UPDATE: California’s Title 24, Part 6 Building Energy Code The 2025 Title 24 Part 6 (Energy) code expands on the new construction baselines, for single-zone heat pumps, introduced in the 2022 code update. It encourages electric-ready buildings, for when owners are ready to invest in those technologies. It updates photovoltaic and battery energy storage system… Read More
Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems are vital to how a building performs, but over time, these systems age, lose efficiency, and struggle to meet modern performance, safety, and sustainability standards. Retrofitting MEP systems in existing buildings is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy use, lower operating costs, increase property value and… Read More
The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry is continually evolving, driven by innovation, efficiency, and technology. Architects face intense competition in delivering projects faster, more cost-effectively, and with fewer errors. Partnering with an AI-powered MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) firm is becoming an essential strategy for architects looking to maintain and enhance their competitive edge…. Read More
Hawaii is at the forefront of clean energy adoption, with a statewide goal of reaching 100% renewable energy by 2045. A key part of this vision includes expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to support the growing number of EVs on the road. While progress is being made, developing a reliable and accessible EV charging… Read More
Sustainable building design is a growing priority in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry as organizations look to reduce environmental impact and operational costs. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification has become the benchmark for green building standards, offering clear benefits—lower energy use, healthier indoor environments, and reduced carbon footprints. With the… Read More
When designing a storm drainage system for a building, choosing between siphonic and gravity drainage systems is a crucial decision that impacts both performance and cost. Each system has its own unique advantages and limitations, making it essential for architects and project owners to understand how they work. In this blog, we’ll compare siphonic drainage… Read More
Building Information Modeling (BIM) has revolutionized the construction industry, enabling more efficient planning, design, and coordination. Among the many advantages of BIM, one of the most crucial is the ability to detect and resolve conflicts early in the process, well before construction begins. When it comes to MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) and FP (Fire Protection)… Read More
MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) systems play a crucial role in the functionality and efficiency of any building. These systems account for a significant portion of the total project costs, therefore the design process must be carefully managed to optimize performance, reduce waste, and stay within budget. In recent years, AI-powered MEP design has emerged as… Read More
Energy efficiency is a key focus in modern building systems, and one technology that plays a vital role in achieving it is the Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). VFDs are used to control the speed of electric motors, decreasing energy use, enhancing system performance, and extending equipment life. In this blog, we’ll cover the basics of… Read More
Coordinating designs across architectural, structural, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) disciplines is one of the most challenging components of any construction project. Communication breakdowns, late-stage disputes, and misaligned designs can cause delayed schedules and budget overruns. BIM coordination offers a solution to this by ensuring that all disciplines work from a single, centralized model…. Read More
The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry made significant strides in the adoption and integration of AI technologies in 2024. This embrace of AI reshaped workflows, improved efficiency, and opened new possibilities across design, construction, and sustainability. However, challenges remain, and the path forward will require overcoming hurdles and seizing emerging opportunities. The Growing Importance… Read More
Effective roof drainage is regarded as critical for protecting buildings from water damage, ensuring structural integrity, and maintaining occupant safety. With increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and heavier rainfall caused by climate change, having a reliable drainage system has become more important than ever. Without effective solutions, rainwater accumulation can result in roof leaks, structural stress,… Read More
Electrical rooms are essential for the functionality and safety of commercial buildings. These spaces house critical systems such as transformers, switchgear, and circuit breakers, which ensure seamless power distribution. The equipment within electrical rooms also pose a significant risk. A common question arises: do these rooms need to be fire-rated? The answer depends on various… Read More
As building designs become more complex and costly, selecting the right HVAC system, that provides optimal comfort and energy efficiency, has never been more challenging. One solution that’s been gaining popularity is Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology, which offers many benefits, helping building owners and developers make better informed decisions about energy management, system flexibility,… Read More
Maintaining optimal humidity levels in commercial and residential spaces is absolutely crucial for the health, comfort, and safety of the occupants everywhere, and even more so in Florida. The warm and moist climate presents many challenges that need special solutions. Effective HVAC humidity control improves comfort, prevents mold growth, protects building materials, and ensures efficient… Read More