Tubelite Inc. has named Steve Mikkelson to the newly created position of quality manager. He works closely with Tubelite’s production and executive management teams.

“Tubelite strives to provide the highest level of quality in our storefront, entrance, curtainwall and daylight control systems,” says Mikkelson.

Most recently, Mikkelson was the supplier development manager with GHSP in Grand Haven, Mich., a leading global supplier of mechanical and mechatronic control systems. Prior to this, he worked as a program manager with GKN Sinter Metals, the world’s leading supplier of metal powder precision components. His previous employment includes positions at automotive companies supporting their quality initiatives and practices.

Mikkelson is a member of the American Society for Quality and has earned certification as a quality engineer, a quality manager and a quality auditor. His education includes a master’s degree in career and technical education and a bachelor’s degree in manufacturing technology from Western Michigan University. Currently, Mikkelson is pursuing his master’s certificate in Six Sigma.

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* Kolbe will be exhibiting in booth #2049 at the AIA National Exposition, May 17-19, in Washington, D.C. *

Kolbe recently added Ultra Series Folding Doors to its growing collection of more than 2,000 window and door Google™ SketchUp models.

Kolbe’s Folding Doors can accommodate up to eight panels on each side, which fold back against each other to create expansive openings that span up to 45 feet. The doors are offered in numerous panel configurations, a broad palette of finishes and interior wood species, and other accessories to coordinate with nearly any décor.

“The Folding Door SketchUp model helps design professionals explore the possibilities of bringing the surrounding environment into the home. These doors make an ordinary room into an extraordinary space capturing the views, natural light, fresh air and outdoor experience,” says Laura Smith, Kolbe’s architectural CAD coordinator.

Assisting with the design exploration, the SketchUp model’s Component Options dialog box allows users to automatically reconfigure the dynamic Folding Door component, without needing to manually resize each door. “They can customize the doors’ width, height, and the number of panels, as well as the exterior and interior materials, including more than 30 exterior color options,” explains Smith.

The new models for Ultra Series Folding Doors are located in:
* Kolbe’s website
* Google 3-D Warehouse
* RevitCity
* Autodesk Seek

In addition to BIM tools, visitors to Kolbe’s online Architect Library can access Revit® 3-D models and 2-D drawings; warranties, installation and maintenance information; and online videos to demonstrate Ultra Folding Doors’ product operation and performance testing. Kolbe’s website also contains air, water, structural and thermal reports, as well as a database for thousands of Kolbe’s ENERGY STAR® qualified products.

Further supporting energy and environmental goals, Kolbe’s Ultra Series products have exteriors clad in low-maintenance extruded aluminum containing recycled content. The outer metal surfaces may be finished in durable coatings using a broad palette of colors.

For the doors’ interior, a range of sustainably harvested wood species can be selected, such as those certified by the Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC® license code FSC-C019541). Kolbe products’ environmental attributes also support projects pursuing green goals including U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® Rating System™, Green Globes™ and ENERGY STAR.

Learn more about Kolbe’s Folding Door products and models at www.kolbe-kolbe.com.

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Wausau Window and Wall Systems will be exhibiting in booth #313 at the AIA National Exposition, May 17-19, in Washington, D.C.

For nearly a century, the Delaware and Hudson (D&H) railroad company headquarters has anchored State Street and Broadway in Albany, N.Y. The large, historic structure now serves as the Administrative Building for the State University of New York (SUNY). Updating the building’s performance and preserving its architectural heritage, Wausau Window and Wall Systems provided more than 1,000 windows for the property’s recent renovation.

Originally designed by Albany architect Marcus T. Reynolds in a Flemish Gothic architectural style, the initial construction was completed in 1915. Upon completion, an expansion immediately began at the southern end of the building for the Albany Evening Journal‘s headquarters. The entire building, completed in 1918, stretched 660 feet long.

The building sat vacant for many years. In 1972, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Acting in part to preserve this landmark, SUNY purchased the building and the neighboring Federal Building as the University’s first permanent home. SUNY moved into its offices in 1978.

