81% of construction pros say they would consider leaving their current role

Culture, benefits and career growth outweighed salary as a motivator for professionals staying in or leaving their current positions, according to Hays US.

Denver construction permit values soar past $3B

Permitted construction activity in 2017 is set to surpass 2016's full-year value of $3.65 billion.

University of Oregon reveals plans for $1B science, research facility

The 160,000-square-foot project will be completed in phases, the first of which will be a $225 million set of buildings connected by a glass terrace.

NY Scaffold Law can add millions of dollars to projects

Sixteen out of the 30 largest settlements in New York in 2012 involved the Scaffold Law, the highest being $15 million.

$2B NYC Waldorf Astoria overhaul ready for November start

AECOM Tishman will oversee the three-year conversion, which includes transforming 1,000 rooms into condominiums.

Construction workers among most susceptible to opioid abuse

Physical wear and tear from work on the job site, in addition to a male-dominated workforce has put illicit drug use in the industry up to 15.1%. 

From warehouse to worksite: 5 key takeaways from the Offsite Construction Expo

With tight deadlines and limited resources, a growing number of contractors are turning to the delivery method to stay ahead of their competitors.

Why people are choosing to invest in their furniture

Hannah Evans-Scott will present King Living’s range of luxurious contemporary furniture at HOME’s new event HOME Edit. We sat down to talk with her about their design legacy Why people are choosing to invest in their furniture As a leader in design, King Living is constantly looking for innovative ways to integrate technology and style. Showroom Manager […]

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ABC: Q3 growth in GDP is helping maintain construction industry pace

The increase in nonresidential fixed investment reflected greater investment in equipment and intellectual property, rather than in structures.

Saudi Arabia announces $500B plan to build a new megacity

Leaders are talking with global companies like Amazon and Alibaba to develop technologies for the new city, which could span more than 10,000 square miles.

Report: Paving the way for a new salary threshold, DOL will appeal overtime injunction

The Department of Labor will reportedly appeal the order enjoining the Obama-era regulations today.

Report: White House considers 7-cent federal gas tax hike to fund infrastructure

The tax feeds the Highway Trust Fund, which could be completely tapped in the next decade without an increase in or new source of funding.

American Dream Miami construction pushed back another year

The project's billing as an "entertainment destination" has triggered issues with land use and zoning, which developers hope to resolve by the year's end.

Chemical, plastics manufacturer plans new $2B Gulf Coast plant

In addition to this latest project, the company also has a $2.4 billion facility in Houston and a tertiary butyl alcohol refinery in Pasadena, TX, planned to start construction.

Samsung’s new design-led range will make you want to show off your TV

With its new innovative range of QLED televisions, Samsung has created designs that are too good to hide away in the corner  Samsung’s new design-led range will make you want to show off your TV For design-conscious home owners, choosing a TV used to mean compromise. Select a large-screen with best-picture quality, but disrupt the […]

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Business Intelligence for Construction Firms: Best Construction BI Tools

Last week our topic was field data collecting for construction firms, and we gave you some practical advice for how to make that happen. In case you didn’t read that post, which you really should, here’s the breakdown: in order…

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FMI: Many construction firms don't embrace necessary level of workforce development

Those that do devote resources into performance management and robust development cultures tend to have the highest employee retention, the report found.

CA adopts tougher reinforcing steel and post-tensioning safety standards

California will implement rules used by the Iron Workers International (IW) union. The new standards should go into effect in 2018 after a series of educational events for contractors and ironworkers.

Developers break ground on Phoenix mixed-use high rise

The LINK PHX is just the first tower in a planned downtown development of three residential high-rises.

TX developers plan office high-rise as part of $1B Plano development

The project is the first in a five-building, 2.5-million-square-foot office park development that will be part of the 122-acre Heritage complex.

Alex Walls shares her favourite Kiwi-designed products you need to know

Supporting Kiwi-designed products has never been so easy – or so inspiring. This bedroom scheme by Alex Walls showcases some of our finest local homewares Alex Walls shares her favourite Kiwi-designed products you need to know For such a small country at the bottom of the world, the talent and creativity that comes out of […]

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This sprawling clifftop section in Taranaki has an impeccable formal garden

A formal planting scheme and crisp, groomed lawns frame some jaw-dropping ocean views at Tapuae Country Estate in Taranaki This sprawling clifftop section in Taranaki has an impeccable formal garden Some people imagine sea views and coastal walks for their dream lifestyle property. Others prefer green farmland with bush trails and inland waterways. Brent and […]

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How to stop your collections from looking like clutter

Your collection of treasured knick-knacks can easily slip into the realm of clutter. Here are some quick tips to help you showcase your special pieces How to stop your collections from looking like clutter Look for iconic, locally made pieces and everyday items that can easily be upcycled to add vintage flair to your home. […]

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5 things you need to remember when decorating your home

Good interior design is equal parts passion and knowledge. Alex Fulton shares five top things you need to create a great room 5 things you need to remember when decorating your home  There’s nothing more exciting than getting your own space to design and plan for. Design is about what feels good for the person […]

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A concrete cottage in Auckland is softened with mid-century vibes

 Renovating a central Auckland cottage and transforming its concrete backyard into a mid-century oasis proved to be a six-year labour of love for one family A concrete cottage in Auckland is softened with mid-century vibes Who lives here? Andre Van Wonderen, 34 (project manager), Jolene Van Wonderen, 35 (part-time teacher aide and graphic designer), Willem, […]

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From P3s to 'invisible collection': How state and local agencies are financing fixes to US infrastructure

As the nation's infrastructure continues to crumble, governments at all levels are grappling with how best to fund those public goods.

