Taking a look at the daylighting design process, Keith Yancey with Lam Partners in Cambridge, Mass., pointed out, “It’s just that: a process; one that’s sometimes not quite as linear as others, but a process, none the less.”

Yancey’s presentation covered some of the daylighting tools ad techniques commonly used during the design process.

“It wasn’t that long ago that sunlight and daylight were the primary sources of light in architecture,” Yancey said. “[Light] was carefully introduced into the design.” He added that the way the light was introduced provided more than just useful light for performing tasks; it also made for a comfortable place to be.

“Why are we providing light in the first place?” he asked. “The buildings don’t need it. We need it as human beings.”

Yancey explained that what differentiates daylight architecture from just another building with windows is that the daylight building is designed to manipulate space, reduce energy consumption, enhance visual and spatial environment and provide useful, comfortable illumination.

In addition, he also talked about some of the tools and technologies available that can be used in the daylighting design process. For example, sun-path diagrams can be used to allow a client to see where the sun will be in the building over the course of a year. Other programs can allow the designer to show a client whether a light shelf or overhang would be a cost-effective selection.

Models and animation have also seen advancements.

“These can show the client the dynamic qualities of the space … as well as other issues, such as shading,” said Yancey. “Physical models are helpful for qualitative decisions.”

He added, “[The design] is not only about daylighting and how it comes in, but also how you control it,” said Yancey.

In addition to a focus on the daylighting design process, another presentation covered net zero requirements and daylighting/efficient lighting design. James Benya with Benya Lighting Design told his audience that the real issue is no longer designing for sustainability; it’s now about net zero designs.

“We need to change our sources of energy,” Benya said. With daylighting, “many climate change issues could be stabilized, if not improved.”

He continued, “Those involved with lighting and daylighting realize there’s been a promise of lighting: the sun is there all day and it’s free; we just have to learn to use it properly.”

When designing a net zero building, one thing to take into consideration is that the amount of electric light used must be reduced. Realizing how, where and how much is being used is also important.

To create these structures, he advised becoming a daylight designer.

“Learn to make it part of the design process. Learn to design for dynamic light levels because light levels vary.”

Benya explained there are a number of ways to bring daylight into the structure. These can include skylights, linear skylights, clerestories, tubular daylighting devices and sidelites.

Likewise, he pointed out that building integrated photovoltaics are being used more and more.

Benya added, “We can reduce indoor lighting significantly. If you want to get to zero net one of the first things you need to do is stop turning the lights on during the day.”

And it terms of LEED, he said, “daylighting is probably one of the most powerful tools we can use.”

The forum began with GANA’s presentation on coated glass, which was presented by Bill Zientarski on behalf of GANA. He explained that coatings help act as optical filters, can change the characteristics of glass and can block certain wavelengths, modify aesthetics and thermal performance.

“Different coating types include reflective solar, solar control low-E and a hybrid of reflective solar and solar control,” said Zientarski.

The presentation also covered ways that coatings can be applied, which include the pyrolytic process (in which the coating is fired onto the glass during the manufacturing process) as well as sputter coating, which is an off-line process.

Tom Minnon with YKK AP gave the presentation “Sustainable Glazing and the LEED® Green Building Rating System.”

The presentation covered the different LEED rating system categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, innovation in design and regional priority.

There are a number of ways, Minnon explained, that glass and glazing systems can help a project earn LEED points. Sunshades, for example, might help a project earn points in the on-site renewable energy category. Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) also fall within this category. Minnon used his own home as an example, having just added BIPV panels last year.

“The meter on my house is running backwards, right now,” said Minnon of the installation.

The final presentation was “How Structural Silicone Spacers Contribute to Sustainable Window Design,” given by Joe Erb of Edgetech I.G.

“The glass is not the only component when it comes to net zero,” said Erb. “Any one component can bring down the sustainability of the design.”

So where does the spacer system fit into all of this? One area is the [LEED] indoor atmosphere category. Erb explained that the spacer can help improve overall thermal efficiencies.

