays a pivotal role regarding ADA compliance. Vessel size and routes falls under the C.F.R.s governing the Coast Guard and the ADA. The distance of the route impacts whether a restroom must be included in the vessel design. For example, if the route is less than a ¼ mile or takes less than 3 minutes to transport passengers, a restroom is not required on the vessel. Other variables such as accessibility to and through door entrances, circulation path, approach, signage, and effective communication must be considered for persons with disabilities. Effective communication on ferries poses one of the biggest challenges TxDOT and persons with disabilities face.

Many vessels are older and cannot be retrofitted with new technology. TxDOT is currently working to provide effective communication on all its vessels. New technologies and methods are being evaluated at the time of this article. It is TxDOT's goal to ensure ADA compliance and inclusion for everyone.

Former employees who have served the Department in the Executive Director capacity are honored after serving by having a vessel named for them.

The vessels are usually named in the order in which a former executive director served. Amadeo Saenz, Jr. P. E. served in the capacity from 2007 to 2011. One of the newest vessels, The Amadeo Saenz was dedicated in March 2018.

Former employees who have served the Department in the Executive Director capacity are honored after serving by having a vessel named for them.

The vessels are usually named in the order in which a former executive director served. Amadeo Saenz, Jr. P. E. served in the capacity from 2007 to 2011. One of the newest vessels, The Amadeo Saenz was dedicated in March 2018.

Amarillo Travel Information Center

The Travel Information Division is tasked with promoting travel and tourism and travel safety in Texas while preserving the environment. This division administer programs such as Drive Clean Texas and Do not mess with Texas to keep Texas air clean and highways litter-free. It publishes Texas Highways, the state's official travel magazine, as well as the Texas Official Travel Map, Texas State Travel Guide, and other travel publications.

Also, under this division's oversight is DriveTexas.org, the state's official portal for highway conditions and emergency travel information, along with the associated toll-free Travel Information Line at 1-800-452-9292. Finally, TxDOT operates 12 Travel Information Centers to welcome visitors at points of entry to the state and at the Capitol Visitor Center in Austin and the Judge Roy Bean Visitor Center in Langtry.

These centers welcome approximately two million visitors per year, and provide travel and tourism recommendations and travel literature, as well as highway conditions and emergency travel information by answering the toll-free Drive Texas Travel Information Line. All TxDOT's Travel Information Centers are named for the city or town where they are located.

The Travel Information Centers first opened in June 1936 as a temporary amenity to assist travelers coming to Texas for the World's Fair and Texas Centennial celebrations in Dallas. They proved so useful and popular that the 44th Legislature moved to make them permanent that October.

Some locations have changed, and all facilities have been expanded and upgraded numerous times over the years; but their core mission of welcoming visitors, providing them with ideas of what to see and do in Texas, and keeping them safe on their travels through the state, remains the same.

The first Travel Information Centers were simply roadside booths staffed with Texas A&M Cadets. These attendants provided carhop-style service to travelers who never left their automobiles, so no accommodations were needed. All centers have been upgraded and expanded at various dates many times through the years.

In Amarillo, the most recent design began in the late 1990s, well after the initial implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the standards put forth in 1991. During the design process, the Maintenance and Travel Information Divisions made a point of ensuring that the facility, intended for public use, would not only meet, but exceed existing standards. The redesigned facility opened in 2002. Because of considerations taken in the design, the facility is in full compliance with and partially exceeds 2010 ADA standards.

Because the center maintains a close working relationship with the Amarillo District office, it is prioritized for plowing and ice melt during adverse winter weather conditions. In the past, the center has even remained open overnight to shelter stranded travelers.

Weather was the primary challenge in the design and construction of the Amarillo Travel Information Center. The Texas Panhandle is subject to high winds, extreme heat during the summer, and extreme cold, ice and snow during the winter. Additionally, the building's design, with its copper roof and layers of different-colored bricks representing the strata of rocks in nearby Palo Duro Canyon, posed challenges during the build.

The key players in this phase were the Maintenance Division Roadside Facilities Branch (the group that designs and maintains the state's unstaffed Safety Rest Areas) and Travel Information Division leadership. The design and construction and land acquisition costs were $3.8 million and $1.4 million, respectively, totaling a cost of $5.2 million. The key players in this phase were the Maintenance Division Roadside Facilities Branch (this is the group who designs and maintains the state's unstaffed Safety Rest Areas) and Travel Information Division leadership. The design and build cost were $3.8 million and the land acquisition cost was $1.4 million, for a total cost of $5.2 million.

