Project Highlight: San Jose Cambrian Branch Library
February 1, 2007
Libraries now days are competing with large bookstores and the Cambrian Branch has the means to be a contender. San Jose’s new library, designed by Anderson Brulé Architects, opened in November. The LEED certified building is 28,000 sq. ft. and
Sound Myth-Understandings
February 1, 2007
A myth is a story handed down through history, often orally, that explains the unknown. In some cases, we have heard these myths so often we never question their veracity. The word itself comes from the Greek, “mythos” which meant
Home Theater Equation
February 1, 2007
Bigger is not always better, or at least that’s the case with televisions, plasma and LCD projection screens. This week, more big-screen TV’s are sold due to Super Bowl-mania than any other time of year. Some considerations: –How big is
TA Project Highlight: Mountain View Senior Center
December 1, 2006
Thorburn Associates was hired to design the technology infrastructure, that is, locations for all the loudspeakers, projection screens, future locations for equipment racks, conduits and power requirements during the design phase of the Mountain View Senior Center. The one story
In the Zone
December 1, 2006
You may not know that Thorburn Associates also designs presentation lighting. Lighting is essential to the success of a facility. Lighting, like sound, creates its own ambience and either blends harmoniously while providing needed support or literally stands out like
Students to Have Access to New Technology for Film, Music and Dance
October 1, 2006
The Performing Arts Facility on the De Anza Community College campus in San Jose, CA is under construction. The building is designed as a multi-use facility serving as classroom space, an auditorium, exhibition area and lobby. Established in 1967, De
Travel Advisory for Sound
October 1, 2006
Sound travels on vibrating air molecules. To reduce the sound that is transmitted from room to room, Acoustical Consultants often specify resilient assemblies. These assemblies are placed inside the wall or ceiling–attached to the building frame–to reduce sound vibrations. There
City Of Galt Police Department
August 1, 2006
Galt’s first police department was formed when the City incorporated in 1946. After several moves, the department’s newest facility fills over 21,500 square feet. The City of Galt’s Police Department facility is newly constructed, but the building was actually in
Take a Walk on the Wild Side- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Wildlife Education Center
April 1, 2006
The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission moved into their new building this past September. The 5-story structure on the University of North Carolina campus in Raleigh brings together previously scattered Commission departments. Amid the usual offices and administrative areas is
The Plaza Apartments – Low Income doesn’t mean Low Design Standard
February 1, 2006
The Plaza Apartments, located in San Francisco, CA has sharp lines and a colorful facade that boasts solar panels, recycled building materials, bamboo floors, paneling made with recycled wood products and plenty of natural light and ventilation. Designed by Leddy