HIGH-TECH WINDOWS COULD SAVE ENERGY

A window is one of the most complex components in a building. It gives us light, views, fresh air, and the sun's warmth. Yet at times trying to balance these benefits works against the goals of comfort and energy savings. Having too few windows deprives workers of psychologically important vistas and increases the need for electric lighting. But too much direct sunlight can cause glare and increase the cooling load. And the delicate balance among all these factors changes throughout the day and year.

IRISH STONE WALLS

The Irish countryside is a patchwork of over 250,000 miles (400,000 kilometers) of stone walls. Built from local stone according to the style of each region, these walls are an intrinsic part of the landscape. Patrick McAfee, a consultant and expert stonemason, reveals the history of this ancient tradition and gives illustrated examples of the care and restoration of stone walls of all types.

DESIGN LAB SHEDS LIGHT ON ENERGY CONSERVATION

By the time a building is constructed—and its lighting found wanting—it us usually to late to go "back to the drawing board." Some architects solve this problem by simulating light in space through computer visualizations or physical models. In Seattle's Lighting Design Lab, designers and building operators can mock up an architectural space in its full size. These realistic mockups lead to qualitatively better lighting design and quantitatively superior energy conservation.

E-COMMERCE FOR FACILITY MANAGERS

Electronic commerce is penetrating every niche of the notoriously conservative field of architecture and construction. Architects are using the Internet to collaborate with consultants; builders are placing on-line orders for equipment and supplies. But what about the professionals who manage facilities after construction is complete? Are they reaping full benefits of the available technologies?

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