The result fully justified these challenges. The Amarillo Travel Information Center was the recipient of the Brick Industry Association's 2003 Brick in Architecture Award, was featured in the July/August 2003 issue of Texas Architect magazine, and went on to win the 2004 Texas Society of Architects Design Award and the 2006 National Council of State Tourism Directors Mercury Award in the Travel Information/Welcome Center Programs category.

Inside TxDOT (Texas Department of Transportation). Find out more about the diverse range of TxDOT's divisions. Visit https://www.TXDOT.gov for more information about Texas Department of Transportation

About Architect Blueprint™

Architect Blueprint™ reaches over 218,000+ Project Owners, Principals, Partners, Real Estate Developers, Architects, Designers, Builders, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Engineering Firms, Construction Professionals, Interior Designers, Industry Buyers, Commercial and Residential Property Owners and Real Estate Professionals, Industry CEO's and Executive Decision Makers, in both the USA and Canada.

Find out more about innovative and inspiring buildings, structures, projects, and the companies, products, and people that design, furnish and build them. If you are involved in, or serve the Architecture, Design, Building, Construction, Facilities Management or Real Estate Industries, Architect Blueprint™ Awe-Inspiring Style and Design™ is for you.

Visit https://ArchitectBlueprint.com for more information or call +1-877-463-9777 to collaborate with Architect Blueprint™ to help find the unique stories within your company to share. (Architect Blueprint™ is a 7 Figure PR™ Company Brand)

SOURCE: Architect Blueprint™

ReleaseID: 595445

WINFIELD, KS / ACCESSWIRE / June 26, 2020 / Agora Architecture makes reference to their 1924 beginnings as being "humble yet explosive." Since then, they have relied on their legacy of success to continue moving forward in the world of architecture.

Based in Winfield, Kansas, the Agora team is dedicated to the success of their firm and utilizes state of the art technology, such as virtual reality, to continue their success into the future. For the past 93 years, Agora Architecture has been serving clients old and new. With 75% of their total clientele being returning customers, it is evident they are doing something right.

Making Virtual Reality: The New Reality of Architecture

Agora Architecture was recently featured on the cover of Architect Blueprint™ Magazine. Image Credit: ArchitectBlueprint.com / Agora Architecture

Intro to Cowley College Project

Agora undertook a large-scale project in their home state of Kansas by designing two new education centers and a courtyard gathering space for Cowley College in Wellington, Kansas. The Principal Architect on the project, Cheri Hulse, worked with other members of the design team to flawlessly integrate virtual reality into their workflow and thus impressed their client and maximized their effectiveness as a team.

Hulse and the design team were able to identify Cowley College as the perfect candidate to utilize this new technology since they too wanted to push the envelope of education and merge it with new technology. This project was Agora's first client to desire virtual reality, making it a challenge that, in the end, profited great success.

The project consisted of designing two education centers. The Technology and Innovation Center, a 17,163 sq.ft. building, housing instructional spaces for Information Technology, Agriculture, Welding, Machine Tooling, Mechatronics, Non-Destructive Testing, as well as General Classroom and Science Lab space. The second building, the Short General Education Center, is a 24,355 sq.ft., three-level building that will house Classrooms, Lecture Spaces, Faculty Offices, Conference Rooms, a Student Resource Center, a Kitchen and Dining Area, and a large Community Room.

Virtual Reality Software Use

The team utilized Revit, Autodesk Software, to create their models and they utilized a Revit plug-in called Enscape to enhance the grass, trees, people, and building finishes. After creating this photorealistic visual experience, the rendering program was then uploaded to Iris-VR's Scope App for easy distribution and accessibility.

Cowley College's initial goal behind using virtual reality was to communicate the design of the buildings to potential donors. The college planned to unveil the design at a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the new campus and expected around 250 people to attend, including 25 dignitaries from the State of Kansas. This proved to be a large challenge with a successful finish.

The Unveiling

Cowley College chose to use cardboard viewers for the event to make VR accessible to each individual. Guests to the event were able to leave with a viewer. During the groundbreaking, these viewers were distributed along with step-by-step instruction brochures that were created to show how to download the Scope application, put in the code, and see the model in virtual reality.