Including the Federal Building, the entire 260,000-square-foot property is four stories high with a 13-story central tower. Extending the tower’s height, an 8-foot-tall copper weathervane bearing a replica of Henry Hudson’s “Half Moon” ship caps the building.

In addition to being listed in the National Register, it also is part of the Downtown Albany Historic District. The building, often still called “D&H” for its railroad heritage, is an icon in both place and time. “The challenge with the D&H building was to replace the historically significant windows and not change the appearance of the building architecture,” says John Kimball, president of Kimball Architectural Sales.

He continues, “The project also required high-performance glass with superior acoustics, as the Interstate 787 in downtown Albany runs right past the back elevation of the building. It is considered one of Albany’s finest buildings.” A lifelong resident of upstate New York, Kimball serves as Wausau’s local manufacturer’s representative. He has been involved with dozens of university projects in the area including many for SUNY.

Kimball, Wausau and the glazing contractors worked closely with University and architecture+ to accomplish the project’s goal: to replace 1,122 window units. The project was divided into two phases. Ajay Glass began the first phase in the summer of 2009. The team worked through autumn renovating the window systems on the east and south elevations.

The following autumn in 2010, TGR Enterprises began the second phase, removing and installing the windows on the west and north elevations. The building’s entire window renovation was completed in the summer of 2011.

Mimicking the look of historical windows, Wausau provided “simulated double-hung” windows for the SUNY Administrative building renovation. Available as project-in hopper vents, project-out awning vents and casements, the newest 4250i and 4250i-XLT INvent(TM) Series options replicate existing double-hung sash with offset glass planes.

The 4250i INvent Series windows’ aluminum frame is 4.5-inch with perimeter frames matching sightlines between upper and lower lites, or allowing for maximum daylight opening dimensions when replicating existing single-hung sash. To enhance the historic style, optional accessories include muntin grids, panning and mullions.

“Wausau’s INvent Series simulated double-hung projected windows profile the look of traditional hung units, while offering higher performance, ease of operation, and a range of glass options to optimize energy efficiency,” explains Wausau’s education market manager, Steve Gille. He adds, “Extended thermal barrier depth on the -XLT options provide better condensation resistance, and accommodate triple insulating glass for lower U-Factors. Projected windows overcome inherent issues with counter-balancing added weight of insulating glass in double-hung sashes.”

Addressing both thermal and acoustical performance requirements, Wausau can factory-glaze INvent Series windows, which use a polyamide thermal barrier and low-e, insulated, laminated glass. “On the D&H Building, STC 40 glass by Viracon was required on the elevation facing Interstate 787,” notes Bruce Schulz, team leader for Advantage by Wausau.

The Advantage by Wausau(R) standard product offering is ideally suited for historic properties and educational facility renovations. These products are competitively priced, available on an accelerated delivery schedule, and backed with an industry-leading warranty of up to 10 years. For the SUNY Administrative Building, the simulated double-hung windows, the 3250-Z zero sightline windows and the stock length SuperWall(TM) curtainwall were all provided through Advantage by Wausau.

The SuperWall system was installed on the first floor at the rear of the building and in some of the top floor offices. The simulated double-hung, 3250-Z and 2250 Series windows were installed as vents in the curtainwall. The INvent Series windows are AAMA AW-100 rated, meeting the industry’s most stringent testing for air infiltration, water and condensation resistance, structural integrity and thermal performance.

“Our window products are engineered for durability. They’re AAMA-rated, NFRC-labeled, and tested to withstand the high-use, low-maintenance demands of educational facilities, as well as the demanding climate conditions of upstate New York,” says Gille.

Accentuating the products’ longevity and performance, the windows and curtainwall’s aluminum framing members and the mullion covers on the D&H Building were finished by Linetec in “Albany Brown.” Linetec’s in-house blending laboratory created this custom color using a two-coat 70% fluropolymer paint for a consistent, long-lasting finish. Some of the units were specified in a dual finish with an Albany Brown exterior and a 50% PVDF “Bone White” on the interior.

“The building looks great — inside and out. The windows provide a more comfortable, quieter work environment,” adds Kimball. “It’s a pleasure to see this significant architectural and historical building continue to serve the community.”