MI labor unions start construction on worker training center

The center will allow carpenters and millwrights to earn practical experience in single-family, commercial construction and infrastructure. 

Enclosed $525M shopping center under construction in CT

Located about 50 miles north of New York City, the center could be one of the last such malls ever constructed in the U.S.

VA authority green-lights $410M High Rise Bridge addition

The project, which includes widening I-64 from four to six lanes, is part of a state-wide effort to relieve congestion on its highways and bridges.

EPA limiting review of potentially toxic chemicals

This departure from what President Obama proposed during his terms will exclude from review "millions of tons" of asbestos-containing material.

National data center company to build new facility in Allen, TX

When complete, the 1-million-square foot, 100-megawatt project spread over three buildings will be one of the biggest in North Texas.

IA turns gathered bridge data into visualization tool

The interactive map displays the conditions of each of the state's 24,140 structures and could help stakeholders petition for necessary repairs.

Is the renewed push for high-speed maglev trains in the US realistic?

America has flirted with plans for magnetic levitation trains for decades, but they haven't yet come to fruition. Now, some developers think cities are ready.

World's first 3-D printed concrete bridge opens to public

Intended for cyclists, it took three months to print out the 26-foot-long bridge's approximately 800 layers of reinforced, pre-stressed concrete material.

Could organic waste be used for construction materials?

Global engineering firm Arup found repurposing such waste could help reduce the more than 534 million tons of waste the construction industry produces each year.

VA authority green-lights $410M High Rise Bridge addition

The project, which includes widening I-64 from four to six lanes, is part of a state-wide effort to relieve congestion on its highways and bridges.

National data center company to build new facility in Allen, TX

The 1-million-square foot, 100-megawatt project will be spread over three buildings, which will use waterless cooling technology to reduce the environmental impact.

From P3s to 'invisible collection': How state and local agencies are financing fixes to US infrastructure

As the nation's infrastructure continues to crumble, governments at all levels are grappling with how best to fund those public goods.

MI labor unions start construction on worker training center

The 67,000-square-foot training center will allow carpenters and millwrights to earn practical experience in single-family, commercial construction and infrastructure. 

Enclosed $525M shopping center under construction in CT

Located about 50 miles north of New York City, the mall could be one of the last such malls ever constructed in the U.S.

EPA limiting review of potentially toxic chemicals

This departure from what President Obama proposed during his terms will exclude from review "millions of tons" of asbestos-containing material that has been put in place between 1970 and 2016.

Inside expert homestager Dinah Malyon’s Newmarket home

According to Dinah Malyon the key to successful interior is using pieces that work together to create a story. We step inside her home to see how she does it Inside expert homestager Dinah Malyon’s Newmarket home If you’ve recently admired the chic homestaging in a house that’s up for sale, then chances are it’s been […]

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Kid’s bedroom ideas: How to create a dreamy, magical space

Designing a child’s room is a chance to let the imagination run free – yours and theirs. Here’s a dreamy, magical space to get you inspired Kid’s bedroom ideas: How to create a dreamy, magical space Children’s bedrooms are one place in the house where interior-design rules can be thrown out the window. The key […]

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Could organic waste be used for construction materials?

Global engineering firm Arup found that using such waste for building materials would help reduce the more than 534 million tons of waste the construction industry produces each year.

World's first 3-D printed concrete bridge opens to public

Intended for cyclists, the 26-foot-long bridge took three months to print out its approximately 800 layers of reinforced, pre-stressed concrete material.

Caltrans approves expediting more than $3B in road projects

This latest round of state "fix it first" projects is part of the $52 billion infrastructure bill the California legislature passed earlier this year.

Caltrans approves expediting more than $3 billion in road projects

This latest round of state "fix it first" projects is part of the $52 billion infrastructure bill the California legislature passed earlier this year.

Report: International sustainable materials market to reach $187B by 2026

The increased use of green materials is being driven by trades such as insulation, roofing, framing, exterior siding and interior finishes across most sectors.

Minneapolis home to nation's best infrastructure

Realtor.com considered factors like the conditions of roads and bridges, transit quality, airport customer satisfaction, bicycle friendliness and per capita spending on various infrastructure and public assets.

Boston's Green Line bids confirm $1.3B design-build budget

Two years after cost overruns nearly derailed the project, officials say they are now confident the project can be completed with the funding available to it.