Short General Education Center rendering of the 24,355 sq, ft. three story building that will house Classrooms, Lecture Spaces, Faculty Offices, Conference Rooms, a Student Resource Center, a Kitchen and Dining Area and a large Community Room.

This allowed Agora to create a virtual reality that was easily accessed by a large amount of people in a short amount of time. For those that were not able to use their personal phone for viewing, there were previously set up devices available with the assistance of student ambassadors from the college.

Redefining the Client Experience

Together with Cowley College, Agora redefined the donor experience as well as the client experience. They recognized the importance of impressing both the client as well as potential donors and thus were able to successfully show Phase 1 of the campus before it was even built. The reaction of the attendees was pure amazement and awe.

Not only were the attendees in awe, but even those that had been a part of the design process from the beginning were impressed with this new technology. Agora felt confident that the benefits of virtual reality would exceed their goals and expectations. Their confidence in their technology paid off, as Jan Grace with Cowley College raved, "We needed to create excitement and allow the attendees to ‘visualize' the future. This method created more excitement than anticipated!"

Technology and Teamwork

Virtual reality is changing the way the Agora Architecture team works together. When one architect did not fully understand or was not on board with another's idea, it was quite simple to view the model in virtual reality and get a definitive decision without wasting any time.

Virtual reality also allowed Hulse and her team to make more informed decisions, such as changing the roofline on one of the buildings thanks to the ability to see the need for modifications in virtual reality.

Hulse shared the importance of virtual reality in her team's decision-making stating, "By introducing virtual reality, we think we saved time both internally and externally with decision-making. We were able to button up schematic design in good time because the client was able to understand the design easily and give their approval." As the second oldest and most experienced firm in the state of Kansas, Agora continues to make their mark utilizing traditions from their past while creating legacies for their future.

What's Your Architectural Dream? Convert your thoughts and dreams into reality by taking that first step. Visit http://AgoraArchitecture.com for more information about Agora Architecture.

About Architect Blueprint™

Architect Blueprint™ reaches over 218,000+ Project Owners, Principals, Partners, Real Estate Developers, Architects, Designers, Builders, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Engineering Firms, Construction Professionals, Interior Designers, Industry Buyers, Commercial and Residential Property Owners and Real Estate Professionals, Industry CEO's and Executive Decision Makers, in both the USA and Canada.

Find out more about innovative and inspiring buildings, structures, projects, and the companies, products, and people that design, furnish and build them. If you are involved in, or serve the Architecture, Design, Building, Construction, Facilities Management or Real Estate Industries, Architect Blueprint™ Awe-Inspiring Style and Design™ is for you.

Visit https://ArchitectBlueprint.com for more information or call +1-877-463-9777 to collaborate with Architect Blueprint™ to help find the unique stories within your company to share. (Architect Blueprint™ is a 7 Figure PR™ Company Brand)

SOURCE: Architect Blueprint™

ReleaseID: 595411

TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA / ACCESSWIRE / June 26, 2020 / The vision of WZMH Architect's Intelligent Structural Panel is conceptually simple: take all the components and processes that go into constructing a building and combine it into one product – but enable floors and walls to connect to technology so they become intelligent.

The ISP panel is fabricated off-site with skilled labour, installed on-site with minimal labour and is 100% complete once its ‘plugged' in. Many of the components that are installed after the structure is in place (i.e. mechanical, electrical, IT, etc.) are now part of the ISP panel.

ISP: Intelligent Structural Panel®

WZMH Architects was recently featured on the cover of Architect Blueprint™ Magazine. Image Credit: ArchitectBlueprint.com / WZMH Architects / Ruta Krau

Creating a More Intelligent Building System

WZMH Architect's Intelligent Structural Panel (ISP) is a concept idea that combines two very different components – a sandwich plate system and the ‘Internet of Things'. These two components result in an intelligent building system that can be used for floors and walls in lieu of traditional structural elements such as reinforced concrete or steel decking – but with the added benefit of containing the building's intelligent infrastructure.

WZMH Architect's is taking the lead on a 12-person ISP project team (which consists of additional members from the engineering firms Quasar Consulting Group, Stephenson Engineering, and start-up C3PoE), working in collaboration with Microsoft's AI & IoT Insider Labs to develop the ISP panels.