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The State University of New York, D&H Administrative Building, State University Plaza, 353 Broadway, Albany, N.Y.  12246
* Owner: The State University of New York; Albany, N.Y.
* Architect – original, new construction: Marcus T. Reynolds
* Architect – façade renovation: architecture+; Troy, N.Y.
* Glazing contractor – Phase 1: Ajay Glass Company; Canadaigua, N.Y.
* Glazing contractor – Phase 2: TGR Enterprises; Buffalo, N.Y.
* Glazing systems – manufacturer: Wausau Window and Wall Systems; Wausau, Wis.
* Glazing systems – manufacturer’s representative: Kimball Architectural Sales, N.Y.
* Glazing systems – glass fabricator: Viracon, Inc.; Owatonna, Minn.
* Glazing systems – finisher: Linetec; Wausau, Wis.

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Tubelite Inc. will be exhibiting in booth #313 at the AIA National Exposition, May 17-19, in Washington, D.C.

Expanding on its selection of products with high thermal performance and condensation resistance, Tubelite Inc. introduces 400 Series Curtainwall with Fiberglass Pressure Plate.

“The fiberglass pressure plates are applied from the exterior making them ideal for the lower levels of high-rise buildings and buildings with fewer than six stories. The high thermal performance makes them well-suited for cold climates and high-humidity environments,” says Tubelite’s marketing manager, Mary Olivier.

Minimizing the need for on-site cutting and fabricating, screw holes and weeps are machined at the factory into the off-white, pultruded fiberglass material.

Tubelite’s 400 Series Curtainwall with Fiberglass Pressure Plate has a 2.5-inch sightline and the strength of variable-depth back-members from 4 to 7 inches. Snap-on covers, available in a wide range of colors, allow for different finishes on interior and exterior exposed surfaces.

The curtainwall system’s metal back members and snap-on covers can be extruded by Tubelite using EcoLuminum™, a high recycled-content aluminum billet composition with eco-friendly, durable finishes. These attributes may contribute to obtaining additional credits as outlined in the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) LEED® Green Rating System™.

Tubelite can provide products that are manufactured using EcoLuminum, including: energy-efficient Therml=Block™ entrances; standard doors, windows, storefront and curtainwall; and Max/Block™ sunshade and aLuminate™ light shelf daylight control systems.

To learn more about Tubelite’s curtainwall systems and other products, please visit www.tubeliteinc.com.

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Relying on design and construction partners with innovative ideas and products, Bradley Central High School in Cleveland, Tenn., opened a new Fine Arts Center within just 12 months. Chicago Metallic Corporation helped the team meet the project’s aesthetic and acoustic goals, while staying on schedule and budget. The creative, collaborative approach to a complex ceiling project earned the project a 2011 Construction Excellence Gold Award from the Ceilings & Interior Systems Construction Association (CISCA).

As a National School of Excellence, Bradley Central High School’s Fine Arts Center was held to the highest standards. Designed by KBJM Architects, TRI-CON was the general contractor for the Tennessee-based team. As the installing contractor, Wallace Tile worked closely with Chicago Metallic, to meet the project’s fast-paced deadline and design goals.

“Our goal was to create a little gem for the high school campus. We wanted this to be a showpiece, with lots of natural light and upgraded finishes,” notes Angie Lyon, project architect with KBJM Architects. “I didn’t want a traditional flat ceiling. My vision was for a feeling of movement, something that would draw the eye. CurvGrid is fluid and dynamic.”

Chicago Metallic’s CurvGrid™ Two-Directional Aluminum Suspension System was provided with flexible metal panels finished in “Morning Dew,” a soft, metallic gold color, which complements the Fine Arts Center’s interior palette of warm golds and yellows. Helping create the Center’s floating ceiling sections housing acoustic panels, Wallace Tile installed Chicago Metallic’s 1200 Seismic Suspension System. These sections have a stepped perimeter for visual effect and Infinity™ Perimeter Trim for a crisp, clean look.