Realtor.com: Minneapolis has nation's best infrastructure

Realtor.com considered factors like the conditions of roads and bridges, transit quality, airport customer satisfaction, bicycle friendliness and per capita spending on various infrastructure and public assets.

Realtor.com: Minneapolis has best infrastructure in U.S.

Realtor.com considered factors like the conditions of roads and bridges, transit quality, airport customer satisfaction, bicycle friendliness and per capita spending on various infrastructure and public assets.

Step into the future as Dulux reveals its 2018 colour trends

Inspired by global trends, Dulux reveals four curated colour palettes in their 2018 forecast that are set to inspire New Zealand interiors  Dulux reveals its 2018 colour trends  It’s possible that the annual Milan Design Week has the single-biggest effect on home furnishing around the world over the following year. Designers producing furniture, lighting, ceramics […]

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8 ways to update a rented kitchen

There is often not much we can do about a neglected rental kitchen – not without landlord permission, which depending on your situation, can range from difficult to near-impossible to get. However, fear not, as we have rounded up some non-permanent solutions that will help make a positive impact on your kitchen Finding a great home to rent […]

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Amazon HQ2 grabs 238 bids

Following the announcement, cities scrambled to pull together incentive packages and tout their advantages as a second base, though not everyone was enamored by the opportunity.

IA turns gathered bridge data into visualization tool

The interactive map displays each of the state's 24,140 structure's conditions and could help stakeholders petition for necessary repairs.

VA plans $925M hospital in Louisville, KY

The finished project, which still requires congressional approval for construction funds, will replace a facility from the 1950s on a 35-acre site east of downtown.

Is the renewed push for high-speed maglev trains in the US realistic?

America has flirted with plans for magnetic levitation trains for decades, but they haven't yet come to fruition. Now, some developers think cities are ready.

VA plans $925M hospital in KY

The finished project, which still requires congressional approval for construction funds, will replace a facility from the 1950s on a 35-acre site east of Louisville.

How to keep workers safe in the face of natural disasters

Workers may not be in a natural threat's direct line of fire, but some job sites may still need to take extra precautions to ensure their employees' safety.

Musk gets conditional OK to dig MD hyperloop tunnel

Much remains unknown about the Baltimore to Washington, DC, tunnel, including what the requirements are for final approval.

CA bullet train authority postpones critical $30M contract award

Another bidder lodged a protest over the award of the operation contract for the bullet train's inaugural line.

AIA publishes amended architect scope contract documents

The architect scope documents were updated to reflect the duties architects take on beyond providing architectural services.

Construction jobs increase in 35 states, Washington

Associated General Contractors of America officials said the numbers would have been higher in many parts of the U.S. if more qualified workers were available.

OSHA's silica rule now fully enforced

The agency has released interim enforcement guidelines for the rule while its final compliance directive moves through the review process.

Is this autonomous tractor the future of construction?

Built Robotics is testing a self-driving vehicle that can excavate holes for building foundations at the same rate as its human counterparts — and up to 24 hours per day.

Raiders plan groundbreaking date for $2B Las Vegas stadium

The team is limited to pre-construction work, however, until they have finalized development agreements with the Las Vegas Stadium Authority and Clark County.

Developers dub 45-acre Boston mixed-use campus 'Cambridge Crossing'

The 45-acre campus will include a park, five office buildings, and 2,400 condominiums and apartments.

Oroville Dam spillway repair costs jump to $500M

The firm overseeing the restoration discovered the work required digging deeper than anticipated to reach bedrock, in addition to pouring double the concrete.

Illinois Innovation Network anchors two Chicago developments

The projects will add new research and development space to the city's downtown, with the goal of helping Illinois become an innovation hub.

OSHA's silica rule now fully enforced

The agency has released interim enforcement guidelines for the rule while its final compliance directive moves through the review process.

Renovation rookies transform a tired cottage on a shoestring budget

A run-down 1950s cottage nestled beside a quiet West Auckland golf course was the perfect project for two budding DIYers Meet and greet Kristina Rapley, YHG deputy editor and editor of Taste and Ashton Lines-Sherwood, 30 national sales manager, plus Blue the chocolate Labrador and Bell Bells the Burmese cat. Renovation rookies transform a tired […]

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Easy ways to bring Scandi style into your home

A Scandi approach – quiet colours, clean, simple design and lots of texture – puts the spotlight on carefully chosen pieces Who lives here? Adam Bannister (teacher), Dawn Bannister (mental health manager and home-design Instagrammer As Eliza Slept), Ollie and Eliza. Scandi style tips Light is the most important factor in a Scandi-style home. If your […]

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The renovation of this Wellington villa didn’t go completely to plan

After many setbacks, u-turns and surprises, the owners of this Wellington villa share how their initial renovation idea didn’t quite go to plan Meet and greet Jessica Godfrey, general manager of Acme Cups, Sven Wiig, freelance art director, and Otto, 9. The renovation of this Wellington villa didn’t go completely to plan They say good […]

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Construction jobs increase in 35 states, Washington

Associated General Contractors of America officials said the numbers would have been higher in many parts of the U.S. if more qualified workers were available.