Over the years the concept of warm-edge technology has evolved greatly, he noted, and while flexible spacers are now available, Erb said they still must maintain the same durability as aluminum spacers. In fact, he said that as of July 1, 2010, ENERGY STAR® windows will be required to have passed a durability test.

Architects attending the forum agreed that the event was a worthwhile experience.

“I definitely learned quite a bit about coatings for glass and I loved the second session, particularly when our speaker showed us slides of his own home with solar panels on them,” says Kaya Doyle, AIA, Wellness Advocacy in the Built Environment in Lake Zurich, Ill. “The venue was easy to find and very accommodating. [The experience] was totally worth my time.”

Don’t miss the March-April issue of the Architects’ Guide to Glass & Metal, which will include a more detailed look at the recent Architects’ Educational Forum.

Organized by the Architects’ Guide to Glass & Metal magazine, the following sessions are scheduled to be presented during this year’s event:

Coated Glass – Presented by the Glass Association of North America

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

This course includes a study of the manufacturing process for coatings on glass, the performance values and a case study on cost savings.

Learning Objectives: Participants will learn why glass is coated; glass surface terminology; coatings for optical and solar performance; understand solar and thermal performance; common terminology; cost savings using coated glass; surface modifying coatings; coating processes; sputtering; pyrolytic; and a review other uses of coated glass.

Sustainable Glazing Systems and the LEED® Green Building Rating System – Presented by YKK AP

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

This seminar will review the environmental benefits of curtainwall and storefront design and how proper selection and applications of these systems can enhance green building performance. Using the 2009 LEED Green Building Rating System Version 3.0 as a template, the presentation will explain how fenestration design can contribute to enhanced energy performance, on-site renewable energy, recycled content, thermal comfort, daylighting and views to the outdoors.

Learning Objectives: Select the proper glazing system based on performance criteria. Integrate sunshades and light shelves into fenestration designs. Employ proper daylighting and views to the outdoors strategies. Calculate recycled content of curtainwall and storefront.

How Structural Silicone Spacers Contribute to Sustainable Window Design – Presented by Edgetech I.G.

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The program focuses on utilizing the latest silicone technologies for commercial facades. The primary focus is on achieving optimal/green building design though improving energy efficiency, long term durability and waste reduction.

Learning Objectives: This program will shed light on insulating glass history with a focus on silicone foam spacers and their significance to energy efficiency and sustainability design in glazing. At the end of the program participants will be able to identify at least three characteristics of flexible foam spacers that promote durable/ sustainable glazing design.

In addition to the presentations, registered architects also receive free admission into the Glass Expo Midwest tradeshow, as well as other networking opportunities including coffee breaks and lunch.

CLICK HERE for additional event information.

CLICK HERE to register.

Organized by the Architects’ Guide to Glass & Metal magazine, the following sessions are scheduled to be presented during this year’s event:

Coated Glass – Presented by the Glass Association of North America

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

This course includes a study of the manufacturing process for coatings on glass, the performance values and a case study on cost savings.

Learning Objectives: Participants will learn why glass is coated; glass surface terminology; coatings for optical and solar performance; understand solar and thermal performance; common terminology; cost savings using coated glass; surface modifying coatings; coating processes; sputtering; pyrolytic; and a review other uses of coated glass.

Sustainable Glazing Systems and the LEED® Green Building Rating System – Presented by YKK AP

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

This seminar will review the environmental benefits of curtainwall and storefront design and how proper selection and applications of these systems can enhance green building performance. Using the 2009 LEED Green Building Rating System Version 3.0 as a template, the presentation will explain how fenestration design can contribute to enhanced energy performance, on-site renewable energy, recycled content, thermal comfort, daylighting and views to the outdoors.

Learning Objectives: Select the proper glazing system based on performance criteria. Integrate sunshades and light shelves into fenestration designs. Employ proper daylighting and views to the outdoors strategies. Calculate recycled content of curtainwall and storefront.

How Structural Silicone Spacers Contribute to Sustainable Window Design – Presented by Edgetech I.G.

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The program focuses on utilizing the latest silicone technologies for commercial facades. The primary focus is on achieving optimal/green building design though improving energy efficiency, long term durability and waste reduction.

