This issue has a focus on Schools and Institutions, both higher education and K-12. The industry is as busy as ever, with a big variety of both new builds and renovation projects being highlighted. It’s wonderful to see how teams are finding creative ways to restore and preserve historic buildings while creating spaces that meet accessibility requirements and place a priority on sustainability and inclusivity.
Anastasia Barnes
In his article, Design for Neurodiversity, Michael Tyre of Amenta Emma Architects breaks down how designers are recognizing the impacts environmental factors have on people, and creating spaces where all people can thrive. He says, “As our conception and awareness of diversity and inclusivity grows, we must consider broader concepts in the effort to create spaces of belonging.” He says this shift in priorities stems from the understanding that “there is no ‘correct way’ for the brain to work. Instead, there is a broad range of ways people perceive and respond to the world, and these differences are to be embraced and encouraged.” Read the full article on page 12.
I’m looking forward to attending the Society for College and University Planning’s (SCUP) 2024 North Atlantic Regional Conference on March 24-26 in Boston. For this issue, I caught up with Michael A. Nieminen, FAIA, principal at Kliment Halsband Architects, a Perkins Eastman Studio, and the 2023-2026 council chair of SCUP North Atlantic Region, on what key initiatives he is prioritizing to enhance integrated planning within the higher education landscape, and how he is ensuring that SCUP’s offerings align with the evolving needs of the higher ed community in the North Atlantic region. Nieminen says, “Topics of particular relevance include accelerated movement toward zero carbon emissions, master planning, student life, workplace, faculty engagement, and declining enrollment trends.” Read the full interview on page 10.
Fulcrum Associates, based in Amherst, N.H., is currently overseeing the construction of a facility for C/A Design, part of The Heico Companies LLC’s Thermal Solutions Segment (TSS), in Exeter. Of the $35 million project, Robert Kennedy, president of C/A Design and Heico’s TSS, said, “This expansion will allow for the continued growth in manufacturing our cooling systems deployed in aircraft systems and military defense applications that enable and protect the American warfighter.” Read more about this exciting project on page 28.
I’m excited to attend the Construction Institute’s Women Who Build Summit on March 26-27 at UMass Amherst. High-Profile is the media sponsor for this year’s event. I’m looking forward to seeing friends and colleagues, and hearing from all of the fabulous women sharing their experience and knowledge with us! See you there!
The next issue has a focus on Multi-Residential and Senior/Assisted Living facilities. Be sure to send us your news or industry insights for these sectors! It will also include our annual MEP/Building Energy supplement. Contact us at [email protected] with questions or to submit content or advertisements for this exciting supplement.The deadline for both issues is March 22.
Enjoy the read!
Anastasia Barnes