The Intelligent Structural Panel (ISP) includes a sandwich plate system pioneered by Intelligent Engineering, known as SPS® (www.ie-sps.com) which includes a top steel plate, polyurethane core (developed jointly by BASF) and a bottom steel plate. The thickness of the SPS® panel varies depending on project requirements but generally a 50mm thick panel is equivalent to a 200mm thick reinforced concrete slab.

The ISP solution incorporates a number of various electronic components within the core of the SPS panel – resulting in a structural panel that in essence acts as a computer motherboard – with sensors, speakers, electrical and data distribution, heat and smoke detection, radiant floor heating, etc. The ISP incorporates a large number of what are typically surface mounted and exposed services – all contained within the core of the panel.

The key feature of the ISP is the intelligent infrastructure that communicates with the Internet of Things and provides a solution for the occupants in the building that is geared towards a user friendly, barrier-free, accessible and safe environment. The future of the ISP will be a panel system that will be capable of an infinite number of solutions for all users of buildings.

The Concept

The Intelligent Structural Panel is a prefabricated and modular structural solution for floors and walls for all building types.

The ISP's structural component is the sandwich panel that consists of top and bottom steel plates (or other metals such as aluminum) that are bonded to a core such as polyurethane. The composite action of the sandwich plate system (SPS) provides for a structural solution that is much lighter and thinner in depth versus traditional solutions (steel decking with concrete or reinforced concrete). The SPS system can also be used for structural shear walls around elevator and stair shafts and other locations – this combined with the ‘intelligent' core will result in a truly smart building from top to bottom.

The core of the sandwich plate system is the polyurethane which bonds the two steel plates of the SPS panel and the element which binds all electronic and other components of the panel – resembling that of a computer motherboard or microchip.

The components within the core of the panel, when connected with the building's infrastructure, results in horizontal and vertical surfaces that in essence become ‘live' and interactive with the occupants – resulting in a built environment that is designed to make our lives safer, efficient, user friendly, mobile, barrier-free, flexible and enjoyable.

How It Works

The Intelligent Structural Panel works by incorporating ‘smart' components within the core of horizontal and vertical surfaces within buildings. Occupants that work or circulate within spaces that include the ISP panels interact with intelligent infrastructure through sensors that area triggered by touch (hand and foot movement), sound (voice commands), and other interactive devices such as canes, mobile devices, etc.

The ISP panels are modular (can be constructed of any size up to the limitations imposed by shipping and installation on site) and are designed to be connected to each other through the edges of the panels. Solutions include: traditional male and female connectors, universal plug-in points and connectivity between panels by simply touching the ends together (by means of two continuous copper strips).

The ISP panels connect at the floor (which includes the ceiling) and wall surfaces with the various connector options and to a common (or multiple) Point of Presence (POP) on the floor or within the building. This POP room (which can also be constructed of ISP panels) will be the main gathering hub for all communicating entities (demarcation point) that service the ISP and the exit path to connect to other buildings and infrastructure (road networks, etc.) The ISP panel includes technology that incorporates both wireless and wired communication including Wi-Fi and Li-Fi (visible light communication).

The ISP also includes technology that replaces traditional building components such as life safety and heating components. The ISP panel includes a VESDA (very early smoke detection apparatus) system via pin hole locations scattered throughout the bottom (or top or both sides) of the panel.

Radiant heating is accomplished by harnessing the heat generated by the internal electronic components and releasing this warm energy at selected locations – including infrared radiation from the ceiling. The ISP panels, being modular, allow for easy removal and replacement to address deficiencies or technological improvements. As technology improves over time, it is envisioned that only certain ISP panels will need to be replaced (for example, one or two within an office floor plate) and the remaining panels can remain in situ.

Basic Components

The Intelligent Structural Panel (ISP) is made up of three key components: steel or metal plates, binding core (polyurethane) and the electronic technology. The steel or metal plates and the polyurethane core is the sandwich plate system by Intelligent Engineering, known as SPS (www.ie-sps.com). The steel or metal plates and core can be provided in various thicknesses – all dependent on the use and structural loads that the panel must accommodate. Detailed information on the steel plates and the core is available through Intelligent Engineering.

