In our Summer 2023 issue, you’re going to read a lot about facility design. How we design facilities is of the utmost importance to our industry. A strong understanding of what type of building you're designing is important to ensure the facility is able to perform properly and is suitable for the end-use. A poorly designed building will not be able to serve its users, nor will it be able to function effectively.

There are many things to consider when choosing the best design systems and products for your specific building type. There are systems specifically designed for facilities such as cold storage, data centers, healthcare, educational buildings and warehouses.

This issue highlights how updated technology in fire stations is essential to keeping communities safe. We also go over forward-thinking approaches to modern healthcare design, such as channel glass systems and insulation types. For educational buildings, these specific facilities have to perform, be efficient, and better the indoor air quality for its most vulnerable occupants—the students.

The built environment impacts the surrounding natural ecosystem, economy, occupant health, and productivity. Design techniques targeting energy efficiency and resilience can reduce or eliminate negative environmental impacts and improve existing unsustainable design and operational practices. For healthcare and educational facilities, these practices directly impact occupant health and are paramount.

When designing an assembly for these types of facilities, it is critical to consider all elements of high-performance design. Efficient design can lower a building’s operational costs, increase building values and protect internal assets. It also can improve employee productivity and satisfaction, and contribute to the building’s sustainability goals. Efficient buildings may enhance air, thermal, and acoustical quality, improve occupant comfort and health, and advance overall quality of life.

Architects are often searching for solutions for minimizing disruptions such as noise, odor, and operations for occupied spaces. In this issue, we cover the thought, approach and execution of these design ideas.

As mentioned, you’ll continuously read that facilities often contribute to occupant safety and well-being. If you’ve been a part of an interesting design or construction of a facility—we want to hear about it! Feel free to reach out directly to lewisl@bnpmedia.com.