Illinois Innovation Network anchors two Chicago developments

The projects will add new research and development space to the city's downtown, with the goal of helping Illinois become an innovation hub.

Is this autonomous tractor the future of construction?

Built Robotics is testing an autonomous track loader that can excavate holes for building foundations at the same rate as its human counterparts — and up to 24 hours per day.

Oroville Dam spillway repair costs jump to $500M

The firm overseeing the restoration discovered the work required digging deeper than anticipated to reach bedrock, in addition to pouring double the concrete.

Innovation anchors two Chicago developments

The Related Midwest project, along with a collaboration between the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois, will add new research and development space to downtown.

Raiders plan groundbreaking date for $2B Las Vegas stadium

The team is limited to pre-construction work, however, until they have finalized development agreements with the Las Vegas Stadium Authority and Clark County.

Construction jobs increase in 35 states, DC

Associated General Contractors of America officials said the numbers would have been higher in many parts of the U.S. if more qualified workers were available.

Developers dub 45-acre Boston mixed-use campus 'Cambridge Crossing'

The 45-acre campus will include a park, five office buildings, and 2,400 condominiums and apartments.

Oroville Dam spillway repair costs skyrocket to $500M

The firm overseeing the restoration discovered the work required digging deeper than anticipated to reach bedrock, in addition to pouring double the concrete.   

Business Intelligence for Construction Firms: Field Data Collecting

Last week, we talked about where the data for construction business intelligence comes from. We landed on the idea that it naturally comes from the construction field- the only problem was that this was a notoriously difficult place to get…

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How to grow and arrange your own wildflowers

Wildflowers will easily bloom anywhere making them the perfect, low-effort way to add a burst of colour to your home. Here are some tips on how to grow and arrange them How to grow and arrange your own wildflowers You don’t need a big country garden to grow wildflowers – they’ll blossom happily in a small courtyard […]

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A bland bathroom is given a fresh new look for under $500

The bathroom of this home was once a bland, beige box until a roll of statement wall paper and new accessories helped to brighten its look A bland bathroom is given a fresh new look for under $500 Who lives here? Audra and Grant O’Donoghue, Abby, 8, and Isaac, 5, plus Karen the cat. What […]

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A beginner’s guide to creating your own outdoor kitchen

NZ Flower and Garden Show 2017 exhibitors share their expert tips on how to create the perfect outdoor kitchen for summer A beginner’s guide to creating your own outdoor kitchen Nothing says summertime quite like cooking outside and dining al fresco. Firing up the barbie on a warm summer night is somewhat of a Kiwi […]

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Furniture designer Paul Roest’s Kaukapakapa home and studio

A keen eye for potential has seen Paul Roest’s Industrial Design NZ take forgotten furniture and reclaimed timber from trash to treasure Paul Roest’s Industrial Design NZ You’ve probably seen some of Paul Roest’s wood creations without realising it. He’s crafted tables, chairs, bar leaners, entertainment units, shelving, bedside tables and office furniture for many […]

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A sculpture garden and winery opens just outside of Matakana

Over a decade in the making, Matakana’s Sculptureum is an art, food and wine experience developed by Anthony and Sandra Grant  A sculpture garden and winery opens just outside of Matakana Near Matakana, north of Auckland, an art park more than 12 years in the making is ready to inspire.  Sculptureum sprawls over 10 hectares with three […]

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Peek inside the home of Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall

Prince Charles hosted the Spanish Royals in his living room at Clarence House giving us a rare glimpse into his family home A rare peek inside the home of Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall Stepping up his official duties, heir to the throne Prince Charles hosted King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain for afternoon tea […]

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Construction of border wall prototypes nears completion

The Trump administration has not revealed how many winners it will tap to build the proposed full-scale wall or whether the president will weigh in on the decision.

White House set to ease drone regulations

A soon-to-be-released program could allow local communities to independently oversee drones flying below 200 feet, sources told The Wall Street Journal.

Using LEED in transportation projects can lead to savings

In addition to better overall cost-savings, LEED-certified buildings see a higher return on investment, according to a U.S. Green Building Council report.

Dodge: September construction starts jump 14%

The nonresidential sector, which spiked 37% month over month, was the primary driver behind the rebound.

ABC: Q2 construction backlog falls 4.1%

The organization called the backlog indicator's slight drop in the second quarter "a return to Earth" from Q1's first-ever growth across all categories.

Concrete multifamily buildings less expensive to insure than wood-framed

Resilience to fire and the relatively longer life of concrete buildings compared to wood likely accounted for the difference in insurance rates.

Reagan National Airport readies for construction of $163.5M security area

The project is part of a larger, $245 million, 28-lane security upgrade at the airport, just one phase of a $1 billion overhaul.

Amazon HQ2 bids are in. Who will win?

It's now up to Jeff Bezos to decide where his second city will be.

Technology advancements that keep you connected to your driver

Connectivity in construction vehicles can help fleet managers remedy small issues before they become major problems.

Dallas developer proposes 'smart district' with city's tallest building

The development surrounding the landmark skyscraper could also be in the running for Amazon's new HQ2.

