American Institute of Architects

As the largest design organization in the world, AIA is working to transform the day-to-day practice of architecture to achieve a zero-carbon, resilient, healthy, just, equitable built environment, for everyone.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 601 results.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course focuses on the rapidly growing data center industry and how critical it is to control noise for facility employees and residents living in neighboring areas and to follow city ordinances. The noise issues data centers pose for their workers and their external surroundings are examined, and practical solutions are reviewed.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Radon is a colorless, odorless gas, a Class A carcinogen, the leading cause of cancer after smoking, and the leading cause of death for nonsmokers. It is found in soil, rock, and groundwater. If radon enters a home through slabs, basements, and crawl spaces, breathing it can lead to illness or even death. This course examines how the gas travels through soil and into structures and the various interception approaches and materials that can be utilized to prevent entry into inhabited spaces. It also highlights building code requirements and language that can assist with ensuring the correct radon interception systems are designed and installed effectively.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Paint in its various forms is an older material whose composition has constantly evolved, even in modern times. This evolution has included the identification and removal of certain hazardous ingredients. Similarly, paint removers have also evolved and improved their ability to deal with a wide range of old and new paint formulas while remaining safe for the occupant, the worker, and the environment at large. This course examines state-of-the-art nontoxic paint removers that are effective in removing as many as thirty coats of paint in one safe and efficient operation.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    When renovating an existing bathroom, there is a choice between the resurfacing of existing wall coverings, bathtubs, or showers and a complete renovation where all the existing elements are removed and replaced with new ones. This course outlines the pros and cons of each alternative and introduces modern acrylic products as an excellent choice for either. You will learn all the ways that acrylic can be utilized in both new and renovated bathrooms and all the technical information required for a successful design outcome.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    A well-designed queuing system not only offers structure, efficiency, safety, and accessibility but also can enhance the aesthetics and visual appeal of an environment. This course presents an overview of the important factors that need to be considered when designing and specifying public queuing and pedestrian flow systems to facilitate a positive and orderly waiting experience.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Cleanliness and sanitation are important aspects of buildings and businesses, especially in restrooms. Users want environments where they don’t have to worry about picking up germs while owners desire solutions that are safe, attractive, and cost effective. Smart, connected fixtures can leverage sensor technology to optimize user experiences while also streamlining the management of building facilities, conserving water, and providing a hygienic, touchless experience for users. 

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Critical to concrete waterproofing are the products used in combination to create a system that ensures complete control of moisture migration. Presented here are effective concrete waterproofing technologies and how they improve the durability and lifespan of structures. Discussions include water penetration, system selection, membrane protection, and cementitious waterproofing.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Creating a quieter, more comfortable building starts with a focus on windows and doors, the weakest links in the building envelope for sound transmission. This course covers the elements of sound, the metrics used to measure sound attenuation, and the glazing and installation options best suited for an effective sound control strategy.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Fundamentally, a building envelope functions as an environmental separator, and has specific hygrothermal control requirements. This course examines how insulated metal panels (IMPs) create the perfect envelope solution, incorporating the same control layers as site built wall systems. Discussions include: building envelope design; perfect/universal walls; and the use of IMPs to provide the building envelope’s exterior finish, and the air, vapor, water, and thermal barriers.

  • ( ~ 2 hours, 30 minutes ) 

    The magnitude and negative impacts of solid waste have become increasingly apparent, especially in regard to plastics and their presence in the oceans. As a result, there have been many approaches to rethinking what constitutes waste and how it can be avoided or used/managed in a more sustainable manner. This course explores these emerging approaches to waste management planning and illustrates them with current examples of solid waste management plans and initiatives from various countries around the globe. In the first part of this course, we’ll dig into the impact of our growing waste problem and some methods for rethinking this waste. In the second, we’ll provide guidance for the design of a sustainable community waste management plan.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Flexible work scheduling, telework, virtual work, and the high cost of office space are some of the drivers of the 21st century workspace. This open, flexible, adaptable, and casual space must still serve not only the technological needs of its users, but also the accessibility needs of a diverse population. This course examines the technical requirements for providing accessibility, universal design, and ergonomics in an open office space and looks at a variety of solutions in the functional areas of the office: open office areas, the workspace, and collaboration areas.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course provides a comprehensive overview of quartz surfacing as a sustainable material in contemporary design. It examines the environmental impact, safety standards, and wide-ranging applications of quartz surfacing. The course focuses on manufacturing processes, performance characteristics, and the material’s contribution to sustainability, equipping participants with the knowledge to effectively utilize quartz surfacing in residential and commercial projects.