The electronic technology or computer motherboard within the core of the ISP makes the panel system ‘intelligent' and is designed to connect to multiple modules – both horizontal and vertical. Connectivity between panels is via plug-in type connectors that bundle all wiring (including fibre optics) in multiple locations along the perimeter edge of the panel to allow for precision coupling to adjacent ISP panels.

Sub-components or parts of the ISP panel include items necessary to ensure the spaces that are formed by the panel are safe and comfortable environments. These subcomponents include: intumescent coating (paint) applied to the steel plates to provide a fire-resistance rating (if required); floor underlayment for acoustical purposes and; light-emitting diodes, attached to the panel for emergency and general lighting purposes.

Benefits of the ISP

The Intelligent Structural Panel (ISP) incorporates both technology and structure into one component, resulting in a building where the ‘skeleton' or frame is ‘smart' and provides the occupants with an environment that has access to the Internet of Things.

By incorporating technology into the structure and modularizing the panels (ISP panels manufactured off-site), the process of constructing a building is more efficient and completed in a shorter timeframe versus traditional solutions. A building constructed of ISP panels will required less workers on site versus traditional builds as a result of combining the majority of electrical and data distribution within the modular panel.

Use of the ISP panel as a floor assembly in office environments allows for complete flexibility in the design and configuration of open workstations and fixed offices. The panels include a multitude of ports to connect both power and data and it is envisioned that the future generations of the ISP will allow for just one connection on any location on the panel for both power and data.

One of the key benefits of the Intelligent Structural Panel is in-floor sensors that can interact with a large number of devices including: canes for the visually impaired to direct them throughout buildings, subway stations, airports, etc.

For those that are hearing impaired, interaction between in-floor sensors and handheld devices will identify people or moving objects at busy corridor intersections. Minuscule vibrations in the floor at their sitting or standing location will notify both visually and hearing-impaired persons of an emergency and where to evacuate safely.

The benefits of the ISP is really limitless when the concept goes well beyond the building structure and starts to incorporate certain things people use on a day to day basis: floors for buses, railway cars, streetcars and subways, crosswalks at key intersections, furniture, etc. When the ISP concept is integrated into the infrastructure to travel and be present at the places we live, work and play, the environment created will be one that will truly be safer and accessible to all.

ISP Raised Access Flooring

The Intelligent Structural Panel (ISP) replaces traditional concrete steel pan raised access floor tiles with an ‘all in one' flooring solution for office and mission-critical environments. All power, IT and security cabling is integrated into the panel resulting in a ‘wire-free' space. With the added benefit of in-floor sensors, the ISP raised access floor tiles monitor air movement and temperature – either above or below the floor and provide smoke detection (VESDA).

The panels interconnect at the edges with copper strips that are in compression when tightly fitted against another panel. When panels need to be removed (for access below the floor), power/IT/security within the ISP is re-routed remotely from a computer – zero disruption to operations. IT equipment (racks and servers) plug directly into the ISP panel or are connected via a wireless solution.

The ISP raised access floor panel can be seen as the potential first step in transformation of a complete building structure to an intelligent solution or this solution can be used in existing buildings to retrofit the floor (not the ceiling) to provide many features and components of the ISP.

What's Your Architectural Dream? Convert your thoughts and dreams into reality by taking that first step. Visit https://www.WZMH.com for more information about WZMH Architects.

About Architect Blueprint™

Architect Blueprint™ reaches over 218,000+ Project Owners, Principals, Partners, Real Estate Developers, Architects, Designers, Builders, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Engineering Firms, Construction Professionals, Interior Designers, Industry Buyers, Commercial and Residential Property Owners and Real Estate Professionals, Industry CEO's and Executive Decision Makers, in both the USA and Canada.

Find out more about innovative and inspiring buildings, structures, projects, and the companies, products, and people that design, furnish and build them. If you are involved in, or serve the Architecture, Design, Building, Construction, Facilities Management or Real Estate Industries, Architect Blueprint™ Awe-Inspiring Style and Design™ is for you.

Visit https://ArchitectBlueprint.com for more information or call +1-877-463-9777 to collaborate with Architect Blueprint™ to help find the unique stories within your company to share. (Architect Blueprint™ is a 7 Figure PR™ Company Brand)

SOURCE: Architect Blueprint™

ReleaseID: 595403

FAIRVIEW, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / June 26, 2020 / Why is it that all the good parking spots always seem to be taken?

