Industry Trends

The United States is home to one of the world’s largest construction industries with over 1.29 billion in spending. Commercial Construction is expected to continue to grow and innovate new methods in 2023. Below is a look at five industry trends:

1. Increase in Modular Design – A building is constructed offsite and then put together on-site. Modular construction typically involves creating at least 60-90% of a structure before bringing it to the construction site. The modular design process offers three advantages:
   • By taking construction into controlled factory environments construction time is cut in half. This approach allows work to proceed simultaneously and requires no waiting for other trades to complete their work.
   • A greener building process that reduces waste by allowing crews to recycle used materials and control inventory.
   • Smarter design prioritizes cost-effective methods to create buildings quicker, safer, and cheaper.
2. Upsurge in Green Building – Building operations and construction create nearly 40 percent of global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions. Industry business leaders are pursuing ways to minimize material waste resulting from demolitions, moving to eco-friendly building materials, and selecting locally sourced building products.
3. Improved Design Technology – Building Information Modeling (BIM) is rapidly reimagining the construction design and production process. This design technology allows the user to create a virtual building model. In addition to improving building design and drafting efficiency, it saves every trade involved in the project time and money by virtually eliminating unforeseen issues or accidents.Virtual design and construction (VDC) describe the growing use of virtual environments to engineer and visualize the construction of structures before they’re built in the physical world. These virtual environments can be accessed via desktop, and mobile devices, along with augmented and virtual reality hardware. It’s estimated that reworks of faulty or incorrect builds account for nearly 30% of construction industry costs. The virtual design greatly reduces the need for reworks of incorrect builds by allowing builders to initially build structures in a virtual environment.
4. Advanced Workforce Efficiency – Over the last eight years construction job openings have increased by 50 percent, but the number of new employees in the industry comprises just 14 percent of the workforce. As a result, construction companies must innovate to make up for the decreased number of workers. This is evident through high-tech equipment, automation, and smarter building innovations.
5. Utilizing Drones – Using drones to measure stockpiles of building materials in real time has resulted in a 61% increase in measurement accuracy. Also, construction companies using drones can survey and inspect various locations without putting any actual humans in harm’s way.
6. Mobile Construction Apps – New mobile technologies which began during the Pandemic are enabling crews to provide accurate photo documentation to clients, contractors, and inspectors, allowing some aspects of project completion to occur offsite.

New methodologies including modular design, minimizing waste, improved design technology, workforce efficiency, utilizing drones, and mobile apps will enable commercial construction companies to complete projects faster and cheaper than ever before in 2023.

For more information on how LA Creed is having a positive impact on your community visit https://creedla.com.

Ever since the signing of executive order 13514 by President Obama, US federal departments and agencies have been mandated to make their buildings and operations as eco-friendly as possible. While various department plans are being drafted, the greatest example of this environmental commitment is in the NASA Ames Sustainability Base.

What is the NASA Ames Sustainability Base?

The Ames Sustainability Base is NASA’s latest addition to the Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley. The idea for the facility began in 2007 when NASA launched their “Renovation by Replacement” campaign to upgrade their worksite conditions for the humans inside and the environment outside. Among the 60 federal facilities that are up for LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certification, the Ames Sustainability Base is one of the very few businesses to earn the platinum certification.

What Makes the Ames Sustainability Base Different?

The reason the Ames Sustainability Base is a technological marvel is because NASA has taken their design philosophy for space missions and applied it to architecture. The high energy needs of the facility are greatly supported by green technologies, including on-site solar panels, geothermal wells, and a non-combustion Bloom Energy box.

Water reclamation is an important feature for NASA space missions, but it can also be used to great effect down here on Earth. By filtering water from toilets and urinals, NASA plans to cut down on water consumption by 90% and use the reclaimed water for local irrigation.

When it comes to the structure of the facility, many of the materials and pieces of furniture are made with recycled materials, including metals and wood from prior NASA projects.

Environmental technology is also present in the landscape around the building, primarily through the use of stone bioswales that filter pollution out of the earth.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard-working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA online or at (877) 810-7473.

Between architects, engineers, and construction companies (AEC), the process of erecting a building is filled with opportunities for miscommunication, mismeasuring, and misfortune. Luckily for those in the field of construction, technology has now caught up to meet their needs with one incredibly useful tool: BIM.

What is BIM?

