Thursday, February 28, 2019

Here are the best vegetables to plant and harvest in the garden this March

It’s time to harvest the last of the summer produce and start preparing for Autumn by planting and sowing new vegetables Best vegetables to harvest When harvesting summer vegetables, don’t discard those with the odd mark or two. Perfect shapes and unblemished leaves do not make your crops taste any better. Pick globe artichoke before […]

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Balfour Beatty to start Phase 2 of Washington, DC's $2.5B The Wharf

Having completed work for Phase 1 in 2017, the general contractor was selected for the next landside portion of the more than 1 million-square-foot phase of mixed-use waterfront development. 

Former Arkansas construction exec sentenced to 3 years prison for bank fraud

Matthew Beasley, former president of contractor Cobas Inc., submitted fake invoices to his bank in order to be able to draw on a business line of credit.

Massachusetts contractors faced $2.7M in wage theft penalties in 2018

State Attorney General Maura Healey is just one state official trying to get construction companies to pay up after cheating their workers out of pay.

Wednesday, February 27, 2019

To get the most out of drones, start with 'low-hanging fruit'

Thanks to a maturing drone market, contractors of all sizes can capture value through progress tracking, safety inspections and more while holding subs accountable, says William Pryor of Skycatch.

Goldman Sachs backs $8M funding round for construction finance startup Rabbet

Rabbet, formerly Contract Simply, employs software-as-a-service machine learning to more efficiently process construction draw requests.

Eniac Ventures leads predictive software startup Briq's $3M seed funding round

Machine learning and the larger universe of artificial intelligence, such as that used by Briq's platform, have been called "the next frontier" in construction.

Tennessee DOT mandates use of PlanGrid on public projects

More states are bucking paper systems for digital and transparent recordkeeping and project management.

How this creative couple added character to their new-build

A house-and-land package in Auckland’s Castor Bay turned out to be perfect for this young family, who have made their new-build feel like an established homestead When Paula and Antony Ward were looking for a house, the Auckland property market was in full swing – homes were being snapped up overnight, auctions were heated and […]

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Phase 2 of Michigan's $2B I-75 to start

By splitting the modernization project into three contracts, including this $224 million, 8-mile segment, the state shrunk the schedule by 10 years.

Justice Department sues Ohio contractor, sub for fake invoices, kickbacks

The agency claims that subcontractor Wise Services gifted CB&I AREVA MOX Services employees in order to persuade them to submit about $6.4 million of false invoices on its behalf.

Tuesday, February 26, 2019

Meet the op-shopper who turned her passion into a business

Op-shopper extraordinaire Charlotte Burt is both the brains behind online vintage store The Goods We Found and the designer of an ethical clothing range for kids It’s hard to believe it was only a year ago that Charlotte Burt started a little Instagram account called The Goods We Found – it feels like we’ve been […]

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AECOM investor encourages shareholders to elect new board

Engine Capital's open letter pointing to what it believes are flaws in management and compensation practices comes right before the contractor's annual meeting.

Diverting funds for border wall could be slow going

Even if President Trump pulls off his emergency declaration, the Department of Defense could take months to reallocate the $3.6 billion being eyed for construction of the wall.

The Dotted Line: How to effectively manage an underperforming sub

One bad subcontractor can impact an entire project, so it's important to build protections into the contract and for both the general contractor and sub to know their responsibilities and options.

Kiewit pegged for $5B Louisiana LNG export terminal

Under the turnkey EPC contract, Kiewit will design, engineer, construct, commission, test and guarantee the Venture Global LNG Inc. facility.

Monday, February 25, 2019

These 4 genius ways to reuse jars will save you a trip to the recycling bin

Don’t chuck away your old jam and peanut butter jars in the recycling bin, give these DIY jar projects a go Planters Jars make wonderful planters for small house plants. Simply pick a collection of jars and remove any labels and traces of glue. Pop a few small stones at the bottom for drainage, then […]

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South Texas county backs $1.8B steel mill project with new reinvestment zone

State and local governments are willing to compete for projects like the Steel Dynamics mill in San Patricio County in part because they stimulate the economy during construction.

$1B Boston hospital expansion will include disaster, flood protection

Healthcare facility upgrade requirements for worst-case scenarios are often financially burdensome for owners, including Mass General, which is still raising money for the project.

