EDUCATION PROVIDER PROGRAM (EPP)

Interior designers are often left out of discussions around supply chain decarbonization and material circularity because so much focus is placed on the impact of structural and mass materials. The truth is that interior design has an enormous effect on climate when we consider the aggregate impact of the renovation cycle. For the interior practitioner, the primary way to mitigate that climate impact is through enhancing and deepening our perspective on circular design. This course will explore the opportunity interior designers have to create positive spaces for their clients by relying on circular economy principles for material selection, vendor partnership, and even integrated design collaboration. The course demonstrates how multiple approaches to extending the life of our products and the materials that make them can have a positive impact on both the interior and natural environments.

Materials used on exterior and interior surfaces need to withstand many elements, including water, scratched, high temperatures, UV, wind, etc. Choosing a material is certainly influenced by the ability to hold up over time but also by the available size and weight, maintenance, hygiene, bending properties, recyclability, VOC, not to mention the appearance and efficient and cost-effective installation. There is one new product category that will be the focus of this course, namely Sintered Compact Surfaces that can be used for a wide variety of application interior and exterior from countertops to curtain walls applications in both residential and commercial buildings.

The purpose of this course is to dive deeper into the here-to-stay multi-generational household and what it means to building, remodeling and other trade professionals.

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is an extremely versatile resilient flooring product that is commonly used both residentially and commercially, specifically in educational, healthcare, and corporate settings where long lasting performance is key. This course will explore the performance benefits, design features, and applications for luxury vinyl tile where durability, low maintenance, versatility, sustainability, and affordability are desired or required.

The course provides a detailed exploration of the benefits and practical applications of metal in both interior and exterior commercial projects. Participants learn about the latest trends in metal ceiling and wall designs, including the diverse range of styles, shapes, and patterns available. The course covers critical aspects of the manufacturing process and offers insights into choosing metal elements that ensure durability and optimal building performance. Additionally, the course highlights how metal installations can enhance user comfort and align with environmental sustainability goals, promoting efficient energy use and responsible material sourcing.

This course explores the history and evolution of plumbing fixtures, focusing on key advancements that have shaped modern systems and their role in safeguarding public well-being. Participants will examine the significance of water codes and regulations in protecting the environment and public health. The course also highlights plumbing fixture innovations that enhance user experience, safety, accessibility, and promote water conservation.

Designing a high-performance building enclosure requires more than just surface-level protection; it demands a rigorous, performance-based mastery of below-grade water and gas mitigation. This discussion will provide an expert-level analysis of below-grade waterproofing within the comprehensive framework of the high-performance building enclosure. Participants will examine the fundamental physical forces — hydrostatic pressure, capillary action, and water table dynamics — that jeopardize structural longevity. Participants will evaluate the two most common below-grade application methods: positive-side and blindside (pre-applied) systems, with a focus on selecting successful product and system solutions for complex urban project conditions. We will also explore the key technical performance attributes of different product technologies and types of waterproofing membranes, as well as address passive and active gas-resistant membrane systems for contaminated sites. We will cover how to eliminate scope gaps and foster essential coordination between designers, manufacturers, and contractors to ensure a seamless, high-performance building enclosure. By the end of this session, attendees will be equipped to mitigate the risk of common enclosure failures through evidence-based design and coordinated technical documentation.

What are the fundamental elements of data center design, and how do structural ceilings shape the future of these critical facilities? This course will explore key definitions, recent trends, the importance of structural ceilings, energy-efficient ceiling solutions, and the value of collaboration with other trades. In this course, participants will understand how building materials such as structural grid can lead to future flexibility and annual cost savings. This course will also review uses of structural ceilings outside of data centers

This course introduces structural cementitious panels and their applications in cold-formed steel mid-rise buildings. Participants will explore key features such as fire resistance, soundproofing capabilities, and structural integrity. The course compares various structural systems and emphasizes the benefits of using cementitious panels, including quick installation, adaptability to various weather conditions, and faster project completion. Practical examples will showcase how these panels contribute to safe, durable, and efficient building projects.

This presentation will provide architects with a working knowledge of how current trends in acoustic design for classrooms can support improved learning environments for students, as well as increase the overall comfort and well-being of all occupants. Acoustics in classrooms should be a priority for designers as ambient background noise and intruding sounds can be a major distraction and nuisance for both students and educators. Elements to consider when addressing the acoustic performance of a classroom include controlling reverberation, background noise, and sound isolation. This presentation will offer specific instruction for architects when specifying materials within the classroom environment to ensure current standards are met, and acoustic performance is maximized.

Ultracompact surfaces represent the future in building materials when it comes to countertops, flooring, exterior wall cladding, outdoor kitchens and all of the applications in between. This course will help you become an expert on the production, application and innovative qualities related to Ultracompact Surfacing.

Sustainability design is an evolving process affecting People, Places and the Planet.

We recognize a significant impact on health and wellness of occupants in a new building or a renovation comes from specified products.

Designers of interiors may be responsible for carbon emissions at least equal to those associated with the structure and envelope of a building.

Our intent is to offer guidance to specifiers who are focused on choosing sustainable materials, with strategies to reduce embodied carbon and construction waste on projects.

Beyond carbon, elements to consider when addressing sustainability include evaluation of the design process, material composition considerations, green building standards and how materials can contribute, and the optimization of layouts and components though digitalization and automation.

The presentation includes a review of the sustainable/green properties and benefits of lightweight insulating concrete roof insulation systems, solvent-free and no VOC applications, and cool roof systems with a focus on how these systems can contribute to sustainable building envelope design.

This course delves into the often-overlooked legacies of female designers whose groundbreaking work and business acumen left an indelible mark on the fields of interior design and architecture. Unveil the stories of these unconventional trailblazers who, despite lacking public recognition in their time, laid the foundation for innovation and transformative change. A century later, we reflect on their enduring influence and profound impact, gaining insights into their contributions that continue to shape and inspire our contemporary professional landscape.

Join us for an in-depth exploration of how drywall grid systems can significantly enhance your design vision while promoting best practices through early collaboration with ceiling partners.

This course offers valuable insights into the benefits of pre-engineered drywall grids, addressing both the design and construction phases. Participants will discuss how to alleviate common pain points associated with framing flat and curved drywall grid. They will discuss the impact of Drywall Grid on embodied carbon and uncover solutions that improve safety, minimize labor and time, and support sustainability through efficient product use.

This course is designed for professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge of drywall grid systems and integrate innovative, sustainable practices into their projects.