Due to skilled labor shortages, compressed schedules, and the potential for greater quality control, off-site wood construction has become increasingly popular. This presentation will cover the unique design and construction techniques associated with pre-fabricated and off-site panelized wood systems. An introduction to the different levels of off-site construction and review of associated products and services will be followed by a demonstration of cost and schedule benefits based on real-world projects. A step-by-step process will be presented for designers new to off-site construction, with information on how to find and utilize partners and resources, the integrated design process, and differences compared to traditional on-site methods. Trends and future projections for the use of off-site construction, as well as its advantages, will also be reviewed.

This course explores the features and numerous sustainable benefits of using high velocity/low speed fans for air destratification, supplemental cooling, improved indoor air quality, and human productivity. Topics covered include ideal applications, fan selection and planning, and code requirements for HVLS fans.

(Please note: The Study Guide is a comprehensive report on washroom design for ADA compliance and is intended to be part of this course. Please download it upon enrolling.) Multigenerational design, also known as transgenerational design, is an increasingly important aspect of universal design and a major contemporary trend mirroring the dramatic societal and economic changes of the last decades. In particular, public restrooms illustrate these multigenerational trends because they serve such diverse populations. Designing them successfully is a growing challenge for architects and facility owners.

(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.

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.)

Excellent background on and description of natural ventilation, the physics behind it, and how natural ventilation benefits building occupants and owners as a healthy and sustainable alternative to powered ventilation. A variety of products are available for architects that permit and enhance the natural ventilation of buildings and those products will be discussed according to their function and with other considerations in mind. How these products interact with the design aspects of natural ventilation and specification considerations are also discussed.

This course provides an overview for what is required to create a sanitary water environment for a building. Considerations for specific building spaces - both interior and exterior - are explored, including product selection and placement. Topics include preventing contamination of the public potable water supply due to backflow or backsiphonage; types of available drainage systems that help to ensure the elimination of standing water hazards; and the damage and hazards that can be created by unsanitary water conditions. (Course includes a downloadable PDF study guide.)

This course identifies and describes three available roof drain systems including siphonic drain systems. Siphonic theory is explored to better illustrate how siphonic roof drains uniquely operate and the many benefits siphonic drainage systems provide, including those directly related to sustainability. Participants also learn how to specify a siphonic roof drain system and are introduced to important rules for successful siphonic drain system design. (Course includes a downloadable PDF study guide.)