Illinois DOT needs at least $39B for transportation and infrastructure work

The funding request includes up to $15 billion during the next 10 years for highway maintenance alone.

$1B Boston hospotal expansion will include disaster, flood protection

Healthcare construction upgrade requirements for worse-case scenarios are often financially burdensome for facility owners, including Mass General, which must still raise money for the project.

Sunday, February 24, 2019

Kristina Rapley reveals how she chose her bathroom style in 4 simple steps

When it comes to bathroom design it can be hard to know where to begin. To help you get started, Your Home and Garden editor Kristina Rapley shares her own reno journey with Mico Bathrooms Whether your style is minimalist, maximalist or somewhere in between, it’s important to start your bathroom renovation journey with a […]

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These 8 churches for sale would make the most unique homes

Deconsecrated churches are tricky renovation projects, but with some hard work and vision, their unique features can be transformed into elegant homes. Here are eight churches for sale, ready to be converted When looking at churches offered for sale, be aware that if they are not renovated they will not have a bedroom or bathroom, […]

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This stylish coastal home will inspire you to paint your walls white

Think an all-white interior is boring? This coastal home proves white walls can be warm, welcoming and utterly unique Meet + Greet Kylie Hinds, 45 (founder of jewellery line Not Heidi), Paul Hinds, 45 (investor), Jasmine, 16, Holly, 14, and Jameson, 11, plus Diego the dog. For Kylie and Paul Hinds, creating a house they […]

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Saturday, February 23, 2019

A run-down caravan gets a Morrocan-Mexican makeover

Buying a run-down caravan was a spontaneous decision for this young couple, but their belief in its potential has resulted in a magical home away from home Where do you live? Jade: Tauranga. Why did you buy the caravan? We noticed it parked up for sale at Ferry Landing (at Cooks Beach, Coromandel) two years […]

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Friday, February 22, 2019

Work starts on 14-mile stretch of border wall in California

SLSCO will replace steel mesh near San Diego with a 30-foot-tall steel bollard system in a $101 million federal contract.

$12B Texas bullet train construction could start this year

Texas Central Partners is pressing on with the Dallas-to-Houston line and will appeal a court ruling that denied it railroad designation and land rights.

BUILD grants take $600M hit in new spending bill

With the federal transportation infrastructure program reduced to $900 million, competition for funds will be even fiercer in the next award application round.

New York contractor pleads guilty to minority fraud

The Erie County District Attorney's office said that Nichter Construction falsely stated that it had met the minority contracting requirements on a state project.

Thursday, February 21, 2019

A classic 1970s home gets a luxurious and sympathetic update

Daniel Marshall gently updates and extends a secluded 1970s home, originally designed by Robert Railley for his family The young couple in the old photograph sits cross-legged on a poppy-red shagpile, a collection of vinyl records spread before them. A Gordon Walters painting hangs on the wall behind and a Barcelona chair is placed, somewhat […]

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See inside a beautifully renovated 1980s cottage with a million-dollar view

A dated 1980s cottage with views to die for was the perfect project for this clever working mum For most of us who live in busy cities, a ‘good view’ counts as a skinny slice of ocean (in the distance) or maybe a really nice tree. For lucky Kiwis who live in our smaller towns […]

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Tutor Perini wins $1.4B Los Angeles Purple Line Section 3 contract

Pending federal funding, the contractor and partner O&G Industries will design and build 2.6 miles of rail and two stations for operation by 2026.

Cal/OSHA cites Shimmick, Con-Quest $65K in tunnel death

The accident led the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency to require bidding contractors to submit more detailed safety plans.

Concrete issues delay Denver airport project indefinitely

Quality and strength issues have already stalled the Ferrovial-led consortium's $650 million terminal renovation project by 10 months.

Wednesday, February 20, 2019

Strategic hire, new plant tee Skender up for maximum tech efficiencies

CEO Mark Skender and CTO Stacy Scopano, who comes from Skanska, share their strategy for improved data flow in the design, engineering and production of modular buildings.

VR forklift training removes risks, reduces costs

VR-based training may grow in popularity if the technology continues to prove its usefulness in the workplace. 

This simple DIY cushion will give your lovely, but unused, scarves new life

Beautiful silk scarves – many of them mini works of art – are trending right now. Rather than tucking it in a drawer, turn one of your favourites into a vibrant cushion that would be perfect on a bed or on display (the fabric is delicate, though, so no cushion fights!) You will need: 2 […]

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Katerra to license process, market software and building components

The firm's launches last week included a proprietary software that integrates and employs data gathered across a building’s supply chain and construction.