“We had a very tight frame for completing this project,” notes Cason Conn, project manager for general contractor TRI-CON. “We had to condense the schedule and that meant the auditorium seats needed to be installed prior to the ceiling system going in. As a result, scaffolding could not be erected for the ceiling installation. That presented quite a challenge for Wallace Tile.”

Wallace Tile’s vice president, Seth Bussey, worked with Chicago Metallic’s district sales manager, Carlo Grohovac, to develop an alternate installation plan. Their solution was to assemble the CurvGrid sections on the ground, connect them into pods, hoist the pods to the ceiling area using a lift, and then connect them in the air. In all, five 8×25-foot pods were assembled and installed.

“Once we got the idea of how the puzzle went together, it was very easy to install,” says Bussey. “We got faster all the time. The system is very user-friendly, and Chicago Metallic did a great job in helping us work this out.”

Grohovac elaborates, “The innovative assembly process, and CurvGrid’s combination of rigidity and light weight, made this possible. An installation like this would be virtually impossible to accomplish with any other curved ceiling systems. CurvGrid’s system incorporates a primary carrier, which is essentially a spine that runs along the back of the panel assembly. It ties the suspension components together creating a stronger system that is lifted into place and attached by suspension wires. This carrier also requires fewer wires, which enhances the floating cloud effect of the ceiling.”

Grohovac adds, “Everyone was pleased with the results. The ceiling’s beautifully curved clouds seem to float and dance in a performance of their own.”

The 25,000 square-foot Fine Arts Center houses a 600-seat auditorium with new lighting and sound systems, dressing rooms, separate band and choral rooms and classrooms, plus a lobby and gathering space. The $3.3 million project was completed within 12 months, per the school district‘s direction. In spite of the accelerated timeline, Bradley Central High School celebrated the Center’s grand opening on schedule with a baccalaureate service for the class of 2011’s graduating seniors.

In addition to receiving the school district’s applause, the project earned a Gold Award in the 2011 CISCA Construction Excellence Awards. These prestigious awards recognize CISCA members who produced the year’s finest examples of interior commercial construction. Chicago Metallic Corporation accepted the award on April 18, 2012 at the CISCA Annual Convention and INTEX Expo in Charlotte, N.C. Bradley Central High School’s Fine Arts Center was honored in the Ceilings Category for East Region.

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Bradley Central High School, Fine Arts Center, Cleveland, Tenn.
* Owner: Bradley County Schools; Cleveland, Tenn.
* Architect: KBJM Architects, Inc.; Mount Juliet, Tenn.
* General contractor: TRI-CON, Inc.; Cleveland, Tenn.
* Installing contractor: Wallace Tile, Inc.; Chattanooga, Tenn.
* Ceiling system manufacturer: Chicago Metallic® Corporation; Chicago

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Appleton Coated has become an official sponsor of Hamilton Wood Type and Printing Museum, demonstrating its commitment to the enduring power of printed communication. In celebration, Hamilton Wood Type  will create a series of specimen sheets highlighting classic typefaces, letterpress printing, and Utopia® coated papers and Curious Collection® papers.

Located in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, the Hamilton Wood Type and Printing Museum is the only museum dedicated to the preservation, study, production and printing of wood type. With 1.5 million pieces of wood type and more than 1,000 styles and sizes of patterns, Hamilton’s collection is one of the premier wood type collections in the world. In addition to wood type, the museum is home to an array of advertising cuts from the 1930s through the 1970s, and all of the equipment necessary to make wood type and print with it, as well as equipment used in the production of hot metal type, tools of the craft and rare type specimen catalogs.

“Hamilton Wood Type’s vast collection and hands-on approach make it a one-of-a-kind destination for design and print professionals, historians, and creative people of all ages,” says Ferkó X. Goldinger, advertising and promotion manager at Appleton Coated. Incorporated in 1889, Appleton Coated is only one hour away from Two Rivers.

“We’re a little older than Appleton Coated, Hamilton was formed in 1880,” adds Jim Moran, museum director. “Appleton Coated has been a strong supporter of the museum’s mission in Two Rivers and of our outreach efforts throughout North America. We feel fortunate to have this long-standing relationship and are excited by the ongoing opportunities made possible through this formalized sponsorship.”