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is an exciting opportunity for AEC businesses across the globe that are planning new construction projects. The goal of BIM is to take data from architects and engineers and produce a thorough representation of the structure that will be referenced throughout the development process.

(https://www.autodesk.ca/en)

Benefits of BIM

While physical blueprints are always vulnerable to human error and miscommunication between architect and building crews, BIM provides a 3D model that provides an in-depth analysis of the structure’s functionality, as well as constant contact between all parties involved in its development. If any user changes the designs to better fit their needs, the changes are also applied to all views for all parties.

BIM isn’t just useful as a producer of structure models and project plans, it also delivers key information for ongoing maintenance of the building. Maintenance data displayed by BIM includes heatmaps for tracking energy distribution in buildings as well as areas of high pressure where future repairs may be needed.

BIM vs. CAD

Computer Aided Design (CAD) does work when drafting basic home structures, but is incredibly limited due to its lack of parameters. BIM possesses a vast catalogue of supplies and building materials, creating a true-to-life depiction of your project and presenting the practical effect of your choices and plans. Unlike CAD, BIM is also used for civil and road engineering as well as urban infrastructure design.

With the new developments taking place in South Los Angeles, there has never been a better time for AEC companies to join the construction revolution. Call us today at (877) 810-7473 or visit us online to find out how BIM technologies can work for you.

Ironworkers Were Instrumental in Helping the Wilshire Grand Center Make its Mark on Los Angeles

The accolades & critical acclaim for downtown LA’s new 73 story Wilshire Grand Center wouldn’t have been possible without the work of thousands of people in varying trades. However, ironworkers from helped the 1,100 ft. structure not just rise taller than anything else in the city – and taller than anything west of the Mississippi River for that matter – but set a world record doing so!

Turner Construction Company sought to claim the record for the largest continuous concrete pour, amounting to 21,200 cubic yards altogether. To do so, approximately 7 million pounds of reinforcing steel was expertly placed and tied by ironworkers. Over the course of six weeks, these hardworking individuals readied the site so the pour attempt could take place. Finally, on Saturday, February 15, 2014, concrete began flowing into 18-foot-deep rebar and… Record accomplished!

The Coalition for Responsible Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA) proudly supports environmentally-responsible construction projects throughout Los Angeles that not only have a positive impact on the local community, but support LA’s working families as well.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA at (877) 810-7473.

Photo: http://happeningindtla.com/wilshire-grand-tower-explored/

For almost all of human history, stone & wood were the most commonly used building materials. Understandably, these materials were plentiful and highly workable. Although iron has been utilized for a millennia, it wasn’t until the dawn of the Industrial Revolution that iron’s true usefulness became realized, and America’s skylines began to soar.

Early ironworkers experienced immensely exciting, albeit dangerous, work as the nation built itself skyward. With perhaps a scant decade of service possible due to job hazards, these “cowboys in the sky” helped transform our nation into the industrialized juggernaut that further cemented our reputation as the “land of opportunity”.

The inherent risks of this burgeoning profession led to the formation of the International Association of Bridge and Structural Iron Workers of America on February 4, 1896. Sixteen delegates founded the union in Pittsburgh in order to establish protections and rights for their hard work, a tradition which continues today.

The Coalition for Responsible Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA) proudly supports environmentally-responsible construction projects throughout Los Angeles that not only have a positive impact on the local community, but support LA’s working families as well.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA at (877) 810-7473.

Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium features an innovative, retractable roof design.

Large-capacity stadiums capable of seating over 70,000 crazed fans is nothing new as most major metropolitan areas have professional sports franchises warranting the construction of such facilities. For the most part, these stadiums are of a roofless design, leaving players and fans vulnerable to the elements. For some, that’s merely part of the experience, but there are an overwhelming majority of people who, for good reason, don’t want to get wet, freeze, or sweat after spending $500 between a pair of seats and concessions… Go figure!

The Atlanta Falcons (NFL) and Atlanta United (MLS) will share the newly constructed Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Designed by HOK, it features many unique design elements, including an eight panel retractable roof inspired by the Roman Pantheon. Resembling a pinwheel, it was designed to open or close in just 12 minutes, allowing fans to enjoy much more than just the game, regardless of weather.

The Coalition for Responsible Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA) proudly supports environmentally-responsible construction projects throughout Los Angeles that not only have a positive impact on the local community, but support LA’s working families as well.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA at (877) 810-7473.

