Sustainable Design Courses

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 417 results.

FIRST [1-25] [26-50] [51-75] [76-100] [101-125] NEXT LAST

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Concrete is one of the most widely used building materials throughout the world, and as such, it is in everyone’s best interest to consider more sustainable options. This course provides an overview of the properties of slag cement. Discussion topics include benefits, effects on plastics and hardened concrete, environmental profile including life cycle analysis (LCA) and environmental product declarations (EPDs), and various slag cement applications.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    As environmental concerns grow, repurposing materials and finding new ways to showcase their unique qualities in design have become increasingly important. This course examines terrazzo’s history, system types, flooring assemblies, and restoration and refinishing options. Discover its enduring versatility and charm through renovation projects featuring newly installed and renewed vintage floors, where its durability, material attributes, and design potential can help meet credit requirements in the LEED ® v5 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL Building StandardTM version 2.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Lighting is one of the most influential elements of the indoor environment, with far-reaching effects on the human body, mind, and spirit. For architects, designing spaces prioritizing natural light is critical to fostering comfort, productivity, and well-being. This course explores the health and wellness benefits of tubular daylighting systems and their role in creating healthier, more sustainable indoor environments. Also noted are applicable credits in the LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and features in the WELL Building Standard™ version 2. The course concludes with a review of several case studies.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Electric heating systems have been in use for over a century, and in that period, they have significantly advanced in terms of their efficiency, cost effectiveness, safety, versatility, and appearance. Recently, electricity production itself has become more and more environmentally friendly and economically viable. This course explores how the wide range of contemporary electric heating options can efficiently and economically address virtually every heating need in every building type and thus capitalize on the steadily increasing benefits of electricity to create the most environmentally responsible and economically viable heating solutions.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Homeowners are looking for alternatives to traditional cladding materials that are affordable and long lasting and require little or no upkeep. Advances in technology and manufacturing techniques mean cellular PVC cladding products can meet all these requirements without sacrificing aesthetics. This course reviews the benefits of cellular PVC as a cladding material and discusses how cellular PVC rebutted and rejointed (R&R) prefinished shingles can provide the look and feel of wood shingles with an extended level of durability and low maintenance.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Universal design is not a new concept; however, it is time for a paradigm shift. Considering ADA design, universal design, and living in place, should designers now be offering universal design solutions to all clients, regardless of age or ability? This course reviews both ADA and universal design guidelines and discusses compelling reasons for recommending universal design in your kitchen and bathroom projects. Various kitchen and bathroom applications are discussed in detail.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Movable pool and spa floor technology enables an entirely flexible, multifunctional living and recreational space to complement any architectural vision. Presented here are types of movable pool floors, pool floor technology, options and amenities, and safety and sustainability performance considerations.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Recycled rubber flooring is an environmentally responsible material that outlasts many types of traditional commercial flooring products when exposed to normal foot traffic stress. Interior and exterior recycled rubber surfacing products are explored in terms of their sustainable design benefits and applications. The program includes discussions on rubber manufacturing, postconsumer tires, and green building certification systems.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    As natural gas lines are being phased out for new development and for those who want to move away from burning fossil fuels, it’s becoming critical for homeowners, builders, specifiers, and architects to understand the flexible application of electric heating solutions. Electric heat is a convenient way to reduce energy costs and provide reliable heating options for commercial and residential heating systems that increase occupant safety, comfort, and well-being. This course examines multiple electric heating options to meet consumer needs and provides solutions to common heating concerns.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    There are a multitude of building envelope products used and a variety of methods taken for achieving energy and building code requirements. Understanding the different roles a product plays in the envelope simplifies its design. In this course, we take a look at the code requirements for buildings classified as IBC Types I—IV, paths to achieving compliance, and the number of roles polyisocyanurate insulation plays in meeting these requirements.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Light-manipulating glass products transport, redirect, refract, and reflect light to create architectural spaces that engage occupants with the unexpected interplay of light and shadow. This course explores these durable, functional products and their many options for customization. Also reviewed is how glass panels may apply to several credits and features in the LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In today’s digitally interconnected world, data centers play an essential role in society and the global economy. Data centers have unique design needs to ensure security, reliability, efficiency, scalability, and sustainability. This course focuses on the exterior data center design requirements and examines how fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) products contribute to more efficient facility construction, seamless maintenance, and long-term operational savings.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Modular wall systems provide a versatile and customizable approach to biophilic design, seamlessly integrating with existing infrastructure and adapting to evolving requirements. This course delves into their benefits, features, specification and installation considerations, and applications encompassing various environments, from urban streetscapes and public parks to commercial spaces, rooftops, and residential areas.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    For many years, preformed metal wall panels have been a top choice for building owners and architects, offering an excellent blend of cost effectiveness, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, particularly in rainscreen and screen walls. This course examines the different materials, profiles, and finish options for these panels and dives into applications and best practices for design and installation.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Quartz surfacing is a man-made material consisting of up to 93% natural quartz crystal. In this course, you will discover the other components behind the beauty, durability, and flexibility of this surfacing material. You will see the composition, production, and quality assurance processes that go into making the material and the resultant attributes and capabilities, as well as the installation basics of quartz surfacing materials.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Plongez à l'intersection de l'excellence du design et de la responsabilité environnementale avec ce cours complet sur les panneaux décoratifs TFL. Explorez la valeur intrinsèque de la durabilité dans le monde du design, démêlez les complexités du cycle du carbone et découvrez comment les forêts et le bois jouent un rôle essentiel dans la séquestration du carbone. Découvrez les applications polyvalentes et les attributs positifs pour le climat des panneaux TFL, ce qui vous permettra de faire des choix éclairés et respectueux de l'environnement dans le cadre de vos projets de conception. Améliorez votre compréhension d'une conception, d'une durabilité et d'une viabilité exceptionnelles, et contribuez à un avenir plus vert et plus résilient.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Now more than ever, the environmental impacts of products used in construction are a worldwide concern and one that the architecture and design (A&D) community is being asked to address in their work. Environmental product declarations (EPDs) are powerful tools when choosing materials for commercial projects. This course discusses how, where, and why to use EPDs to inform sustainable product selection and specification decisions and how EPDs are incorporated into key green building rating systems and codes, including LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction (BD+C) and Interior Design and Construction (ID+C), Green Globes® for New Construction (NC), and the International Green Construction Code® (IgCC®).

