From the Editor

What's New With You?
By Ellen Rogers

Go ahead, call me crazy, but I’m going to say it anyway: Now is as an exciting time as any to be in architecture. I know this may have you a bit perplexed; after all, construction is down and projects are being delayed. Do you have a lot of time on your hands and need something to do? Why not use some of that time to focus on learning more about glass? You probably already know this, but glass is an amazing material to work with—and the ways in which it can be used are evolving. With green building and LEED certification becoming more and more important, it might just be a good time to brush up on glass know-how. 

If you have a question about glass, but you’re not quite sure where to turn, look no further than right here. The Architects’ Guide to Glass & Metal now has its own glass expert who is ready and willing to answer your questions. Engineer Michael Bitterice worked in the glass industry for 40 years in many areas including glass research, technical services, marketing, sales, commercial construction, contract glazing and manufacturing. If you have a general question about glass, Michael will answer it. Simply e-mail your questions to info@glassguides.com and we will forward it on to Michael. And just like that, you will soon after know a little bit more about glass.

Speaking of websites, we’ve recently re-vamped ours at: www.glassguides.com. Here you can find the current industry news and headlines, information on industry events and also post questions and responses as part of the architects’ forum. The forum is a great way to network and communicate with your architectural peers—share experiences, post comments and learn from one another. 

While visiting the new website you can also sign up to receive our free bi-monthly e-newsletter (another great way to stay up-to-date and informed about the ever-changing glass industry).

We also want to hear about all of the exciting work you’ve done with glass. Is there a significant glazing project you’ve designed? Have you used glass in unique and innovative ways? Share your design stories by sending me an e-mail (erogers@glass.com). Projects may just be featured in a future edition. 

Ellen Rogers is the editor of the Architects’ Guide to Glass & Metal.