You planned ahead, beat traffic gridlock, safely arrive at your destination, and then waste precious time being forced to tour level after level of a parking garage looking for a spot – any spot, for your car.

From a purely architectural standpoint, form follows function when precisely planning alternate vehicle parking and storage options of any magnitude.

ParkPlus Inc. Leads the High Density Parking and Vehicle Storage Industry With Space-Saving Custom Solutions

ParkPlus, Inc. was recently featured on the cover of Architect Blueprint™ Magazine. Image Credit: ArchitectBlueprint.com / ParkPlus, Inc.

Municipal Mayhem

On the flip side of the general public's aggravation with searching for that coveted parking spot many architects and other industry professionals must deal with sometimes strict zoning ordinances.

Although developments in sprawling suburbs rarely present design difficulties regarding sufficient parking spaces, urban projects are an entirely different animal. Feasibility studies, best-use analysis, and zoning restrictions all direct the probability of profitability.

Congested urban areas demand strict attention to the improvement to land ratio for any given plot. As such, "Going Vertical" as they say is a necessity. All too often typical parking garage structures steal valuable real estate footprint away from a projects primary useful space. There has to be another way to cope with these complications.

Lunch and Learn

"Holy City Parking Crunch" was a recent roundtable ParkPlus sponsored and participated in with the Urban Land Institute South Carolina (ULISC). About 80 representatives from real estate development interests attended focusing on the city's parking challenges.

ParkPlus followed up with an equally enlightening "Lunch and Learn" for 30 Charleston area architects who witnessed the marvels of ParkPlus' parking systems. In addition to the first Double Stackers installed in the city at the Holiday Inn (situated on historic Meeting St.), another 59 of ParkPlus' Double Stackers are now in the basement of Hotel Bennett on Marion Square – Charleston's most prominent address.

This accommodation allows guests to never again be at a loss for convenient parking. Despite the complexities of below grade projects, ParkPlus enabled Hotel Bennett to combine aesthetics with reasonable cost while conquering the "F" word (flooding) in this coastal community.

It was only a few years ago that stacking cars in downtown Charleston was at best a novel and outlandish concept. Thanks to ParkPlus' unique solution, creative parking is the new norm for enlightened development.

Continuing Education

ParkPlus recently announced the coming launch of an AIA Certified Continuing Education course on Sustainable High-Density Parking Systems. The course is approaching completion and will be available in both an Online and Lunch and Learn format.

The course will help architects understand the different types of High-Density Parking systems, Performance and Benefits and Design Considerations, Building Code & Fire Dept. The feedback received from industry professionals demonstrated the need for such a course with hundreds of architects signing up already.

Spatial Parking

Whether it be retail, office, lodging, niche commercial, or even personal, ParkPlus is at the forefront of parking solutions. Many times, in architecture and development, less is more. Take the first private in-ground pit parking system as an example. This semi-automated 2 space residential car parking and storage unit includes safety sensor technology and a reinforced upper deck to match on-grade paving.

With just a push of a button, your vehicle rises forth from the ground – ready to go! Amazing…thanks to ParkPlus. From "one-and-done" to several hundred bay parking projects, there is no question that ParkPlus ensures harmony on all fronts.

Sustainable architecture is key. By nature, efficient parking designs embrace holistic elements. Consideration extends from the end user to include all those that may be affected. Environmental resources, such as energy and water are valued and protected.

Carbon footprints are effectively reduced thus immediately benefiting neighboring tenants and businesses, the local area, and the ecosystem at large. Social well-being.

"Going vertical" in the parking and storage industry fosters convenience while enhancing safety at the same time. Theft and accidental damage are minimized. Drop off and pick-up of vehicles utilizing the "localized" concept magnifies efficiency. Financial feasibility.

Space and time are literally compressed with "silo" parking and storage solutions resulting in cost containment due to reduced operation and maintenance outflow. "Stacking" is now seen as the savior of capacity and revenues. And do not forget coveted tax benefits.

Quad Stackers provide Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC with 108 parking spaces on only a 4,000 sq.ft. footprint.

Parking Innovations

ParkPlus' expertise encompasses AVSRS, Car Stackers®, and display units. These patented solutions are the result after 50 years of nonstop innovation and dedication. Automated Vehicle Storage and Retrieval Systems (AVSRS) revolutionized parking.

