First Thoughts
how the design-build community is dealing with COVID-19 and its many ramifications.
LONGMONT, COLORADO | AUGUST 2020
Greetings. I’m really excited to share this issue with you, because we have a nice mix of articles that cover a wide range of design technologies. As the pandemic continues to exact a toll on the country, there are many places where people are behaving responsibly, and businesses are able to operate with full staffs based on prudency and attention to detail. If you don’t let your guard down, there are plenty of opportunities to be had. In fact, I’ve heard from countless designers and integrators that they are as busy as ever.
We kick off this issue with a timely dissertation from Stephanie Casimiro on how we all move forward in the design-build community post-pandemic. Steph takes a positive outlook generally, and I really enjoy her upbeat take on getting back to what we all do best – exceeding client expectations. As far as technologies that are impacting designs in the world of COVID-19, we have an update on voice control by Alex Capecelatro and an interview with Phil Zheng of RichTech, who walks us through thermographic imaging displays – that term is a mouthful, but you’ll be seeing them everywhere over the course of the next few months, including luxury residential and MDU properties.
As everyone reading this is well aware, the impact on families sequestering together for months has been a major influence on where people’s heads are at as the summer progresses vis-à-vis home make-overs. And our writers have been capturing these eventual outcomes: architect Wayne Visbeen talks about outdoor living and how to create true indoor/outdoor spaces, George McClure explores how homeowners are re-visiting under-utilized spaces, and Steve Panosian brings us a comprehensive look at indoor air filtration systems that are designed for particular rooms and spaces.
We also take a look at living in place scenarios, with Bill Hensley presenting a comprehensive punch list of ideas and design attributes one must consider regardless of the occupant’s age or mobility. And we welcome back David Warfel with another great article on lighting, which everyone I talk to seems to feel is the cornerstone of modern residential design. David takes a look at linear lighting, which delivers an unbelievable experience as long as you properly think through your design.
Finally, we take a look at some of the most cutting-edge projection systems happening in residential design. You will be amazed at what you can do in media rooms and dedicated theaters and how these spaces will serve for more than just movie watching. And Cat Toomey shares a feel good story about how an industry bands together to help wounded warriors – a special look at the Gary Sinise Foundation’s wonderful work.
Let’s go see where technology meets design.
D.
Technology Designer
WHERE TECHNOLOGY
MEETS DESIGN
DOUG WEINSTEIN
EDITOR | INFLUENCER | PARTNER
TECHNOLOGY DESIGNER
DOUG@TECHNOLOGYDESIGNER.COM
714.865.5106