20 seriously stylish dog beds for the discerning pet

From architectural lines to plush materials this collection shows us there are more to dog beds than a rolled-up old blanket 20 seriously stylish dog beds for the discerning pet This collection of seriously stylish dog beds prove you don’t have to sacrifice your decor for your dog. When it comes to doggie decor there […]

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Kourtney Kardashian’s dreamy Tuscan-style home

Kourtney Kardashian hired interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard to help curate her 11,500-square-foot Tuscan-style home in Calabasas, California, and the results are gorgeous! The lowdown on Kourtney’s House Where: Calabasas, California, USA Style: Mediterranean revival Decor: Restrained and modern Kendall Jenner’s $6.5 million Los Angeles Home Where: Los Angeles, USA Style: Modern classic Key features: Three storey, six […]

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Tireless attention to detail resulted in this amazing villa transformation

A year-long renovation transformed this traditional Mt Eden villa into a contemporary and luxurious bachelor pad. Story by Debbie Harrison  Q&A with homeowner Adam Thomson and interior designer Katie Scott How did your budget compare to your actual spend? Adam: It blew out and cost double what I’d initially expected. Katie: Villas can be the […]

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Construction of border wall prototypes nears completion

The Trump administration has not revealed how many winners it will tap to build the proposed full-scale wall or whether the president will weigh in on the decision.

White House set to ease drone regulations

A soon-to-be-released program could allow local communities to independently oversee drones flying below 200 feet, sources told The Wall Street Journal.

Using LEED in transportation projects can lead to savings

In addition to better overall cost-savings, LEED-certified buildings see a higher return on investment, according to a new report from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Dodge: September construction starts jump 14%

The nonresidential sector, which spiked 37% month over month, was the primary driver behind the rebound.

ABC: Q2 construction backlog falls 4.1% to 8.6 months

ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu called the backlog indicator's slight drop in the second quarter "a return to Earth" from Q1's first-ever growth across all categories.

ABC: Q2 construction backlog falls 4.1%

The organization called the backlog indicator's slight drop in the second quarter "a return to Earth" from Q1's first-ever growth across all categories.

Report: Concrete multifamily buildings cheaper to insure than wood-framed

Resilience to fire and the relatively longer life of concrete buildings compared to wood made them less expensive to insure. 

Concrete multifamily buildings less expensive to insure than wood-framed

Resilience to fire and the relatively longer life of concrete buildings compared to wood likely accounted for the difference in insurance rates.

Reagan National Airport readying for construction of $163.5 million security area

The project is part of a larger, $245 million, 28-lane security upgrade at the airport, just one phase of a $1 billion overhaul.

Reagan National Airport readies for construction of $163.5M security area

The project is part of a larger, $245 million, 28-lane security upgrade at the airport, just one phase of a $1 billion overhaul.

Amazon HQ2 bids are in. Who will win?

It's now up to Jeff Bezos to decide where his second city will be.

An upcycled home on a windswept Wairarapa ridgeline

An upcycled home on a windswept Wairarapa ridgeline It’s a long drive from Wellington to the home of Ross Stevens, an industrial designer and a lecturer in future studies at Victoria University of Wellington. Off State Highway Two, a narrow road winds southward through the brown, parched fields of the Wairarapa Valley over an endless […]

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A beach home for the ages

  Rather a long time ago, the owner of this house on Auckland’s Takapuna Beach tried to buy the section from its elderly owner. She wouldn’t sell. Twenty years later, walking along the beach one morning, he saw the place up for sale and wasted no time in securing it. You can understand his enthusiasm. It’s […]

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Nashville mayor floats $5.2B transit and infrastructure plan

The plan would add 26 miles of light rail, four rapid bus routes and a tunnel under the Music City's downtown to support light-rail service.

Planning underway for Brooklyn's second tallest building

The 720-foot-tall, 68-story skyscraper will feature 458 apartments, indoor and outdoor recreation and entertainment spaces, and retail space.

Technology advancements that keep you connected to your driver

Connectivity in construction vehicles can help fleet managers remedy small issues before they become major problems.

Dallas developer proposes 'smart district' with city's tallest building

The development surrounding the landmark skyscraper could also be in the running for Amazon's new HQ2.

PA health care system plans $700M expansion

In addition to a 160-bed facility, Highmark said it will also build four smaller neighborhood hospitals focused on community care.

Update: What's happening with 7 of the most popular US sports venue projects

There is an arena, ballpark or stadium in the works for whatever one's favorite pastime might be.

Nashville mayor proposes $5.2B transit and infrastructure plan

The plan would add 26 miles of light rail, four rapid bus routes and a tunnel under downtown Nashville that would allow the light-rail service to run north and south through the city. 

Planning under way for Brooklyn's second tallest building

The 720-foot-tall, 68-story skyscraper will feature 458 apartments, indoor and outdoor recreation and entertainment spaces, as well as a retail component in the tower's base.

Skyward can now grant instant access to airspace for commercial drone operators

That permission, given through the FAA, will commence this fall, starting with airports in Cincinnati; Reno, NV; San Jose, CA; and Lincoln, NE.