The Lovell House… Truly Ahead of its Time!

Upon first approaching the (deceptively) simple looking structure built into the side of a cliff in Los Feliz, it looks like any number of buildings constructed after 1980. Its steel frame, concrete walls, and casement windows could easily pass for any random professional building dotting the modern landscape… But this one’s different.

First, it’s not a professional building. It was built in 1929 as a private residence for Dr. Phillip Lovell and his family; henceforth known as the Lovell House. Designed by architect Richard Neutra, it represents an early example of the International Style design language. Furthermore Lovell House stands out as one of the most important homes of the 20th century because it was the first steel frame house built in the United States. This method of construction is typically reserved for skyscrapers, but Neutra learned the necessary techniques while working with the firm Holabird & Roche in Chicago.

The Coalition for Responsible Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA) proudly supports environmentally-responsible construction projects throughout Los Angeles that not only have a positive impact on the local community, but support LA’s working families as well.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA at (877) 810-7473.

photo: photo © Penn State University Libraries Architecture and Landscape Architecture Library | CC BY-NC 2.0, via Flickr

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‘Going Goth’ is Helping Buildings Become Stronger and Lighter

Gothic architecture has long been defined by the churches and cathedrals created during this changeful period in human history. While distinct details define this style, its many revolutionary building techniques are being reexamined today.

After researching the construction of historic Gothic structures, the Department of Architecture at ETH Zurich in Switzerland discovered that the Roman-origin building technique uses subtle arches to span spaces while flying buttresses serve as reinforcements for the exterior walls of many structures.

Since construction techniques used in the Gothic era differ greatly relative to techniques utilized today, researchers at ETH propose creating flooring similar to those used in the Gothic era. Something resembling a honeycomb pattern of solid areas with voids would allow the flooring to be poured without requiring additional reinforcements.

The Gothic-based honeycomb method is 70% lighter than modern equivalents, all the while saving space, being environmentally-friendly, and proving more cost effective.

The Coalition for Responsible Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA) proudly supports environmentally-responsible construction projects throughout Los Angeles that not only have a positive impact on the local community, but support LA’s working families as well.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA at (877) 810-7473.

picture: http://www.skyscrapercity.com

Vinyl Never Went Out of Style!

Although completely obliterated by aliens or natural disasters in no less than three major Hollywood productions, the Capitol Records Building, located just north of the world famous intersection of Hollywood and Vine, has proven to be a well-loved (and wholly unscathed) fixture of the Los Angeles skyline for over 60 years.

Designed by Welton Becket – who also penned the rather mundane department store that would later become the stunning Petersen Automotive Museum – this 13-story structure opened in 1956 and holds the distinct honor of being the world’s first circular office building. Given Capitol Records standing as one of the most recognizable names in music, such a design philosophy makes sense… The floors are (supposedly) meant to resemble a stack of vinyl records. The coolest feature of the building, however, may be its steeple; it features a red light that continually blinks H-O-L-L-Y-W-O-O-D in morse code… Perhaps that’s what attracted the aliens!

The Coalition for Responsible Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA) proudly supports environmentally-responsible construction projects throughout Los Angeles that not only have a positive impact on the local community, but support LA’s working families as well.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA at (877) 810-7473.

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Burj Khalifa. There’s Tall, and Then There’s TALL!

Peter Ellis revolutionized the world when he created Liverpool’s Oriel Chambers (1864), the first building to utilize an iron frame and glass “curtain walls”. This served as the genesis for the world’s first true skyscraper, Chicago’s 138 ft. tall Home Insurance Building (1885). It’s steel frame allowed for superior load-bearing capabilities while advancements in materials like concrete and glass allowed for more flexible construction techniques and applications. Such methodology became the default construction “recipe” for all skyscrapers since, including the world’s tallest…

The colossal 2717 ft. tall Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE.

Utterly dwarfing the 1250 ft. tall Empire State Building by almost a 2:1 margin and holding no less than seven world records, including: tallest building, tallest freestanding structure, highest number of stories, and highest outdoor observation deck, the Burj Khalifa is a triumphant testament to human design, engineering, and construction that stands above all until someone goes higher!

The Coalition for Responsible Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA) proudly supports environmentally-responsible construction projects throughout Los Angeles that not only have a positive impact on the local community, but support LA’s working families as well.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA at (877) 810-7473.

*image from Getty