Learning Objectives: This program will shed light on insulating glass history with a focus on silicone foam spacers and their significance to energy efficiency and sustainability design in glazing. At the end of the program participants will be able to identify at least three characteristics of flexible foam spacers that promote durable/ sustainable glazing design.

In addition to the presentations, registered architects also receive free admission into the Glass Expo Midwest tradeshow, as well as other networking opportunities including coffee breaks and lunch.

CLICK HERE for further information about the event.

CLICK HERE to register.

“We recognize that it’s been a tough year for many people economically, and that’s why we’re partnering with The Salvation Army and asking attendees to donate non-perishable food items to be collected at each event,” says Pella Corporation trade segment manager Jarred Roy. “We’re expecting an ‘army’ of attendees and we hope that together we can help secure plenty of food to be donated to local food banks through The Salvation Army to help feed the respective area’s hungry.”

Events will be held every Tuesday and Thursday, February 2through May 13, from 3 to 8 p.m. A number of other companies including Kohler®, James Hardie®, Schluter Systems®, AZEK®, DuPont® and Contractors.com will join Pella® Windows and Doors in showcasing products, services and the latest building practices.

Training and educational credits will be offered in partnership with the National Association of The Remodeling Industry (NARI®), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and American Institute of Architects (AIA). Sessions presented by Pella and industry partners will cover proper window installation, marketing ideas, construction tips, trends, and “green” building.

Events will be held in the following locations:

Feb. 2 — Denver, Coors Field

Feb. 4 — Salt Lake City, Energy Solutions Arena

Feb. 9 — San Diego, Qualcomm Stadium

Feb. 11 — Phoenix, Chase Field

Feb. 16 — Los Angeles, Dodger Stadium

Feb. 18 — San Francisco, AT&T Park

Feb. 23 — Nashville, Tenn., LP Field

Feb. 25 — Green Bay, Wis., Lambeau Field

March 2 — Des Moines, Iowa, Iowa Events Center

March 4 — Atlanta, Turner Field

March 9 — Charlotte, N.C., Bank of America Stadium

March 11 — West Caldwell, N.J., Atlantic Health Jets Training Center

March 16 — Richmond, Va., Richmond Int’l Raceway

March 18 — Chicago, Soldier Field

March 23 — New York City, Citi Field

March 25 — Boston, Gillette Stadium

March 30 — Philadelphia, Citizens Bank Park

April 1 — Kansas City, Mo., Kauffman Stadium

April 6 — Pittsburgh, PNC Park

April 8 — Grand Rapids, Mich., Van Andel Arena

April 13 — Milwaukee, Miller Park

April 15 — Minneapolis, Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome

April 20 — Columbus, Ohio, Schottenstein Center

April 22 — St. Louis, Busch Stadium

April 27 — Cincinnati, Ohio, Great American Ball Park

April 29 — Cleveland, Ohio, Cleveland Browns Stadium

May 4 — Toronto, Ontario (Canada), Rogers Centre

May 6 — Detroit, Ford Field

May 11 — Seattle, Safeco Field

May 13 — Portland, Ore., Oregon Convention Center

CLICK HERE to pre-register online.

All of the sessions are designed to offer attendees insights into the performance of glass and glazing in the outdoor environment and the appropriate selection, specification, use and maintenance of glass materials for existing and new buildings and artistic works.

Topics to be discussed include: the basic material properties of glass; the role of thermal, mechanical, structural and chemical properties on performance and durability; the effects of environmental conditions; how these material characteristics and interactions need to be considered in specifying glass for new designs and for restoration/preservation projects; new developments in manufacturing and fabrication operations and in construction techniques; strategies for determining and evaluating deterioration and procedures for replicating historic appearance; and viable approaches to preservation/maintenance planning, facilities management, and repair/replacement programs, for both old and new structures.