Developer to convert Texas mall into $1B mixed-use complex

Vacant shopping malls such as the Collin Creek Mall in Plano, casualties of the online shopping trend, are ripe for conversion to a variety of uses.

Washington, DC's $1.3B of medical construction led US

The most populated 25 U.S. metros saw a total of $15.7 billion of activity in the healthcare sector last year.

Trump administration moves to terminate $929M grant for California bullet train

The USDOT's move comes after the California High-Speed Rail Authority said it would reduce the $77 billion project to just its $10 billion Central Valley section.

Virginia awards $3.3B Hampton Roads tunnel project to Dragados-led design-build team

The group that the Dragados USA-led team beat to win the tunnel project was Hampton Roads Capacity Constructors, which included Fluor Corp., The Lane Construction Co. and AECOM.

Justice Department subpoenas Honolulu high-speed rail records

The subpoena indicates that the federal agency is pursuing a criminal investigation into the beleaguered rail project.

Washington, DC, region led US in 2018 with $1.3B of medical construction

The top 25 U.S. metros with a population of one million or more people saw a total of $15.7 billion of medical construction activity.

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Why heat pumps are great at keeping your house cool – and other myths exposed

Here’s why a Daikin heat pump is your best solution for staying cool in this hot, humid summer weather If open windows and a feeble floor fan just aren’t cutting it anymore, a Daikin heat pump could be your answer to beating the heat this summer. Despite its name, a heat pump is perfect for […]

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A stunning Palmerston North villa transformed by two seasoned renovators

Saving a crumbling Palmerston North villa was a labour of love for this pair of professional renovators who had a clear vision for their heritage home The McDonald family’s house dream started with a simple walk around the neighbourhood – and the courage to be a little bit cheeky. Professional renovators Rebecca (Becs) and Blair […]

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Why the Len Lye Centre is artist Shannon Novak’s favourite building

Auckland-based artist and trained pianist Shannon Novak returned to New Plymouth, his birth city, to riff on the physicality of The Len Lye Centre “How could you not love it? Long mirrored arms stretch into the sky pulling it earthward. Smooth, undulating curves trace visual music through the air. Warm sunlight slow dances around your body as […]

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3 suffer fall injuries on $2.3B I-4 Ultimate project

In addition, since 2016, four workers have died working on the 21-mile expansion of Interstate 4 through Orlando, Florida, including one on Feb. 4.

North Dakota city 'poised for billion-dollar boom'

Potential projects include reconstruction of a major downtown avenue as well as mixed-use and residential developments, Grand Forks' mayor said.

Amazon may sign PLA for Virginia HQ2

With the tech giant nixing its New York plans, Arlington officials may push harder to give local construction unions pre-hire bargaining rights.

Forget the Big Bang - it's the big offsite construction boom that deserves your attention

The once silo-driven construction industry is vertically integrating discipline, process and production and its customers only stand to benefit.

Monday, February 18, 2019

These South Island homes were designed around their spectacular views

Home of the Year 2019 is Altherm Window Systems’ 10th year as principal sponsor. To celebrate, we’ve collected a handful of South Island architectural highlights from their decade of extraordinary commitment. If building in the North Island tends toward airy pavilions and timber sheds, then building in the South comes with a bit more weight. […]

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Take this style quiz and we’ll tell you what your bathroom design should be

Are you into minimalist design and or do you prefer a bit of glitz and glam? Discover your style personality and we’ll show you how to shop your dream bathroom look

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Why this fibreglass extension is not your average garage

Tasked with creating an extension to this former 1950s Statehouse that could be used as a multi-room, but was not allowed to be a brick-and-tile double garage, architect Mark Frazerhurst looked to curves and corrugated fibreglass  Project Studio addition Architect Mark Frazerhurst Location Point Chevalier, Auckland Brief Create a multi-functional room and extra bedrooms for a […]

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How to give your garden a landscaping facelift that’s budget savvy

Creating a new garden doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch. It’s better for the budget and the planet to work with what you have to give your garden a facelift 1. Survey your site Begin by assessing the garden thoroughly. When making over an existing garden (or, indeed, starting with bare earth), knowing your […]