  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Today’s buildings are evolving from independently functioning structures to intelligent buildings that interact with occupants and surrounding buildings. This trend has impacted the design, operation, and maintenance of data centers around the globe due to the increased demand for data and digital communication and has resulted in more high-performance data centers. This presentation addresses the specific needs of data centers and presents high-performance design solutions that support sustainable design.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Synthetic sports turf systems offer all-weather play for a wide variety of sports and provide a consistent, durable surface with lower maintenance costs than natural grass. This course reviews the components of synthetic turf systems, different product types, and procedures for installation, maintenance, and use. Guidance is offered on how tested values can impact field performance and how to specify a system that meets safety, performance, use, and budget requirements.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The potential for scalding from point of use hot water affects all of us. While the very young and the very old are more susceptible, no one is immune from scalding danger. An understanding of the potential for scalding, as well as the physiology of burns from hot water, can guide our design choices and significantly reduce the danger to people using facilities that commonly supply hot water, such as lavatories, baths, and showers. This course discusses the potential for scalding, the physiology of burns due to hot water, and who is most susceptible. It also discusses the relevant codes and the fixtures available to designers that can help reduce scalding and burn potential.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    This course explores some of the tools at the core of sustainable facility management and how they can enhance indoor environmental quality, reduce environmental impact, and improve occupant well-being. It reviews how operational strategies can support organizational performance and talent attraction and retention in a changing workplace landscape. The course examines emerging trends, new tools and practices, and shifts in certification frameworks such as the LEED® v5 Operations and Maintenance and Building Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2 that reflect the growing demand for measurable performance and decarbonization efforts.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Humidity affects numerous industries, potentially leading to building damage and health problems. Mechanical dehumidifiers play a critical role in controlling humidity across different environments, ensuring comfort and safety while preventing any humidity or condensation issues that interfere with daily business. In this course, we provide insight into the principles of psychrometrics, enabling participants to understand the properties of air and water vapor mixtures significant to moisture control. We explore the operation of mechanical (vapor compression) dehumidifiers, their performance parameters and limitations, and installation configurations. Finally, we examine some examples of beneficial applications.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    In the last couple of decades, houses have become progressively more airtight due to energy efficiency and cost concerns. While air infiltration and exfiltration rates have been significantly reduced, the need for an efficient ventilation system has become extremely important. This course evaluates different types of mechanical ventilation systems and discusses why heat recovery ventilation (HRV) and energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems are characterized by a high level of energy efficiency and as an effective means for improving indoor air quality.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Outdoor living space has become an important residential design consideration in the last several years. Decks create welcoming spaces to relax and entertain with family and friends, and a well-built deck can add more living space and value to a home. This course discusses deck surfaces, maintenance, and costs and explores porcelain tile as an alternative to wood and composite deck surfaces that is well suited to exterior environments. Also discussed is how porcelain tile can be used with a new pultruded fiberglass and composite underlayment, called structural ribbed self-supporting boards, and the sustainable features of this technology.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Often the largest access point in a building, sectional door systems play a significant role in controlling energy costs and supporting sustainable design in residential and commercial buildings. This course explores the specification considerations and the different types of sectional garage doors, as well as their role in enhancing the thermal performance of homes and commercial buildings.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Air barriers improve the health and comfort of building occupants, improve energy efficiency, and prevent premature degradation of materials, increasing the structure’s life cycle. A successful air and moisture barrier system means under-slab, below-grade, and above-grade systems must work together to provide a continuous barrier. This course looks at above-grade air barrier systems and their types and components. Continuity and compatibility, specification, and installation challenges are also considered.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Light in the hands of a lighting designer is like a brush in the hands of an artist—it can make or break a show. In this course, we’ll explore the controllable properties of light, the various lighting fixture types and configurations commonly used in a stage setting, and the power and control distribution methods that underpin an effective lighting design. We’ll also review industry standards for low- and medium-voltage control methods, the evolution of related data systems, and the changes it has wrought in the industry.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The demand for mass timber construction has increased significantly in recent years due to its numerous benefits, including sustainability, strength, faster construction times, cost savings, and a natural wood aesthetic. However, a major drawback of mass timber construction is its poor acoustical performance. This course examines the various mass timber construction types and provides acoustical solutions to meet and surpass building codes.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Traditionally, home has been a place for retreat and sanctuary. But as more people work from home, it is increasingly difficult to disengage from work responsibilities and set aside the time needed to refresh ourselves. As our stress levels rise, so does the need for self-care. This course looks at two areas of the home that are ideal for performing self-care and improving our well-being, assisted by investing in luxurious items: the bathroom and the kitchen.

  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Light-manipulating glass products transport, redirect, refract, and reflect light to create architectural spaces that engage occupants with the unexpected interplay of light and shadow. This course explores these durable, functional products and their many options for customization. Also reviewed is how glass panels may apply to several credits and features in the LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction and Interior Design and Construction rating systems and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2.

Displaying 1 - 25 of 601 results.

FIRST [1-25] [26-50] [51-75] [76-100] [101-125] NEXT LAST