Dynamic Architectural Windows and Doors

The changes to  California’s Title 24 codes  which came into effect on January 1st 2018 have had a noticeable impact on architecture, particularly on modern homes with large expanses of glass. At 60% glass in the envelope, you almost need to be a Chess Grand Master to plot the moves in advance to successfully achieve compliance. Whether you’re using the Prescriptive approach or the Performance model, it’s trickier now than ever before with modern designs. Here’s a look at managing code compliance in California and other states with similar requirements, including a reference list of fenestration considerations to address during the schematic design and design development of your project. Prescriptive Approach Prescriptive calculations are more straightforward  – every aspect of the envelope involving energy – fenestration, lighting, insulation, electrical systems – all have to meet a  minimum energy performance value  that, as a whole, guarantee compliance. The downside is

Once upon a time, there was an architect. He dreamed and he drew. First, he designed a small addition for a house down the street (actually his Mum’s but that’s largely irrelevant). Then he designed a cabin on a lake. Life was good. He was asked to design a house for the Mayor, then the Judge. Before long, his fame spread far beyond his hometown. Dukes, Princes, Kings, Queens and  Rupert Murdoch  all wanted him to design their houses. Yes, life was good indeed. And yet, a small voice in his head kept whispering, “You can still do better.” (As it happened, he was mildly schizophrenic but his doctor didn’t want to tell him until he had finished designing the doctor’s sun-room extension.) One night, as he sat in his favorite bar as architects do, he found himself sitting next to a little old man in a pointy hat with a black cat whose name was Morris. (It was that kind of bar.) He had a glass of water with what looked like a pickled worm in the bottom. (Apparently, the