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Sunday, February 17, 2019

This Te Awanga home will make you want a bright blue kitchen

Bonnifait + Giesen design a house in the vines at Te Awanga with places to work, places to socialise – and places to do both Take a look at the Te Awanga house of Catherine and David Robertson on Google and one thing jumps out at you immediately. Where its neighbours all face diligently north, […]

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Saturday, February 16, 2019

This brilliant all-white kitchen is anything but boring

Moving the kitchen into the heart of the living area made this 1920s New Plymouth home feel open and fresh. See more of this Kitchen Awards finalist below Meet + greet Heath Ashton, 35 (builder), Sarah Ashton, 32 (pharmacy technician), and Leonardo, 4, plus Isabella the dog and Lily the kitten. Key Trades/suppliers Plumber Mike Wimsett […]

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Friday, February 15, 2019

This modern kitchen utilises hard-wearing materials in the most stylish way

The Baldwin family’s new kitchen is the heart of their modern new-build in Cromwell, Central Otago. See how this Kitchen Awards finalist uses ply and stainless steel in the best way Meet + greet Ellen Baldwin, 35 (stay-at-home mum), Shaun Baldwin, 38 (roofer), Stella, 4, Deacon and Jed, 2 and a half, plus Beth the […]

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Google embarks on $13B data center expansion

"Major expansions" are set for 14 states, which will create 10,000 new construction opportunities for workers in Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, Texas, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Virginia.

NBA's Warriors propose hotel, condos at $1.5B Chase Center

Echoing a trend around the country, the San Francisco-based franchise's president said the mixed-use aspect of the privately financed arena makes the project viable.

Trump declares national emergency in goal of getting $8B for wall

Congress' offer of $1.4 billion meant to avoid a shutdown is just a fraction of the $5.7 billion requested for border wall construction, and Democrats have vowed to fight Trump's move.

Amazon scraps NYC HQ2 plans

The company said it is withdrawing its plans for the Long Island City headquarters location due to the significant local political opposition.

Ruckit aims to streamline heavy freight logistics

The platform lets aggregators, trucking companies and customers collaborate on the delivery of jobsite equipment and materials. 

Thursday, February 14, 2019

See the 10 incredible homes that made the Home of the Year 2019 shortlist

HOME magazine has released the 10 houses that made it onto their Home of the Year 2019 shortlist. Watch the video below to see which projects were chosen When the entries to Home of the Year come in, the HOME team gets an insight into what’s happening in the best architecture practices around the country. […]

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How this stunning kitchen achieved its modern art deco look on a budget

This Tauranga kitchen was a finalist in Your Home and Garden’s Kitchen Awards. Read about how it achieved its fresh look on a budget Meet + greet Erica Wilson, 32 (photographer), Colin Wilson, 36 (ultrafast fibre technician), Kyla, 9, Leon, 7, and Mahli, 1, plus dogs Luna and Min. Key trades/suppliers Plumber Dart Jackson at Smart […]

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A sympathetic add-on transformed this Arrowtown crib into a cosy home

An architectural couple transform a crib in downtown Arrowtown into a home that expands and contracts for family and friends There’s something of the spirit of the old crib in Maarten Hofmans and Anna Rees-Hofmans’ home in the historic district of Arrowtown. While finesse sets the new a world apart from the old, they share […]

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BREAKING: Amazon scraps NYC HQ2 plans

The company said it is withdrawing its plans for the Long Island City headquarters location due to the significant local political opposition.

Tolls may help Florida's pending $10B infrastructure program

Some state lawmakers maintain that an expansion of the toll road system into rural areas would ease congestion, but the proposal is getting pushback from residents.

NYC mayor touts Amazon HQ2 importance while rumors indicate deal is at risk

Mayor Bill de Blasio says bringing the tech giant to the city is "mission critical," but reports indicate Amazon isn't amused by New Yorkers' negative attitudes.

High stakes: State cannabis laws make contractors' obligations hazy

Laws permitting medical and sometimes recreational marijuana present challenges for employers — not the least of which is finding workers who can pass a hiring or post-accident/incident drug test. 

$313M seismic retrofit of San Francisco's Transbay Tube underway

The project includes attaching, welding and grouting steel plates along the inner surface to create a liner and will take more than three years.

