Research & Insight

AIA CES Courses

Structural Considerations for Fire-Rated Wood Construction

Steel 101: Fundamentals of Structural Steel in Safe and Sustainable Design

Structural Options for Student Housing

Articles

Introduction to 2021 IBC Updates

By
Chris Bratt

The 2021 IBC code changes are critical for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction(AEC) industry. As various jurisdictions adopt the latest version...

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Exploring Mass Timber: A Structural Engineering Perspective

By
Drew Morgan

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What Structural Engineers Want Architects to Know

By
Chris Hofheins

There is a famous African proverb that reads “It takes a village to raise a child.” It also takes a village to design and construct a building. The goal for all project team member...

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Structural Two Cents

Be Intentional with Openings

March 2026

In load-bearing cold-formed metal stud framing, windows, doors, and storefronts affect how loads are transferred through the wall. Thoughtful opening placement can reduce the need for heavier jambs, headers, and reinforcing.

Design-Build Delivery

February 2026

Design‑Build delivery is gaining popularity because it can accelerate schedules and spark innovation. Projects will be most successful when the team defines design intent and performance requirements up front, and when regular milestone reviews confirm that cost and constructability decisions reinforce the project’s goals.

Mass Timber & Fire Performance

January 2026

With the growing use of Mass Timber and its increasing acceptance in building codes, it has become a strong option for construction thanks to its inherent fire resistance and ability to leave structural elements exposed. However, special attention must be given to connection detailing—particularly fastener spacing and edge distances—to ensure strong and reliable performance.

CMU Rule of Thumb

December 2025

The required thickness of CMU walls can be estimated by dividing the unbraced wall height (in inches) by 30. Note that larger openings and high loading conditions may increase the required wall thickness.

Example: 19 foot tall wall -> 19 x 12 / 30= 7.6 inches -> Use 8" CMU

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