Role of Architects in an AI-Driven WorldAs architects and design professionals, we are frequently called upon to act as decision-makers. We do that by synthesizing and evaluating vast array of information about design requirements, site constraints, budgets, schedules, and more. Our role is to navigate competing interests, strategies, design solutions, materials, systems, energy usage, and…
In the realm of occupational safety, contractors often face the challenge of encountering pre-existing hazards in their work environments. One such scenario involves substandard fixed ladders, particularly those within the pitch range of 60 to 75 degrees with the horizontal. In such cases, contractors must navigate their responsibilities diligently to mitigate fall risks and ensure…
In the dynamic landscape of construction and demolition in New York City, adherence to safety regulations is paramount. However, misconceptions often cloud the understanding of these regulations, leading to potential lapses in site safety. Let me debunk prevalent myths surrounding safety requirements, shedding light on the nuanced aspects of compliance. One widely misunderstood aspect pertains…
Kirigami-inspired anti-slip solutions:Icy or slippery conditions pose a significant threat to personal safety, especially during the winter months. Traditional methods of fall prevention often involve the use of anti-slip materials, but a groundbreaking approach inspired by Japanese paper-cutting art, specifically kirigami, could revolutionize our efforts to mitigate falls. Kirigami, a variation of origami that involves…
A simple act of fetching water on a hot Sunny day becomes a delightful architectural experience at the stepped well of Adalaj in India. This stepped well was built by Mohammed Begda in 1499 AD and has become a wonderful place of refuge for weary travelers. Greetings from Adalaj, India. The stepped well of AdalajAdalaj…
When people think about India, they think of the Taj Mahal and the colonial capital of New Delhi. But there are countless other places of historical, religious and majestic significance. Bhavnagar is one such place on the western coast of Gujarat State in India. It offers rich history, shoreline and a glimpse into the life…
San Francisco is known for its cultural, financial, and commercial significance. It is a popular tourist destination. The city is famous for its Golden Gate Bridge, steep streets, and Alcatraz Island. San Francisco has 44 billionaires, most of whom made their fortunes in the tech industry. It boasts world class universities such as Stanford University…
Why is Finland known as the world’s happiest country? A visit to Helsinki reveals that perhaps it is because Finns value experimenting with new things and learning from them. Helsinki offers a thriving Design District, the Chapel of Silence, and the library of the future. Greetings from Helsinki. Illusions of flying and lightness at Helsinki…
Lodz is a wonderful example of an industrial city of the past that has been reinvigorated as a thriving center for new technologies and media arts. It has produced many world renowned writers, architects, actresses, models and composers. Greetings from Lodz. From an Industrial Center to a Center for New Technologies and MediaLodz is the…
Warsaw is a fascinating city with equally fascinating people. People of Warsaw are known as Varsovians. A UNESCO world heritage site, Warsaw is notable for its indestructability and Jewish heritage. Greetings from Warsaw. From WW2 to a thriving metropolisWarsaw is the capital of Poland. It was founded in the 13th century and became the capital…
What city in the world has been continuously inhabited for more than 10,000 years? It is not Rome, Jerusalem, Athens or Alexandria. It is the historic city of Varanasi in India. Greetings from Varanasi, a city of myth, spiritual awakening and the cradle of human civilization. Allure of the ancient city of KashiVaranasi is an…
Greetings from Doha, Qatar!! After my brief layover at Doha airport, I created these postcards as a way to remember what I experienced. It is also a way to share my memories with others. Doha, Qatar airportAirports used to be places where you simply passed through. The idea was to enter, check-in, board an aircraft,…
President’s Day weekend is a great opportunity to pick up tech gadgets for working from home. I independently research and recommend the best products. If you buy something through my links, I may earn a commission. Tech Gadgets for working from home Mini PC with Windows 11 ProThis tiny PC comes equipped with 2.5-inch SSD,…
How accurate are artificial intelligence tools for “text to image” generation? Can they correctly predict your fashion preferences, passions, furniture style or desired vacation destinations? Text to image tools Text to image generation tools such as Dall-e are gaining momentum in the marketplace. They can create images based on your stated preferences in words. While…