Wednesday, February 13, 2019

Ruckit aims to streamline heavy construction freight logistics

The platform lets aggregators, trucking companies and customers collaborate on the delivery of jobsite equipment and materials. 

First free-form 3D-printed house could be completed this year

The home will break ground soon in Tennessee utilizing Branch Technology's cellular fabrication method for its "lattice-like matrix."

Companies look to partnerships to survive digital transformation

To increase competitiveness, businesses are turning to the cloud, automation, AI and more, a study found, and relying heavily on relationships and feedback.

NYU establishes construction innovation hub

The Institute of Design and Construction Innovations Hub will promote safety and efficiency within the industry and help executives find solutions to the issues that can make a project late or over budget.

This black and white kitchen was designed for entertaining in style

This Hastings kitchen, which was a finalist in Your Home & Garden’s Kitchen Awards, was designed for maximum enjoyment with friends Meet + greet Hayden Houghton, 34 (financial advisor), and Victoria Houghton, 31 (primary school teacher), plus Nala the cat. Key trades/suppliers Builder Sam & Shelley Lamborn from Dundeal Building Electrician Bay Electricians Plumber Advanced […]

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The wheelchair-friendly home designed and built by two brothers for family

Andrew Sexton designs a wheelchair-friendly home beside Wellington Harbour for his brother, and his other brother builds it It wasn’t quite a miracle, but it was something special all the same. Stew Sexton drove from the supermarket to his new home in Wellington’s Eastbourne, parked the car in the garage, got the groceries out, took […]

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State cites sub for $12M of wage theft violations

The California Labor Commissioner's Office claims that RDV Construction bounced paychecks and illegally deducted up to 25% from employees' pay.

Federal lawmakers propose $1.4B for border wall

President Trump has not said whether he will agree to the deal, which will cover only 55 miles of new barrier construction.

California governor scales back $77B bullet train project

But Gov. Gavin Newsom promises not to abandon high-speed rail, which would mean the state had spent billions with nothing but negatives to show.

Tuesday, February 12, 2019

A fun and colourful garden is the fifth Resene Colour Home Awards finalist

The vibrant hues of the Mediterranean inspired this clever homeowner to embrace bright colours in the most creative way in the back garden of her Auckland home Meet + Greet Erina Emery, 46 (interior designer), Matthew Emery, 49 (lawyer), Mason, 16, Zoe, 13, and Oliver, 11, plus Roxy the dog. Spanish steps After a year […]

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This classic Chapman-Taylor house is cleverly filled with modern pieces

After 23 years, Michelle and Gary Backhouse leave their treasured home, designed in 1909 by James Chapman-Taylor Call it the long goodbye. After more than two decades in a home they have loved, restored and treasured, Michelle and Gary Backhouse were in no mad rush to close its handsome, jarrah-wood front door behind them for […]

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See the inspiring winner of Your Home & Garden’s Kitchen Awards

Installed as part of a new-build, this Auckland kitchen was the judges’ favourite for its warm feel and clever use of materials Meet + greet Katie Harris, 29 (hand therapist and Optic Build’s administrator), Daniel Harris, 30 (builder and owner of Optic Build), and Olive, 3 months, plus dogs Chief and Lucy. Key trades/suppliers Project […]

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Boston-area medical center will anchor housing, office and retail development

The Quincy, Massachusetts, project will represent the largest commercial development in the downtown's $1.6 billion redevelopment surge, which started in 2011.

Feds sue New Jersey contractor for $679K to resolve delinquent OSHA fines

Frame Q owes $473,178 from eight jobsite inspections dating back to March 2014, along with government penalties, interest and fees.

3 top contractors compete to build Los Angeles Clippers arena

The NBA franchise is reportedly deciding between three teams to manage the project — AECOM-Turner, Mortenson-Clark and PCL Construction.

Streamline your business using data with these 3 steps

By adopting the lean construction methodology, companies can now use data as a key component to build an efficient workflow, while maximizing the effectiveness of the workforce. 