Among the scheduled conference speakers are James Carpenter of James Carpenter Design Associates Inc. presenting on “The Structure of Transparency: Light in the Public Realm;” David A. Wennekamp, project executive for Ipswich Bay Glass Co. offering an “Installer’s Viewpoint;” Christopher Barry of Pilkington speaking on “Manufacturing Developments and Fabrication Techniques/Limitations;” Viracon’s Don McCann’s presentation on “Coatings on Glass and Fritting;” and a talk on “Energy and Sustainability Aspects of Glass/Glazing: Realistic Expectations” from Stephen Selkowitz of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the program.

The next webinar will be given by Devin Bowman, national sales manager for Technical Glass Products (TGP), a Snoqualmie, Wash.-based supplier of fire-rated glass and framing systems, along with architectural glazing products. In a presentation titled Understanding Fire-Rated Glass, Labeling Requirements, and Building Code Allowances, Bowman will discuss fire-rated glazing materials, their distinguishing characteristics and their role in fire protection.

“Devin’s presentation will give our attendees a much better handle on fire-rated glazing and its growing value in the marketplace,” says Brian Pitman, director of marketing and communications for the organization. “We look forward to kicking off our 2010 webinar series with this excellent presentation.”

Additionally, visitors to the PGC International website may now purchase videos of previous webinars for download, including any handouts offered from the presentation. The first presentation for purchase, Mitigating the Threats to Electronic Assets with Glazing by Ron Waranowski, is available on the website for $4.95, and visitors will be able to download the presentation immediately after paying by credit card.

“We had several visitors to the website ask for this feature,” says Pitman. “From now on, anyone who misses a presentation will be able to download it for viewing on their computer or portable media device inexpensively.”

Bowman’s presentation begins at noon EST, January 29.

CLICK HERE to learn more and register for this free presentation.

The show offers attendees several types of career development activities, including opportunities to prepare for or take a LEED professional exam, and to attend educational sessions and events to earn credits toward maintaining LEED credentials and other industry certifications.

“Green building professionals go to Greenbuild every year to expand their knowledge, connect with their peers and find the resources they need to grow their business or practice,” says Peter Templeton, president, GBCI. “The unmatched access to continuing education opportunities makes attending this year’s conference more valuable than ever to LEED Professionals.”

The LEED Green Associate and LEED AP specialty exams will be offered locally during the show to eligible candidates. Testing is available for the following LEED AP specialty credentials: Building Design + Construction (BD+C), Interior Design + Construction (ID+C), Operations + Maintenance (O+M), and Homes. If you have met eligibility requirements and your application has been processed you will be able to schedule your LEED professional exam in Phoenix before, during, or after the conference.

CLICK HERE to find testing times and locations online.

In addition, all Greenbuild 2009 education sessions, workshops and tours offered throughout the show will satisfy GBCI’s Credentialing Maintenance Program (CMP) requirements for LEED APs and LEED Green Associates.

The presentation was written by Lawrence D. Carbary and Valerie Hayez of Dow Corning Corporation. Carbary presented the webinar to more than 150 live attendees last week.

“The first GANA webinar was a huge success,” said Brian Pitman, director of marketing and communications for GANA. “This high-caliber presentation drew many more attendees than we were expecting, and the feedback was through the roof. Not only are we happy to offer the webinar rebroadcast to the industry so that even more can gain the benefits from it, but we look forward to offering several more live webinars in the next few months.”

CLICK HERE to view the webinar.

“BIM can be overcomplicated and at the end of the day it’s about selling and getting specified,” said Bandi.

He also mentioned that the attributes of the program go far beyond its 3D capabilities. “Yes, it’s in 3D but it’s all about the data.”

He also said manufacturers should want architects to have their data and compare it to that of other manufacturers. “Your unique characteristics will rise to the top,” he said.
Bandi also mentioned a fact that some in the industry may find surprising-that according to his company’s software sales, BIM has been accepted faster by contractors than architects. “They see the value in it,” said Bandi. He also mentioned that sustainability is a key driver for those using BIM.

Bandi said he would like to work with the AAMA committee on future BIM efforts.
“As far as wall systems your group is the first to have stepped up on a committee level,” he said. “You tell us what makes sense for your products and we’ll adopt it.”