Industry Pulse: The latest construction data and statistics

This data hub looks at five construction and housing reports, all in one place.

Self-driving cars could ease congestion, add to urban sprawl

Smoother driving patterns and steadier speeds would reduce traffic time and pollution, despite putting more vehicles on the road.

Civic groups to Amazon: 'Pay your fair share' in the city you choose

In an open letter to Amazon, representatives from 85 organizations provided requests for jobs, transparency and community-building in the future HQ2 city. 

Amazon's time has come: what you need to know about the HQ2 bid deadline

We take a look at our latest coverage on the search for Amazon's second North American headquarters ahead of the deadline for cities to bid on the project.

OSHA fines NJ contractor $191K for scaffold safety violations

The owner of the company, DH Construction, has another construction company, which was cited for similar violations in 2014.

Construction underway on Seattle skyscraper with rebar-free core

The mixed-use tower will use a coupled steel-plate composite shear wall in which cross-tied plates are filled with concrete to increase seismic resistance.

Update: What's happening with 7 of the most popular US sports venue projects

There is an arena, ballpark or stadium in the works for whatever one's favorite pastime might be.

Nashville mayor proposes $5.2B transit and infrastructure plan

The plan would add 26 miles of light rail, four rapid bus routes and a tunnel under downtown Nashville that would allow the light-rail service to run north and south through the city. 

Planning under way for Brooklyn's second tallest building

The 720-foot-tall, 68-story skyscraper will feature 458 apartments, indoor and outdoor recreation and entertainment spaces, as well as a retail component in the tower's base.

Skyward can now grant instant access to airspace for commercial drone operators

That permission, given through the FAA, will commence this fall, starting with airports in Cincinnati; Reno, NV; San Jose, CA; and Lincoln, NE.

Self-driving cars could ease congestion, add to urban sprawl

Smoother driving patterns and steadier speeds would reduce traffic time and pollution, despite putting more vehicles on the road.

University researchers engineer seismic-resistant concrete

Similar to steel's molecular make-up, walls coated with the material stood up to simulations reaching a 9.1 magnitude on the Richter scale.

Industry Pulse: The latest construction data and statistics

This data hub looks at five construction and housing reports, all in one place.

OSHA fines NJ contractor $191K for scaffold safety violations

The owner of the company, DH Construction, has another construction company, which was cited for similar violations in 2014.

OSHA cites, fines NJ contractor $191K for scaffold safety violations

Incorrectly assembled or misused scaffolding equipment can create fall hazards as dangerous as those faced by roofers or ironworkers.

Using Construction Management Software to Document and Deal with Weather Delays

Construction companies often get sued over delay claims, and weather is one of the most common causes of those delays. Severe weather events can also increase costs and endanger the lives of your workers. It’s just something you have to…

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Construction underway on Seattle skyscraper with rebar-free core

The general contractor will first produce mock-ups of the core to confirm design details then, if all goes to plan, developers expect to top out construction in mid-2019.

WA convention center officials agree to $83M benefit package as part of $1.6B expansion

The Seattle City Council and the Design Commission must still give their final approval to the project, which Seattle Mayor Tim Burgess expects to pass next year.

Civic groups to Amazon: 'Pay your fair share' in the city you choose

In an open letter to Amazon, representatives from 85 organizations provided requests for jobs, transparency and community-building in the future HQ2 city. 

Architecture billings change course in September

Last month marks the first time since January that demand for design services has dipped below positive levels.

Amazon's time has come: what you need to know about the HQ2 bid deadline

We take a look at our latest coverage on the search for Amazon's second North American headquarters ahead of the company's deadline for cities to bid on the project.

Amazon's time is up: what you need to know about the HQ2 bid deadline

We take a look at our latest coverage on the search for Amazon's second North American headquarters ahead of the company's deadline for cities to bid on the project.

NYC mayor signs controversial worker training bill

Union members who have completed an apprenticeship program are exempt from the training requirement, as are any other workers who have completed equivalent training.

The owner of this Westmere home is an expert on eclectic style

Natalie Parke, of design consultancy Dessein Parke, says the key to eclectic style is all about balance. We step inside her Westmere home to see her theory in action The owner of this Westmere home is an expert on eclectic style “It’s a bit of a weird house, as we don’t have open-plan living. We […]

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A galley style kitchen in Cambridge breaks away from open plan living

The galley design of this kitchen in Cambridge works separately to indoor living and seamlessly with an outdoor courtyard A galley style kitchen in Cambridge breaks away from open plan living Architect: Christopher Beer Location: Cambridge, Waikato Brief: Functionality foremost, and a kitchen that sits within the home as a crafted, considered object. The clients […]

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A 130-year-old cottage is ready for holidaymakers after a thoughtful reno

After an extensive and thoughtful interior renovation, this one-of-a-kind, 130-year-old cottage now ready to be enjoyed by visitors to Naseby A 130-year-old cottage is ready for holidaymakers after a thoughtful reno Who owns the home? Paul O’Sullivan, a medical science liaison, and Craig Sherson, who works for PHD, a manufacturer of transportable huts. Where is the […]

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Construction contracts: Everything you need to know

We rounded up our articles examining the complex legal landscape of the industry.