Smart and immersive glass technologies are showing up in building interiors as well as facades. Will their use expand rapidly? What are they and what do they do? Where are such technologies in New York City? Tinted, smart and immersive glass The simplest form of smart glass technology is tinted glass. Such glass can switch…
The post pandemic world calls for novel solutions to limit the spread of infectious viruses. One such solution is a touchless elevator. While the industry is making rapid strides, the regulatory environment is slow to adapt. Here is an example of how a design team had to jump through hoops to get a building permit…
2022 has taught us that the next major climate event may arrive sooner than we expect. How do we prepare for it? Here is a list of 8 “must have” gadgets for you and your loved ones. Note: When you buy through product links, I may earn commission as an Amazon Affiliate. Power Inverter for…
Seven Climate Change related startups are doing amazing work to avert climate disaster and create long-term economic value. They are using technology, ingenuity, and invention to decarbonize the world and bring emissions to zero. Who are they, what is driving them and what are they trying to accomplish? The drivers of innovation Money is pouring…
As global leaders converge at the 27th Conference of Parties (COP27), we will hear loud debate on climate justice related to loss and damage. Who is responsible for loss and damage in the world’s poorest countries? Why should such countries suffer the most when they are not responsible for causing climate change? Regardless of what…
With growing frequency and intensity of weather events, power outages are becoming more common. Why do they happen? How long do they typically last? What should we do with perishable food in the refrigerator? How can we prepare for extended power outages? There are lots of questions and the best thing one can do is…
Just about everyone has felt the effects of extreme heat this year. It does not matter whether you believe in climate change or not, you felt it. The likelihood of getting severe heat waves in coming years is growing as global temperatures continue to rise. What can individuals and policymakers do to deal with future…
According a United Nations report, 3.6 billion people worldwide face water scarcity for at least one month each year. Even affluent communities in the United States restrict water usage during the peak summer season. Rainwater collection systems in homes and community wide infrastructure upgrades such as bioswales can help conserve water, reduce pressure on stormwater…
Can we live without clean air? Just hold your breath for a minute and you will know how critical clean air is for life. Vertical gardens and wall mounted trellis systems can improve air quality, bring nature to our living spaces, and enhance general health and wellbeing.
Is your building at risk of damage due to climate change? What are the chances? Where do you go for more information?
It was almost one year ago when Greta Thunberg galvanized the world against political inaction. She called it a “betrayal towards all present and future generations”.2 She called for immediate action to save the planet. What can we do to move away from blah blah blah and towards a sustainable future?
Gyms, martial arts studios, licensed massage therapy, and many other health-related businesses do not need to obtain a BSA special permit in New York City effective December 9, 2021.
Connecticut Governor’s Executive Order 7JJ states that building permits “valid as of March 10, 2020, shall not lapse or otherwise expire during the state of emergency, and the expiration date of the approval shall toll during the state of emergency.” What does that mean?
While reviewing plans for a building permit, code and zoning officials often raise objections citing potential illegal use due to proposed work. Is that justified?
Many people thought that their homes were safe because they were not in a flood zone. But recent weather events have changed their beliefs. Here what I would recommend you do if your home was flooded and sustained damage due to flooding or severe weather.
Building Departments are often characterized by bureaucratic permit processes, red tape, and constant delays. But change is in the air as many departments take advantage of online permit processes, improved customer service, digital plan reviews, remote inspections, and nimble organizational structures.
“Know thyself”. That is the great wisdom inscribed at the Temple of Apollo in Greece. Apollo was the God of music, harmony and light and occupied a prominent position in the Delphic Sanctuary. It is at this temple in Delphi, Greece, where Pythia, the famous oracle uttered these words in 4th century BC.
What brings hundreds of people to Piazza Navona in Rome every day? Is it the history that dates back to the Roman empire? Is it great urban design that celebrates human existence by offering places to shop, worship and play? Perhaps the answer lies in all of the above and more.