WORKING WITH A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Good photography is important to any architect or designer for documenting completed projects and for attracting new work. An experienced professional photographer can capture the feeling of a space, providing more than simply a literal representation. But finding the right photographer for your design style is not as simple as looking in a directory, and there are a few lessons to heed about developing a working relationship. Next week Mike Butler will offer a brief guide to finding and hiring a professional photographer who can put your work in its best light.

ESCAPE FROM LOW, FLAT CEILINGS

School cafeteria designs have come a long way since the days of the sterile "lunch boxes" of the 1960s and 1970s. Today, school architects are more aware of how wall, floor, and ceiling aesthetics can affect a learning environment. Some are incorporating distinctly non-boxy design elements in schoolroom design. When Legat Architects designed a cafeteria addition for Niles West High School in Skokie, Illinois, they wanted to create an open and airy atmosphere. Next week USG product manager Graeme D. Gee will describe how specialty ceilings contributed to this renovation.

NEW HAMPSHIRE ANNOUNCES DESIGN AWARDS

The New Hampshire Chapter of the American Institute of Architects has announced the results of its 2003 Excellence in Architecture Awards Program. Receiving an honorable mention for environmental sensitivity is the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center (pictured) by Christopher Williams Architects (photo by Greg West Photography). The building's construction preserved most of the existing trees on the site and used natural materials, daylight, and natural ventilation. Functional photovoltaic and solar hot water panels are integrated into the center's exhibit. Next week we'll take a look at more New Hampshire award winners.