Business Intelligence for Construction Firms: Starting from the Bottom

Business intelligence matters for construction firms, and you need to be doing it. We’re here to teach you how. Last week, we introduced the idea of business intelligence for construction firms in a post. In there, we talked about how…

The post Business Intelligence for Construction Firms: Starting from the Bottom appeared first on Raken Daily Reporting for Contractors.

WV voters approve road bond amendment for $3B infrastructure program

The road bond program could provide as much as $2.6 billion for state infrastructure repairs.

Feds OK 2 new natural gas pipelines along East Coast

Proponents say the pipelines will spur economic development while critics counter the pipelines will harm the environment.

Anthem building large health IT hub in Atlanta

The 21-story building will house some 3,000 multidisciplinary IT professionals, with construction expected to finish in 2020.

WV voters approve road bond constitutional amendment for $3B infrastructure program

The road bond program could provide as much as $2.6 billion for state infrastructure repairs.

Feds OK 2 new natural gas pipelines along U.S. east coast

Proponents say these pipelines will spur economic development while critics protest the pipelines will threaten the environment.

What construction companies should know about post-disaster FEMA contracting

Contractors considering registering with FEMA for disaster recovery work may want to explore other options.

Autodesk invests in Project Frog to bolster prefab market

The prefabrication market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, with this collaboration signaling a step toward streamlining the market end-to-end.

U.S. hotel construction up nearly 6% year over year

Despite overall growth, hotel construction saw decreases in half of the busiest markets, including where Hurricane Harvey touched, that hotel research company STR included in its September 2017 pipeline report.

State and federal officials break ground on $1.5B Portal North Bridge in NJ

The bridge is replacing a 110-year-old structure and is just one project in the Amtrak-led Gateway Program, which seeks to improve rail service along the Northeast Corridor.

Win $5000 with the Resene Colour Home Awards: Entries now open

Did you use Resene paints to colour your home? You could win $5000! Enter now!  What we are looking for  Clever interior colour schemes Great use of colour in bedrooms Exciting kids’ rooms Amazing paint projects & features Interesting use of exterior colour Enter now Five finalists will appear in Your Home and Garden, one […]

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4 ways to trick your small bathroom into feeling bigger

A luxurious bathroom is possible even if you have limited room. Here are stylish ways to create the illusion of space in your little bathroom 4 ways to trick your small bathroom into feeling bigger 1. Add mirrors Nothing else creates a feeling of never-ending space like a mirror. Glass doors and decor can also ‘stretch’ […]

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Tolls on $4B Tappan Zee Bridge replacement could double to pay for construction costs

The projected figure is still almost $5 less than the toll on the Hudson River's George Washington Bridge, making the replacement a relative bargain.

The "World's Best Roof®" goes platinum

As the demand for environmentally conscious planning and construction grows, the need for manufacturers to provide sustainable products and services is more important than ever. 

New 64-story mixed-use skyscraper planned for Los Angeles

Slated to begin construction in 2019, the mixed-use development will include 781 residential units and 6,700 square feet of retail space.

Vantage Data centers building $1B facility in Ashburn, VA

Ashburn, VA, has one of the biggest clusters of data centers in the world.

Denver mayor resists green roof measure

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock maintains the green roof legislation is not flexible enough and would increase roof installation and maintenance costs.

Two new mixed-use Miami skyscrapers win approval from city review board

The developments would add more than 70,000 square feet of office space, alongside residential and retail space to the city's downtown district.

This week in construction

We're looking at FEMA contracts, the biggest stadium projects underway today, housing starts and more of the latest construction data.

Construction material prices continue to climb in September

Material prices rose at three times the rate of inflation on a year-over-year basis as strong construction activity drives demand.

Hyperloop One rebrands after Virgin investment

The company will now push for a global presence with the backing of Virgin Group founder Richard Branson.

Amazon's HQ2 city could already be home to one of its R&D hubs

Approximately one-quarter of the company's employees work in research and development hubs around the U.S.

Report: Rural public transit ridership is on the rise

The American Public Transportation Association called on Congress to include these areas in any infrastructure initiative and to fully fund the FAST Act.

Rural public transit ridership up 7.8% from 2007 to 2015

The disabled in rural areas and small towns take almost 50% more public transit trips than those without disabilities.

$1B expansion starts at TN manufacturing campus

Upon completion in January 2019, Denso's manufacturing facility will encompass 3.5 million square feet.

CoreLogic: $65M of residential property at risk from CA wildfires

Up to 200,000 homes are at risk of damage from the fires currently affecting communities just north of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Report: US commercial real estate to grow through 2019

There is little chance of a surge in growth, but the market could be in store for its longest period of expansion yet, according to the Urban Land Institute.

$700M supertall tower in the works for Chicago

If approved and built, the 76-story, luxury residential high-rise would be the sixth-tallest building in Chicago.