Monday, February 11, 2019

5 charming one-bedroom homes for sale that aren’t apartments

When it comes to the filters you apply when house hunting it’s worth thinking outside the box. This collection of homes prove why there’s more to one bedders that just apartments We often get caught up by narrowing our property search to standard three-bedroom homes, or think that if you are looking for something smaller apartments […]

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See the 5 beautiful finalists in Your Home & Garden’s Kitchen Awards

We reveal Your Home & Garden’s five Kitchen Awards finalists and discover the overall winner, who wins a home prize package worth more than $6000! Your Home & Garden kicked off their inaugural Kitchen Awards this year, with the help of overall sponsor Blum. They asked their readers to send in their recently completed kitchen projects and, […]

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6 things you need to do before you plan and design a new kitchen

Meticulous planning is the key to creating a new kitchen that looks great and functions efficiently John van Doormaal from Innovative Kitchens has learned a thing or two about kitchen design during his more than 30 years in the business. He shares his top tips for creating a super-successful new kitchen: 1. Research Do as […]

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This 5-step guide will help you get the best internet connection

Plan for a future you can’t yet imagine. That’s what Chorus tech expert Kurt Rodgers recommends to homeowners who are thinking about their tech requirements when planning a new home or renovation By December 2022, almost 90 per cent of New Zealand’s population will be within reach of ultra-fast broadband, so it’s important to plan fibre […]

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Avoid these common mistakes when choosing curtains for your home

Curtains and blinds can make or break a home – here’s what you need to know when you’re fitting out your new build or renovation There’s a lot more to curtains and blinds than just preventing passers-by from seeing you in your pyjamas at night. They also provide added insulation and are an important component […]

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6 things you need to do before you plan and design a new kitchen

Meticulous planning is the key to creating a new kitchen that looks great and functions efficiently John van Doormaal from Innovative Kitchens has learned a thing or two about kitchen design during his more than 30 years in the business. He shares his top tips for creating a super-successful new kitchen: 1. Research Do as […]

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This 5-step guide will help you get the best internet connection

Plan for a future you can’t yet imagine. That’s what Chorus tech expert Kurt Rodgers recommends to homeowners who are thinking about their tech requirements when planning a new home or renovation By December 2022, almost 90 per cent of New Zealand’s population will be within reach of ultra-fast broadband, so it’s important to plan fibre […]

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These expert tips will make your tapware and bathroom fitting choices easy

Top tips for selecting tapware and fittings that are as practical as they are beautiful The delight is in the detail when you’re planning a bathroom, kitchen, scullery or laundry fit-out. After all that hard slog getting the layout right and choosing tiles and other surfaces, it’s fun to choose the finishing touches, including taps […]

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Avoid these common mistakes when choosing curtains for your home

Curtains and blinds can make or break a home – here’s what you need to know when you’re fitting out your new build or renovation There’s a lot more to curtains and blinds than just preventing passers-by from seeing you in your pyjamas at night. They also provide added insulation and are an important component […]

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Pittsburgh Penguins Civic Arena site redevelopment could begin by fall

The hockey franchise is moving on a long-stalled plan to add residential, office and entertainment space to its former stadium's 28-acre parcel.

Report: Elevator-related construction deaths on the rise

The number of annual incidents doubled from 2003 to 2016, according to CPWR, which claims that most are preventable.

Sunday, February 10, 2019

This family share what feels like to finally start building their first home

With a little trepidation and a lot of excitement, building has begun on the My New Home site. Oliver and Ella choose curtains, tapware, the kitchen design and install fibre. We get the lowdown on stage three: The build start See how the My New Home site is starting to take shape Our homeowners Oliver […]

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Entries are open for the Dulux Colour Awards, here’s all you need to know

Calling all architects, interior designers, colour consultants, stylists and students; entries are open for this year’s Dulux Colour Awards. Read about the categories and corresponding prizes below Entries are now open for the 33rd Dulux Colour Awards, which invites New Zealand and Australian based design professionals and students including architects and interior designers to submit […]

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See how a detailed villa extension fits perfectly into this traditional home

The brief was to create a contemporary addition to a traditional villa for a young family “The clients were up for something refined and highly detailed,” says AJ Sutton. “There was a reasonable brief and a few images – they wanted something modern and open plan, which on that site really means a box on the back.” […]

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Saturday, February 9, 2019

See how Andiamo restaurant managed to go bold with beige

A neighbourhood classic in Auckland’s Herne Bay is brought back to life Late last year, Auckland’s Nourish Group reopened Andiamo, which had closed on the same site several years before. “Andiamo had been an instiution in our community for years,” says Nourish’s Paula Sigley, “and we wanted to re-create a warm and inviting local.” Any […]

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Friday, February 8, 2019

This modern villa extension transformed a lean-to into a sunny living area

This family came up with an ingenious villa extension solution to create an open-plan living area with a better connection to the garden Just about every villa has one: the dreaded lean-to, with sloping ceilings, small windows and a rabbit warren of rooms jammed next to each other. Often derided; usually demolished. But when it came […]

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2 contractors settle SBA 8(a) fraud allegations for $3.6M

The VMJ Construction/Vigil Contracting case is an example of how costly penalties can be for procurement fraud under the federal program.