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In applications where wood may be exposed to moisture, insects, or fungal organisms, preservative-treated wood can ensure a project’s durability. This course reviews: the manufacturing process for pressure-treated wood; types of preservative treatments and the required levels of retention as dictated by the end-use application, desired service life, and exposure conditions; American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) Use Category standards; current issues concerning preserved wood in residential and commercial construction; and Best Management Practices (BMPs) for aquatic uses.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Designers, building users, and managers are increasingly focused on building and occupant health as well as energy conservation. This course explores how mixed-mode (hybrid) ventilation systems address all these issues by improving the ratio of fresh air introduced into buildings while reducing energy needs and costs. It describes the benefits, elements, and workings of these systems and provides design guidance and illustrative case studies.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Water is a valuable resource, yet many states suffer water shortages due to preventable issues, such as overuse and leaks. This course presents the increased need for water conservation and provides an overview of the EPA’s WaterSense® program. Examined are how plumbing fixtures can meet the requirements of green building codes, standards, and rating systems, including LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction (BD+C). Healthcare, institutional, and residential case studies demonstrate the benefits of water-efficient plumbing fixtures.

  • ( ~ 30 minutes ) 

    As cities continue to grow, incorporating synthetic surfacing into rooftop spaces offers a safe, practical, and innovative solution to creating more livable, attractive, and resilient urban environments. The course explores synthetic rooftop surfacing, including its applications; environmental, health, and safety benefits; and product, manufacturer, and installer certifications. Also discussed is how synthetic turf can contribute to achieving certification in LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction, Sustainable SITES Initiative® v2, and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    With the ever-increasing focus on the sustainable built environment, building owners, architects, engineers, and contractors are incorporating structural steel into their designs. Presented here is a comprehensive view of the cradle-to-cradle structural steel supply chain from a sustainability perspective. Also discussed are steel production and design, steel’s potential contribution to LEED v4 credits, thermal capacity, and the environmental and life cycle benefits of prefabricated fireproof steel columns.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Our built environment must be optimized to create comfortable and healthier spaces. Shading systems can be used to enhance our spaces by providing optimal daylight and comfort to create an ideal indoor environment. This course reviews the performance, aesthetics, and material health of various shadecloth compositions and how each factor contributes to the shadecloth selection process.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course examines how inclusive outdoor environments and well-designed site furnishings can promote health, safety, and well-being for all individuals. While everyone can benefit from being outdoors, many people experience exclusion due to design barriers in public spaces. Learners will explore strategies and furniture specifications, including layout and materials, that support accessible and inclusive design and contribute to LEED® v5 Building Design and Construction (BD+C), WELL Building Standard™ v2, and SITES® v2 goals. Case studies highlight real-world applications in communities, school campuses, and public spaces. 

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    When building professionals gather, as they often do these days, to confer under the banner of ESG, the E tends to get the lion's share of the airtime. After all, there is a direct and readily understandable connection between buildings and environmental sustainability, and many of us have devoted significant time and effort to educating ourselves in best practices around this important facet of professional practice. But what about the S? How do those of us engaged in the business of the built environment drive bona fide social impact through the work we do? In fact, there are numerous paths available, and arguably, real social equity is reliant on a foundation of safe and stable housing as much as any other factor. During this webinar, we will explore needs and solutions in the realm of housing affordability and access while specifically touching on both our existing housing stock and impact-focused strategies for bringing new housing online.

Displaying 1 - 25 of 417 results.

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