Report: US commercial real estate growth to continue through 2019

There is little chance of a surge in growth, but the market could be in store for its longest period of expansion ever, according to the Urban Land Institute.

New $700M supertall residential tower in the works for Chicago

If approved and built, the 76-story tower would be the sixth tallest building in Chicago.

6 KY banks establish $150M P3 infrastructure fund

Commonwealth Infrastructure Fund officials said that access to financing will allow critical infrastructure projects to move forward. 

What to consider before splitting up a subcontractor's scope of work

Sharing a portion of the project among more than one company requires a detailed contract and the spirit of cooperation.

Various Types Of Countertops And Vanities

Kitchens and bathrooms are perhaps the most used parts of the house. It feels good when you see these two rooms perfectly designed and styled. The way to do this is to find the perfect countertop for your kitchen and the perfect vanity for your bathroom.

A kitchen's countertop can be the most important point of the room in your house. This is where you cook your foods and even used for socializing. In fact, the kitchen countertop is the heart of the house. So it is important that the countertops of your kitchen are useful and long-lasting. There are different types of countertop to choose from, depending on the ambience of the home and the motif of the design of the whole house.

One of the toughest usual equipment that you can use in your kitchen countertop is granite. Granite is becoming a progressively more well-liked choice as a kitchen countertop because of its hardness. Granite is commonly solid for scratches. Granite resists heat. Hot pots can’t ruin your countertops. There are also several colors to choose from like ruby red, jet black and verdant green. This stone has a pattern of stripes speckles or splotches.

Quartzite is also a natural substance made of stone that is well known as a kitchen countertop. This material is very thick and hard. Like granite, heat from pots can’t damage your Quartzite countertop. It doesn’t require high maintenance.

Concrete would create an attractive textile as a kitchen countertop and this make is very affordable. It is a well known material that designers recommend to homeowners. Concrete countertop service providers offer their own exclusive colors. Cement will be different in brands of pigments, stains, and aggregate colors, so concrete countertops will always be unique.

Laminate countertop is also the best choice if you want big selection of colors and patterns. It is the most affordable countertop. Laminate countertop has 250 colors
and can be installed with flawless cove backsplashes that will keep the liquid to spill from the cabinets. And it’s easy to clean. You only need water and soap to clean your laminate countertop.

Solid surface is unusually all-around developing materials which offer a mass of benefits in performance with unbelievable application and design flexibility. There are variety of colors and texture to choose from.

Wood countertops or butcher block tops are perfect in beauty and function. This counter is usually made from hard rock maple or oak that gives pleasant glow to any kitchen. It also adds natural affection to the kitchen space.

Paper Countertops are very appealing and ecological. This is available in multiple colors, sizes and thicknesses and design. These materials are resistant to stain, scratch, heat and are easy to clean.

Stainless steel countertop is the classic type of countertop and by no means goes out of styles. Stainless steel never stains or corrodes. It is very tough, resistant to heat and water-proof.

Glass countertops give a kitchen a modern look. It has a heavy tensile power that tolerates a heavy weight . This countertop is not scratch resistant. It is recommended not to be used as cutting boards. This kind of countertop requires a challenging maintenance; if not dried with towel, this will leave watermarks and finger prints. It is recommended to use glass cleaner to maintain the striking look of the countertop.

Vanities are your frequent companion in preparing yourself for the day. There are varieties of style for vanities. Bathroom vanities and cabinets can create a style in your bathroom. An ordinary bathroom can come alive by setting a bathroom design. Bathroom vanity is the centerpiece of the bathroom. It is important to choose the right type of vanity and it is equally important to consider the other things in the bathroom; lighting, fixtures and toilet. You can choose from many types of bathroom vanities; wood vanities, glass vanities and contemporary, antique, and double vanities.

Wood vanities are available in different variations. Some are made of expensive and fine woods while some are just painted to appear like one. There is varnish paint available used to paint a plain plywood that would make it appear like a mahogany wood or oak wood. Glass vanities are usually made of durable glass and are finished with the combination of other materials like steel or wood. A wall-mounted vanity is the most popular style for glass vanity. It provides enough space for storage and other functions. If you want a modern look for your bathroom, glass vanity is recommended as most hotels and restaurants have this type.

Contemporary types of vanities are crafted using different materials. It is the most modern when it comes to details and style. It shows a unique design so it is best that it works well with the fixtures inside the bathroom.

Antique vanities do not mean antique in age. Craftsmanship nowadays has come up with designs and style that would make a material look old and antique in beauty. This type of vanity is usually made of fine woods. Because of its unique style, it is one of the most expensive vanities available in the market.

Double vanity is usually found in big bathrooms such as the one in the master bedroom. It contains two sinks in one vanity. This type of vanity also comes in different designs. It requires a larger space.

When choosing a countertop and bathroom vanity, you should have the sense of style and taste. Though kitchen and bathrooms are not really exposed to others, it is still best that you put some beauty in the special parts of your home.

Source: Various Types Of Countertops And Vanities