ExxonMobil, Qatar Petroleum announce plans to build $10B LNG export facility

The Golden Pass project in Texas is part of ExxonMobil's $50 billion plan to expand its U.S. facilities during the next five years.

Related wins TIF approval for $7B mixed-use Chicago riverfront project

The subsidy could generate as much as $551 million for infrastructure on the 62-acre plan dubbed The 78, which could receive the go-ahead next month.

Related Midwest wins TIF approval for $7B mixed-use riverfront project

If it gets the green light from the city council, the subsidy could generate as much as $551 million for infrastructure on the 62-acre plan dubbed "The 78."

Thursday, February 7, 2019

3 flooring options from Carpet Court that are perfect for a neutral interior

Choosing the perfect flooring to complement an all-white interior is easy with Carpet Court’s wide range of realistic wood-look laminate and vinyl, and a plush palette of nature-inspired carpets 1. Malmo Dynamic ‘barrow oak’ Dynamic is a versatile flooring that can be used anywhere, is extremely resilient and offers an attractive variety of patterns and […]

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Why this couple’s analogue kitchen was built to feel like a piece of furniture

Peter Saxton and Delaney Dobson discuss how their ‘analogue’ kitchen by Cheshire Architects has changed how they live Peter— “It started with a very broad conversation with Nat [Cheshire] and Ian [Scott] about the types of spaces we responded to – a combination of natural light and materials used in intelligent ways that make you […]

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Huntsville, Alabama, could see up to $1B FBI investment

Sen. Richard Shelby reportedly said that the area is “on fire” in terms of development. 

Study: Difficult to control respirable silica levels during chipping, crushing

The findings suggested that workers performing demolition and related activities would be best protected by respiratory gear, even when dust control measures are in place.

Indictments cast shadow on Philadelphia construction industry

The charges against Local 98 IBEW union leader John Dougherty and others range from bribery to fraud, forcing some to consider how much undue influence the city's unions have over the local industry.

Wednesday, February 6, 2019

Tech Toys: AR-based crane training, a booming social platform for tradespeople

Plus, Autodesk's first Revit update rollout of the year is optimized for the cloud and DroneDeploy tools to leverage drone data now integrate with Multivista.

More evidence that drones could and should play major role in infrastructure inspections

Researchers at a Swedish university further solidified the idea that UAVs can inspect dams, wind turbines and other types of infrastructure faster and more safely than humans.

Marines 3D-print concrete footbridge in field

This was the first time in the Western Hemisphere that a bridge was 3D-printed onsite rather than in a controlled environment like a factory.

Drones, reality capture a 'natural fit' for ambitious Mortenson, AECOM project

To meet an aggressive schedule on an AECOM-designed hospital, Mortenson turned to technology to communicate the changes taking place and ensure fidelity to the model.

This Hamptons-inspired home will convince you to paint your walls white

Opening the doors to her Hamptons-inspired retreat in Karaka, foodie extraordinaire Jo Wilcox reveals her key ingredients for happy family living Meet + Greet Jo Wilcox, 46 (freelance food stylist), Paul Wilcox, 47 (CEO), Chloe, 16, and Georgia, 11, plus Paddy the Cavoodle, Pippi the cat and guinea pigs Roxy and Ruby. Honesty box Best […]

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Trump light on trade, infrastructure details in State of the Union address

Though the White House spent much of 2018 attempting to steer the national conversation toward infrastructure, the topic received just two sentences with no specific appropriations mentioned.

FAA spec update includes precast concrete for first time

With the Federal Aviation Administration's new specifications, precast suppliers and contractors are poised to get a bigger piece of construction and renovation projects at the more than 19,000 airports in the U.S. 

Minnesota groups push for state to allow teens to work on construction sites

Some in the state's construction industry want regulation to echo federal law that allows 16- and 17-year-olds to work on jobsites.

