M|O Perspectives
Check back here for our thoughts on the latest developments in our industry.
After 30 Years of the ADA, Why Do Barriers Still Exist?
Sep 16, 2020
It’s been 30 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) passed. So why are design and construction errors still so prevalent in new and existing construction? The purpose of the law is to make sure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. So,...
Achieving ZNE: Case Studies in Building Design and Human Behavior
Sep 03, 2020
We’ve covered the latest mandates coming out of California that will guide Zero Net Energy (ZNE) building around the country. But what does ZNE look like in the real world? One common misconception is that different climate zones will impact ZNE applications. But so far that has not been the case...
“Solar Ready” Roofs: Zero Net Energy Starts On Top
Aug 14, 2020
The nationwide mandate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 — rolling out under the umbrella of Zero Net Energy (ZNE) — relies heavily on smart solar roofs. (Read our previous blog on ZNE and who’s leading this building revolution.) In 2013 the Building...
Still processing. Still learning. Still standing.
May 06, 2020
Like our banner on the fence of a Denver construction site, we (and likely everyone we all know) would have the current caption: “Maybe a little battered and bruised, but definitely still standing.” Wow, looking back now, who saw this—and to this degree—coming, just two months ago? Really, none of...
Reopening in a COVID-19 Environment
May 01, 2020
Among the many challenges facing real estate owners and operators today, perhaps the most relevant at the moment is how your building operations teams prepare to reopen properties, especially taking into account the complexity of higher density properties like office buildings and hotels. As...
COVID vs. HVAC: What Building Owners & Operators Should Know
Apr 09, 2020
While it may take years for scientists to uncover exactly how COVID-19 can spread through building systems, it’s better to be safe than sorry. We can all do our part to make sure our working and living environments are as safe and sterile as possible. The World Health Organization (WHO) tells us...
Successful Scope of Work: Understanding An Architect’s Approach
Mar 06, 2020
Construction project costs continue to rise. In an environment where every penny counts, developers need to count on architects to deliver the greatest value. And sometimes that means spending more upfront to avoid costly pitfalls later on. Architects are highly educated, experienced individuals....
California Leads the Zero Net Energy Building Revolution
Feb 18, 2020
As building consultancy professionals, we are vested in the future of Zero Net Energy (ZNE). California’s ZNE has a direct impact on the entire industry and involves building owners, operators, and managers, as well as builders. Historically where California leads, other states tend to follow. But...
Drip, drip, drip: Why you can’t disregard maintenance
Jan 15, 2020
“Pay me now or pay me later…” A commercial from the early 70s made this phrase popular. And when it comes to the maintenance of building systems, the adage is still true today. You can pay incrementally now to preserve the life of a structure — or pay big later when you least expect it. Buildings...
FCA vs. PCA: Know what you need. Know what you are buying.
Sep 27, 2019
We are often asked what the difference is between a facility condition assessment or FCA and a property condition assessment also known as a PCA. Some clients use the two interchangeably, yet they are two very different services. Simply put, a FCA is a financially focused review while a PCA is a...