Appleton Coated’s sponsorship supports the museum’s type specimen sheet archiving program and documentation of its type collection. As part of this partnership, Appleton Coated also will be providing Utopia coated papers and Curious Collection papers for selected projects and events.

The first in the series of the type specimen sheets will be printed on Utopia Premium 150-pound Silk Cover using Hamilton’s typeface No. 90. “This is one of Hamilton’s original fonts,” says Jim Moran. “It’s a rounded, decorative Tuscan font from the post-Civil War era. In its time, it was used for posters and announcing special occasions such as a farm auction or a dance.”

Bill Moran, Jim’s brother and artistic director for Hamilton Wood Type and Printing Museum, continues, “We took a playful approach in designing the specimen sheet. We don’t get to see a lot of these more decorative fonts, and we don’t often get to see coated paper used in letterpress. The combination produced some surprising results. The type really pops off the page.”

Goldinger also is excited by the results and notes that Utopia Premium’s “single-ply, heavyweight 150-pound cover is unique to the industry. Its triple-coated, super-smooth surface optimizes it for heavy ink coverage due to surface levelness and superior ink hold out.” Utopia Premium also is acid-free, elementary chlorine free (ECF), manufactured with electricity in the form of renewable energy, and certified by the Forest Stewardship Council(TM) (FSC®).

The 12×18-inch sheets are printed on a Vandercook Proof Press. The type specimen’s alphabetic letterforms are complemented with a small selection of ornaments including a pointing finger, known as a “manicule” by typographers, printers and other creative professionals. Typeface No. 90 is part of the Graham Lee collection donated to the museum in the last decade.

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All images ©2012 Mark Hawkins Photography markhawkinsphoto.com

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Wausau Window and Wall Systems will be exhibiting in booth #313 at the AIA National Exposition, May 17-19, in Washington, D.C.

Wausau Window and Wall Systems announces INvent Retro(TM) XLT windows, meeting the needs of existing buildings’ renovation needs or new construction where a classic appearance is desired. As the most recent addition to the INvent Series, Retro windows feature a narrow, beveled exterior face that replicate the look of classic steel and wood windows, while offering modern, high performance.

Helping meet Model Energy Codes, INvent Retro XLT windows with double insulating glass can achieve a U-Factor as low as 0.39 BTU/hr.sqft.ºF and a Condensation Resistance Factor (CRF) as high as CRF Frame 60/CRF Glass 70. Triple insulating glass further enhances energy savings and condensation resistance.

“High-performing, historic-looking window systems are essential to meeting today’s commercial building needs. The majority of our built environment already has been constructed, is aging and is in need, or will soon be in need of renovation. In addition, many newly-constructed buildings are seeking to match an existing aesthetic within their neighborhood and on their corporate, medical, governmental or educational campuses,” says Wausau’s vice president, Steve Fronek, P.E., LEED(R) Green Associate. “INvent Retro helps accomplish both design and performance criteria.”

Addressing weather-ability, durability and thermal performance, the frame uses 18mm and 24mm XLT polyamide thermal barriers. These windows also are tested to meet AAMA AW-100 Architectural Performance Class ratings, including new AAMA 910-10 lifecycle testing to 4000 operating cycles and stringent requirements for air infiltration, water resistance, life cycle testing and structural integrity.

Contributing to renovation projects’ green building goals, all of Wausau’s windows are manufactured using a high percentage of recycled content. The aluminum frame may be specified in 2-7/8, 3-7/8 and 4-7/8 inch depths with optional equal sightlines at vents and fixed lites. Low-profile fixed framing to maximize daylight openings also is available. Snap-in grid muntins or low-profile true divided lite muntins, and a broad selection of renovation panning may be added to emphasize historic styling.

Configurations for 2250i Retro XLT include fixed, in-swing and out-swing casements, top-hinged, awning and hopper vents. Project-in French casements without a center rail may be requested for terraces, Juliet balconies, and ground floor applications. Multi-lock hardware can be ordered for improved accessibility.

Operable units present a seasonal opportunity for natural ventilation. Integral between-glass blinds minimize maintenance, while managing light and glare. Combined with the advantages of natural light, outside views and thermal performance, these qualities may aid buildings seeking certification under such programs as the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Green Rating System(TM).