First steel truss set for $375M Caesars conference center in Las Vegas

General contractor Penta Building Group is building the 550,000-square-foot event space with 1,000 local construction workers for completion by 2020.

Details emerge of prevailing wage deal between union, NYC on housing projects

This revelation echoes a proposal currently on the table that would require prevailing wages on many city construction projects receiving financial assistance from a local agency.

Tuesday, February 5, 2019

A beautiful but stressful renovation gave this family the space they needed

This family’s whole-hog renovation was a rocky road but they’ve emerged with a beautiful home designed ‘100 per cent’ for them ‘and zero per cent for resale Meet + greet Vanessa Rehm, 41 (stay-at-home mum and blogger at vanessarehm.com), Shane Rehm, 38 (chief engineer at Fisher & Paykel Appliances), Tahlia, 9, Aston, 7, and Beau, […]

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Bridge replacement top priority in Maryland's $9B Beltway expansion

Lanes will also be added to the Capital Beltway within its existing footprint, even if that means "stacking" them or putting them underground.

Trump executive order extends Buy American policy

The directive asks federal agencies to encourage contractors on infrastructure projects to buy iron, aluminum, steel, cement and other goods domestically.

Construction fatalities up in New York state, down in NYC

While the rate of jobsite deaths across the state increased 39% between 2013 and 2017, the city saw a 23% decrease, according to a report on the most recent Department of Labor data.

Technology won't save your project - learn what will

Technology alone won’t solve the industry’s productivity problem. The right people and a goal-oriented mindset need to be in place in order to get these investments to pay off.

Monday, February 4, 2019

This couple’s bach dreams came true with this cute Mangawhai reno

This creative couple designed and built their dream bach; a personality-packed Mangawhai weekend retreat just out of Auckland Meet + Greet Mark Newbold, 43 (chartered accountant), Kylee Newbold, 37 (head of arts at an Auckland secondary school and jewellery maker), plus dogs Frida and Stanley. Honesty box Any DIY disasters? We underestimated the need to […]

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Port of Alaska construction costs soar to nearly $2B

The cost is nearly twice earlier estimates, which the port's home city, Anchorage, cannot afford — but one official says the necessary funds could be raised by increasing tariffs on incoming cargo.

Miami-Dade approves zoning change to encourage TODs

The county's new zoning allows for higher density residential construction along six transit corridors.

Subs on $1.5B Philadelphia Comcast Technology Center file millions in liens

Multiple mechanic's liens were filed on the downtown high-rise project, alleging general contractor L.F. Driscoll, affiliates of developer Liberty Property Trust and others withheld payment.

Sunday, February 3, 2019

This New Plymouth home will make you want to get an indoor swing

This New Plymouth home is full of fun. From the sunny yellow hue featured in every room to the indoor swing, there’s something everywhere that will make you smile Meet + Greet Anja Niechziol, 44 (interior designer), Andrew Wall, 46 (data engineer), Lukas, 13, Leni, 10, and Hetti, 8, plus cats Bambi and Cinder, and […]

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Saturday, February 2, 2019

30 genius decluttering hacks that will actually help keep your home tidy

The rules of decluttering are simple: get rid of any unwanted stuff, find a handy place for the items that remain, and endeavour to keep it there – how hard can it be? 1. Organise the chaos Limit yourself to one small ‘dumping tray’ or ‘junk bowl’, where you keep odds and ends that don’t […]

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Friday, February 1, 2019

This sub-tropical Auckland garden will transport you to paradise

A series of terraces, lush planting and enhanced outdoor bathing options have lifted this steep inner-city site to subtropical superstar status Dealing with an “incredibly challenging” steep site, a swimming pool in disrepair and major privacy issues is not an easy ask for any landscape professional. Fortunately, talented designer Kirsten Sach was more than up […]

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Houston suburb looking for private partner to develop new hotel, convention center

Cities all over the U.S. are expanding and upgrading their convention center facilities in order to draw more trade shows and conferences.

$1.7B of construction underway in Charlotte's central hub

With the fifth-busiest business district for U.S. office construction, the North Carolina city is also seeing a boom in hotel, retail and residential.

Super Bowl LIII will showcase next-generation stadium

The Mercedes-Benz stadium's lens-like retractable roof and world's first halo video board are a sampling of high-tech venue features that will increasingly become the norm.