Air Barriers The Latest Tool in Moisture Control
When it comes to controlling moisture at the building envelope, the
construction industry has traditionally focused on blocking water and
vapor from entering and getting trapped in the external wall assembly.
But recent theories suggest that there's a third culprit in the moisture
intrusion mystery—air.
Air Barrier Association of America article
Building Design and Construction article
Was Egyptian pyramid built from the inside out?
More than 4,500 years after its completion virtually everything is known
about Khufu's pyramid except for the most important fact: Its method
of construction. French architect Jean-Pierre Houdin says he’s unraveled
the mystery of how ancient Egyptians constructed the Great Pyramid of
Khufu. After more than eight years of studying the site, Houdin
concludes that the pyramid was built from the inside out using an
internal spiral ramp.At present there are no answers to the mysteries of this colossal monument:
146.70 meters in height (the world's tallest building until the nineteenth century). 230.60 meters
square base, 2.6 million cubic meters in volume, and 5,500,000 tons in weight spread uniquely
over more than 220 layers. This book solves the riddles of Khufu's pyramid by combining
archaeological information from distinguished researchers, and a professional architect’s
approach. This monument set many precedents, such as it was the first building in history to use
integrated technical means for its construction - and in its architecture. After studying in detail all
of the components of the pyramid - materials, tools, transportation and human strength - Mr.
Houdin pieces together the extraordinary planning and organization, the technical skill, and the
machines which allowed this great pyramid to rise over a period on twenty-one years, and last
until today.
Archeology article
Green skyscraper will have 'steel-like' concrete skin
How can high population densities be managed? Simultaneously how can we limit the
environmental impact of buildings? The key lies in constructing environmentally responsible
buildings that blend in harmoniously with the city landscape. Hypergreen aims to make this
dream a reality while meeting the requirements of the “sustainable building”: choosing
ecologically friendly materials, simplifying construction methods and respecting the environment
in its day to day use.
In this exclusive podcast from Building Design+Construction, Managing Editor Dave Barista talks
with Paris-based architect Jacques Ferrier about his latest concept for a "green" mixed-use
skyscraper, called Hypergreen. The design incorporates a curving lattice façade made of ultra-high-
performance concrete that will act as the building's primary structural system. Click here.