With the backing of a global footprint, ParkPlus dominates automated and mechanical vehicle storage systems in North America. With headquarters in New Jersey, ParkPlus' influence extends well past the NYC Metro area. Regional offices are established in the East, West and Southern United States.

World-renowned clients such as Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Central Parking (SP+), Icon Parking, The Related Companies, Tishman Speyer, Snapchat, Apple, Beats Music and New York University sought out ParkPlus to execute complex projects.

Auto Dealer Spotlight

A stunning example of shining star marketing via storage solutions came into existence with the "Jewel Box" design. Customized to showcase vehicles, ParkPlus made this glass wall creation a reality for Mercedes Benz of Woodlands, TX. Perfectly placed on top of the dealership's building, a featured vehicle is positioned for maximum exposure.

Of course, continuity with existing architecture is of prime importance while at the same time exhibiting vehicles for impactful advertising and shortened sales cycles (increased profits). The "Jewel Box" uniquely presents auto dealer inventory by setting a special showroom window in the sky for all to see.

Across the country in Manhattan, a ParkPlus designed a 360-space mechanical system allowing a flagship Mercedes dealer to utilize suspended platform technology for both their service and inventory departments. This "clean" full electric installation also cut maintenance costs.

Parking Projects

ParkPlus' diverse project resume speaks for itself. Hoboken Waterfront (NJ) developers saved $1.2 million when ParkPlus' Double Stackers eliminated the need for an extra parking deck. The mixed-use project was enhanced with 124 space parking. As a bonus, the structure was hot-dipped galvanized enabling coastal climate longevity.

Unusually shaped garage showcases the AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) system's ability to maximize parking capacity in a small asymmetrical space.

Another first for ParkPlus involved "Triples" that allowed a client to bring in more tenants. The Los Angeles commercial office property invested in a 132-space mechanical system of Triple Stackers. All it took was the addition of pilings for this turnkey project to add value to the bottom line.

ParkPlus' turnkey Quad Stackers provided desperately needed staff parking for Mount Sinai Hospital in East Harlem, NYC. After signing a lease and completing sections of construction the 108-space system became a true blessing. Depending on the specifications for any project, architects, development, and construction professionals join forces to either secure zoning variances or assist ParkPlus in demonstrating acceptable alternatives in the form of creative parking and storage solutions.

Parking Utopia

ParkPlus quickly removes parking pain by permanently replacing it with effective solutions that directly benefit the communities they serve. Given the fact that expert project managers and architects have a hand in ParkPlus' award-winning service it's no surprise they turned the dread of parking into an exciting experience all in itself.

Automated and self-parking solutions provided by ParkPlus span the commercial and residential markets as well as serve private parties with spectacular and lasting results.

With the finesse of a white-gloved sommelier handling a bottle of fine wine, ParkPlus ensures their systems will always provide a secure spot for parking and storage needs. In fact, whether you're an architect, auto dealer, real estate developer, or final-use client, the next time you hear the word "parking" a smile will spread across your face knowing that ParkPlus has a custom solution that will work for your project.

What Are Your Creative Parking Solution Needs? Take that first step on converting your parking problems into something innovative. Visit https://ParkPlusInc.com for more information about ParkPlus, Inc.

About Architect Blueprint™

Architect Blueprint™ reaches over 218,000+ Project Owners, Principals, Partners, Real Estate Developers, Architects, Designers, Builders, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Engineering Firms, Construction Professionals, Interior Designers, Industry Buyers, Commercial and Residential Property Owners and Real Estate Professionals, Industry CEO's and Executive Decision Makers, in both the USA and Canada.

Find out more about innovative and inspiring buildings, structures, projects, and the companies, products, and people that design, furnish and build them. If you are involved in, or serve the Architecture, Design, Building, Construction, Facilities Management or Real Estate Industries, Architect Blueprint™ Awe-Inspiring Style and Design™ is for you.

Visit https://ArchitectBlueprint.com for more information or call +1-877-463-9777 to collaborate with Architect Blueprint™ to help find the unique stories within your company to share. (Architect Blueprint™ is a 7 Figure PR™ Company Brand)

SOURCE: Architect Blueprint™

ReleaseID: 595413

SEATTLE, WA / ACCESSWIRE / June 26, 2020 / The Masonry in Seattle, WA earned a reputation for mouth-watering wood-fired pizza and an impressive tap list soon after they opened their original 39 seat restaurant in Seattle's Lower Queen Anne neighborhood in 2013.

