(Please note: The Study Guide is a White Paper entitled "Alvar Aalto, the father of modern wood ceilings", which is intended to be a part of the course. Please download it upon enrolling.) A comprehensive discussion of the key factors that inform and influence the specification of a suspended wood ceiling. This course covers the benefits of suspended wood ceilings; materials including wood options such as veneers, solid wood or reclaimed wood; sustainability attributes; and performance characteristics.

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In this course we'll explore the changing world of acoustics. 

An evolution in the built environment is creating an increased need for sound control. Growing evidence shows that adequate acoustics can have positive, rippling effects on occupants. In this presentation, we will investigate how the changes taking place are translating to tangible benefits in corporate, education and hospitality spaces.

This course provides an overview of the important factors - such as building codes, safety of use and fall protection, material selection, secure installation methods, and design - that must be considered when selecting or specifying a railing system for a commercial or residential project.

The program will discuss how architects and designers can get a better understanding of the market today in regards to developing a strategic plan. Attendees will ascertain a clearer perception on how to respond to market challenges based on the overall business strategies developed.

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A tour of the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia reveals Antoni Gaudí’s design links to sustainability through integration of natural lighting principals, natural ventilation, Integrated design, and borrowing freely from natural structures. One AIA LU/HSW credit will be awarded for touring Gaudí’s Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain with a licensed tour guide provided by The Barcelona Guide Bureau. Tours are one hour long, after which you are welcome to stay and enjoy exploring the building on your own.Tour tickets (the majority of which constitute a donation to the construction of the Basilica) may be purchased through the link provided. A 5% discount is offered on all tickets purchased through TCA when you use the promotional code “TCABarcelona”. TCA is not benefitting financially from this offer. Tours of additional sites in Barcelona are also available through the Barcelona Guide Bureau at http://www.barcelonaguidebureau.com/daily-tours/ To gain a discount for private or group tours, please mention TCA. To claim your credit simply send us your contact information, along with confirmation of your ticketing (ticket info, receipt, or scan) to TCABarcelona@thecontinuingarchitect.com and we will provide you with a certificate and, if you’re an AIA member, we’ll report your credits to AIA on your behalf.

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Whether Contemporary or Traditionally styled, today's sophisticated kitchens require careful appliance location detailing. While many kitchen designers do not provide the appliances, product knowledge and planning expertise around these important pieces of equipment is highly valued by today's consumer. Therefore, kitchen experts need to be well versed in the details of appliance operation, and be creative when locating them in the plan.

This course will explain the benefits of designing with structural insulated panels (SIPs) for residential applications. The designer will gain a better understanding of application, assembly and detailing in order to properly utilize SIPs for optimum energy efficiency and durability. Through case studies and design strategies, the designer will walk away from this course with a better understanding of designing for current industry standards with SIPs.

This fascinating course explores three new and innovative architectural products, each made from precision woven architectural fabric: a new exterior fabric membrane that allows for entirely new forms and functionalities in permanent static or kinetic fabric constructions; a new modular ceiling system made from photometrically and acoustically optimized precision fabric; and a new composite facade material made from a combination of glass, fabric and metal. Design and application, and the functional and sustainable benefits provided by each innovation are explored through real-world projects.

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This course looks at the differences between construction adhesives based on their core chemical makeup. It compares and contrasts VOC regulations and restrictions for indoor air versus those for outdoor air. It will compare the most commonly referenced subfloor adhesive performance specifications, identify their similarities and differences, and point out how lab conditions can differ from real world field conditions. Finally, this course will look at podium construction and the challenges created for adhesives due to varying manufactured wood based substrates and due to VOC restrictions.

Innovative Water Conservation Fixture Systems, presented by Zurn, explores critical issues related to water usage and the need for water conservation awareness and implementation. Through this course, students are provided strategies for implementing effective water conservation initiatives and are introduced to a multitude of innovative water conserving fixture systems that consume far less water than standards currently demand, without sacrificing performance or comfort. Additionally, industry performance tests are reviewed, water consumption calculators are demonstrated and water efficiency as it relates to LEED credits is defined.

(Please note: The Study Guide is a research paper produced by the White House detailing innovative Water Conservation efforts and resources across the country. It is intended to supplement this course. Please download upon enrolling.)