Wausau’s INvent Series’ quality-controlled, factory fabrication ensures the intended performance and accommodates dual-color finishes. With a palette exceeding 30,000 color choices, Wausau’s painted finishes may be requested as liquid or powder coatings with ultra-low volatile organic compounds (VOC) and VOC-free content. Durable, VOC-free anodize finishes, such as copper color that does not patina, complement the historic aesthetic.

As part of the Advantage by Wausau(R) standard product offering, these high-performance windows are pre-engineered and factory-glazed. Available on an accelerated delivery schedule, these competitively priced windows are backed with an industry-leading warranty of up to 10 years.

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The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) have jointly released the updated “2011/2012 Study of the U.S. Market for Windows, Doors and Skylights.” This report delivers accurate and timely information on window, door, skylight and curtain wall market trends and product relationships for both residential and commercial construction. Historic data for 2006 through 2011 and forecast data for 2012 through 2015 also are included in the report. Forecasts are based on projections of construction activity as of March 2011.

According to the study’s data, the demand for prime windows continues to remain slow in 2011, following housing activity in general, after falling from peak volumes in 2006. The demand for windows in new housing decreased by 2 percent in 2011 though remains slightly ahead of 2009 levels. Demand in 2012 is expected to increase further as the housing recovery begins to gain momentum. Meanwhile, remodeling and replacement windows fell by nearly 12 percent versus 2010. In total, the residential window market decreased by 9 percent.

Residential skylights experienced an increase of 2 percent from 2010 to 2011. The increase was driven heavily by the continued strength of remodeling and replacement activity, which now represents more than 80 percent of the residential skylight market. For 2012, the market is expected to grow 6 percent overall. Forecasts indicate continued growth through 2015.

Little change in the segmentation for interior door material types is expected over the next five years.  However, significant volume is expected to return to the entry and interior door market as new construction rebounds. Further, nonresidential construction has declined slightly in 2011, tempering growth in the nonresidential entry and interior door categories.

Additional and more detailed information on the residential and commercial fenestration markets is contained in the 2011/2012 AAMA/WDMA U.S. Market Studies, which includes the all of the items listed below.
* “AAMA/WDMA U.S. Industry Statistical Review and Forecast” summarizes residential, non-residential and remodeling trends from government and industry sources.
* “AAMA/WDMA U.S. Industry Channel Distribution Report” profiles the residential and non-residential market for windows and doors as it flows through the identified distribution channels.
* “AAMA/WDMA U.S. Industry Market Size Report” quantifies residential and non-residential market volumes, both historic and projected.
* “AAMA/WDMA U.S. Industry Regional Statistical Review and Forecasts” detail information for 11 individual regions.

The “2011/2012 AAMA/WDMA Study of the U.S. Market for Windows, Doors and Skylights,” as well as the other reports listed above, are available for purchase online from both AAMA and WDMA.

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Linetec will be exhibiting in booth #313 at the AIA National Exposition, May 17-19, in Washington, D.C.

Eastern Michigan University, image courtesy of Wausau Window and Wall Systems

Linetec showcases its proprietary copper anodize finishing to architectural market-leaders at the American Institute of Architects (AIA) national design exposition. This exclusive, eco-friendly finish allows aluminum to present the look of real copper without such shortcomings as salt run-off stains, galvanic corrosion and patina.

Linetec’s copper anodize has been specified on a range of architectural aluminum products including windows and curtainwall, column covers, canopies and panel systems. “Architects appreciate this unique finish for a wide range of projects: from eye-catching modern designs to historic restoration projects that will never patina,” says Linetec’s senior marketing specialist, Tammy Schroeder, LEED(R) Green Associate.

As one of the nation’s largest paint and anodize finishers, Linetec launched this technology in 2005. Unlike other finishes, anodizing highlights aluminum’s metallic appearance. Because it is an integral part of the substrate, the anodic coating results in a hard, durable substance providing excellent wear and abrasion resistance with minimal maintenance.

