Materials
Materials Metal Specialties | Metal Railings | Decorative Metal | Wood Framing “My top picks were based either on real innovation in performance with sleek-looking design (BrightShelf), wide applicability in the market (TJ-insulated products), or pure beauty and seductive appeal (Crystal Titanium).” — Gina Bocra
Crystal Titanium
The jury liked the beautiful, organic surface of Crystal Titanium, a proprietary product developed by Architectural Titanium that is produced by physically growing the titanium crystals in a highly controlled and specialized vacuum chamber. Made of Grade 2 titanium, the finish is an intrinsic part of the metal (rather than a surface finish) and can be used for roofing, exterior wall cladding, interior wall cladding, ceilings, and decorative details (see bar, left). full caption
CRL TAPER-LOC
The CRL TAPER-LOC from C.R. Laurence is a tempered laminated glass railing system (shown below and right) for interior and exterior applications. The patented systems are Miami/Dade County tested and approved and are safe for use in high-rise buildings. They support 9/16, 11/16, 27/32, and 11/16 thick tempered laminated glass, and are claimed to install 50% faster than traditional wet glaze systems, resulting in significant labor savings. full caption
CRL TAPER-LOC
The CRL TAPER-LOC from C.R. Laurence is a tempered laminated glass railing system (shown below and right) for interior and exterior applications. The patented systems are Miami/Dade County tested and approved and are safe for use in high-rise buildings. They support 9/16, 11/16, 27/32, and 11/16 thick tempered laminated glass, and are claimed to install 50% faster than traditional wet glaze systems, resulting in significant labor savings. full caption
Trus Joist TJ-Insulated Products
This line of structural framing materials from Weyerhaeuser is designed to help building professionals meet 2011 Energy Star for Homes standards and 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements. The collection features integrated, preassembled headers, rim board, and corners that offer more consistent R-values and reduced thermal bridging than traditional framing methods. Sized to fit conventional 2x6 framing, the line features TimberStrand LSL, Weyerhaeuser Framer Series Lumber, and Dow Thermax insulation. It is currently available in the northeastern United States. full caption
Port Authority Mediamesh Installation
The worlds largest transparent media screen is located on the corner of 42nd Street and Eighth Avenue on the facade of New York Citys Port Authority Bus Terminal. GKD-USA installed 6,000 square feet of Mediamesh, a stainless steel metal mesh fabric with integrated LED profiles, to generate electronic billboards and light displays on 16 panels on the facade. The materials transparency allows it to use fewer LEDs, without sacrificing views, airflow, or ventilation. In August, the screen was put to the test when it delivered public safety messages while sustaining 65 mph winds during Hurricane Irene. full caption