The owners had always envisioned a larger second location to complement the original location and soon started their search for another restaurant with more space for bottle and keg storage and culinary experimentation.
 

Seattle's Masonry: Collaborative Companies Designs and Builds Beer-Centric Seattle Restaurant 2nd Location in Fremont

Collaborative Companies was recently featured on the cover of Architect Blueprint™ Magazine. Image Credit: ArchitectBlueprint.com / Collaborative Companies / Alex Crook / Built Work Photography
 

The owners brought on Seattle design / build firm, Collaborative Companies, to help with the search and build out of the new restaurant. Collaborative designed the furniture for The Masonry's original location and had a strong sense of the desired look and feel for the new space.

After seriously considering a few spaces in Pioneer Square and Downtown, Hess & Callahan Partners approached The Masonry about a new building in the heart of Fremont – a hip neighborhood just north of Queen Anne buzzing with restaurants, bars and big companies including Google, Brooks and Tableau. As fellow beer fanatics, Hess & Callahan Partners were attracted to The Masonry's casual atmosphere and exotic beer selection. The new restaurant is located in a brand new 4,300 square-foot space that features 150 seats (plus another 60 outside), twenty-four draft lines and two temperature controlled bottle coolers-nearly 4x the amount of space as the original location with more than enough places to store flavorful beers from all over the world.

The major elements of the space including the wood-fired pizza oven, kitchen, and bar with custom keg storage, were laid out before building completion and acted as the building blocks for the restaurant's layout. The L-shaped restaurant is sectioned into spaces to serve the pizza bar, communal table space, beer bar, pub games and private event space.

The centrally located kitchen was strategically placed so it can easily service both the pizza and beer bars, while the communal tables were placed in the front of the floor- to-ceiling windows to engage with the street and create an indoor/outdoor dining experience in the warmer months.

With a core palette of concrete and glass, the Collaborative team decided to introduce a wood soffit to add warmth and materiality to the space, while also driving visual interest down into the restaurant and away from the exposed mechanical systems common in modern industrial office buildings.

The Birch soffit starts on the ground at the entrance of the restaurant, goes up the wall to the ceiling and then weaves through the space like one large brush stroke connecting all the different stations within the space. Maintaining the neutral palette of concrete and white left an opportunity to integrate pops of color into the space, which was one of The Masonry's wishes. The soffit was hand painted by a San Francisco artist known for abstract murals. The Masonry also wanted to integrate an existing element from the original restaurant – the bottle pendant lights – which help to visually connect the two location.

Collaborative also selected a collection of Random Lights by Moooi to complement the pendant lights and establish a stronger street presence. The communal tables, wood storage, keg storage, and record player cabinet were all designed in-house by the Collaborative team. The owners and employees record collection features a variety of music from motown to hip- hop to create a casual- cool atmosphere. The new Masonry location opened in December 2017 and has quickly become a neighborhood destination for pizza and beer lovers alike.

What's Your Architectural Dream? Convert your thoughts and dreams into reality by taking that first step. Visit http://Collaborativeco.com for more information about Collaborative Companies

About Architect Blueprint™

Architect Blueprint™ reaches over 218,000+ Project Owners, Principals, Partners, Real Estate Developers, Architects, Designers, Builders, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Engineering Firms, Construction Professionals, Interior Designers, Industry Buyers, Commercial and Residential Property Owners and Real Estate Professionals, Industry CEO's and Executive Decision Makers, in both the USA and Canada.

Find out more about innovative and inspiring buildings, structures, projects, and the companies, products, and people that design, furnish and build them. If you are involved in, or serve the Architecture, Design, Building, Construction, Facilities Management or Real Estate Industries, Architect Blueprint™ Awe-Inspiring Style and Design™ is for you.

Visit https://ArchitectBlueprint.com for more information or call +1-877-463-9777 to collaborate with Architect Blueprint™ to help find the unique stories within your company to share. (Architect Blueprint™ is a 7 Figure PR™ Company Brand)

SOURCE: Architect Blueprint™

ReleaseID: 595405