Linetec’s copper anodize meets or exceeds all AAMA-611 Class I specifications and weathering tests. Class I anodic coating is a high-performance finish used for exterior building structures and other products that must withstand continuous outdoor exposure. Class I anodize is resistant to salt spray and the seacoast, and it is extremely durable in high traffic areas. For nearly 10 years, Linetec’s copper anodized material has been on a test fence in south Florida with no significant change to color or gloss.

Copper anodize utilizes Linetec’s eco-friendly anodize process, which creates an aesthetically appealing, “frostier” matte finish. This helps hide small defects, such as die lines, flow lines, minor corrosion and scratches that may occur on the aluminum surface of architectural products. As slight imperfections can be common with secondary billet, the finish is well suited for products manufactured with recycled aluminum. Materials with recycled content may assist building projects seeking certification through the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Rating System(TM).

University of Arizona, image courtesy of Dri-Design

With respect to LEED criteria for indoor air quality, the anodize process contains no volatile organic compounds (no VOCs). Further supporting environmental and energy-efficient goals, Linetec’s eco-friendly anodize process also reduces landfill waste by as much as 80% when compared with traditional etch processes. The process byproducts from the bath are recyclable.

In addition, the improved anodize process has the viscosity of water and will not collect in the small recesses of aluminum extrusions or narrow aluminum tubes, enhancing the durability and lifecycle of the finished product. When it is time for the installed architectural product to be removed, anodized aluminum is 100% recyclable, lending itself to post-consumer recycled content during demolition or restoration of the building.

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The first U.S. national Sustainability in Theater conference was presented by the Minnesota Theater Alliance and the Twin Cities Sustainable Theatres Group at Brave New Workshop in Minneapolis, April 30 and May 1, 2012.

The event was Webcast live by QwikCast on April 30, and 11 breakout panels were live online for interactive participation through Google+ Hangouts on May 1. Locally, there were 90 attendees, including many individual artists, and representing 60 different organizations. Online, there were 30 attendees representing 20 different organizations, nine U.S. states, and four countries.

Keynote presentations were made by
Terry Gips, Sustainability Associates;
Stephen Rueff, The Clean Campaign; and
Mary T’Kach, Ramsey County.

International case studies were presented by Ian Garrett, the Center for Sustainable Practice in the Arts, and included presentations by
Arcola Theatre (U.K.),
Festivals Edinburgh (U.K.),
Julie’s Bicycle (U.K.),
York University (Toronto),
Fisher Dachs Associates (Wash.), and
Childsplay (Ariz.).

A complete list of the conference sessions is available at  http://minnesotatheateralliance.org/sit/schedule.php and a list of conference presenters is available at http://minnesotatheateralliance.org/sit/presenters.php.

Follow-up activities to the conference include:
* a summary to be presented by Minnesota Theater Alliance’s Leah Cooper, Bedlam Theatre’s John Bueche, and Center for Sustainable Practice in the Arts’ Ian Garrett at the national Theatre Communications Group annual conference in Boston, June 2012;
* an online discussion and document forum for knowledge sharing in the industry; and
* plans to present the conference again.

Local initiatives being discussed in Minnesota in response to the conference include:
* expanding the membership of the Twin Cities Sustainable Theatre Group;
* more frequent convening to share knowledge and plan collaborative projects;
* consideration of a shared reusable sets and props inventory, either physically or virtually; and
* collective purchasing of green materials.

As reference materials from the conference are gathered and additional plans develop, more information will be available at http://minnesotatheateralliance.org/sit/about.php.

The conference was planned and presented by a volunteer task force made up of artists and administrators from Bedlam Theatre, Bemidji State University, Brave New Workshop, The Center for Sustainable Practice in the Arts, CostumeRentals, Guthrie Theater and Minnesota Theater Alliance.

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High-resolution images from the conference can be downloaded at http://minnesotatheateralliance.org/docs/sit/MTA_SIT_hires.zip

For more information on the Sustainability in Theater Conference, the Minnesota Theater Alliance and the Twin Cities Sustainable Theatres Group, please contact: Leah Cooper, 612-227-2046, leah@minnesotatheateralliance.org

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