Call for Papers: AXIS volume 12 - Prototyping

Android for Architects & Designers

With the introduction of Google's chromebook, a laptop device running their mobile Android operating system and manufactured by Samsung & Acer, we are seeing the possible rise of a third computer choice for architects and designers.

Already there are a number of apps created for mobile devices running Android, but now being extended to laptops and the support of Google's ever-increasing market and open source options, this offers a widening of the potential for AEC fields. Autodesk is aware of the market in Android mobile computing and has produced a number of apps for this emerging market including AutoCAD WS, 360 Mobile and Sketchbook Pro.

Here is a list of other useful apps:

Bimshare - described as the easiest way to share your building model online. This app, acquired by  Gehry Technologies in 2012, allows Architects and Engineers to share models, concepts and ideas with teams on BIM projects Your models display beautifully in your browser can view by story, show and hide individual parts of the building or view only parts of a certain type. Supports ifc files.

Redstick - This app allows users to measure buildings using anything from a tape measure to a bluetooth laser measuring device and accurately store that information in an electronic format. The files integrate with any cad software in either a 2D or 3D format and can any opened with any BIM/CAD application including ArchiCAD, REVIT, Microstation or Architect.

Smart Tools Pro is an all-in-one package of 15 apps including a rulers, levels, compasses, flashlights, protractors, etc. This collection of apps allows you to measure lengths, angles, distances, heights, directions and sounds with your phone. The app also allows you to add more tools as they become available.

Design Dimensions Pro - a reference tool for design professionals that features an extensive visual database with dimensions of commonly referenced items. The app allows users to navigate through hundreds of illustrated items to find the exact information you are looking for.

iConfirm - this project management app allows users to create change orders, disclaimers, timelines, memoranda and other documents remotely. Documents can be built, signed and saved to the application and distributed in PDF format.

Cheap Home Decor Ideas

Is your home in need of an upgrade? On a budget? Don’t worry, here are eights tips on easy fixes that won’t cost a ton of money.

1. Add an accent color to the room. Choose a color that harmonizes or contrasts well with the existing colors of the room. Then, add the color in interesting ways. A candle, curtain ties, throw pillows, new rugs, covered lamp shades, picture frames, book spines and vases are all ways to add highlights to a dull room.
   
2. Add a big, bright new rug or several area rugs. There are many colors and designs, so shop around and find a few that suit the existing décor. Rugs should be anchored with a chair, end table, desk or coffee table so they don’t look like an after-thought. They can define a sitting area or add a focal point. Many rugs have non-skid backing and can be put almost anywhere.
   
3. Put some plants around the house. Plants create a soothing atmosphere by bringing nature close to the living environment. Houses that are surrounded by beautiful gardens may not want more inside, but the décor of stark apartments can be greatly enhanced by plants. Some plants actually scrub the air in the room and remove toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde and benzene, which are commonly given off by carpets and furniture glues. Some plants can serve another purpose and be fresh ingredients for cooking. Plants need care; after all they are living creatures, so find out how they should be treated.
   
4. Put a fresh coat of paint on the walls of a room. If that is too much, just paint one wall an accent color. If that is still too much, just paint the door, bookcase and around the windows. Paint can lighten up a room with off-white or neutral colors or brighten it up with vivid colors. Even with the same old furniture, freshly painted walls make the room feel new. Home improvement loans are available for this kind of upgrade.
   
5. Find a way to minimize the objects in a room. Clutter is never attractive unless it is on purpose and well-coordinated. If clutter can be removed by hiding it or putting it in storage and the room reduced to the bare essentials, there is a good chance the room will look new. Storage containers can be creative such as a baskets or bins that are attractive, but the best way it to get the clutter out of sight. Organize shelves and reduce the amount on each shelf and remove any furniture that is rarely used. An uncluttered room is the perfect background for any of the above suggestions.
   
6. Put some art on the wall. It doesn’t have to be expensive art; it just needs to be attractive. One wall can be chosen to exhibit a selection of paintings or photographs of different sizes arranged in a unique presentation. Any collections or heirlooms that can be displayed on a wall can also make an interesting and attractive focal point for the room’s décor. There’s no rule for what should be displayed, but it should be displayed in a harmonious arrangement.
   
7. Change the lighting. If the room is lit by a central bulb, it will greatly enhance the ambience by adding table lamps. Lights can add warmth to a bare room and highlight certain areas such as a comfortable chair or an arrangement of chairs for intimate chats. Depending on what is outside the windows, it may be a good idea to get rid of curtains altogether and let in the natural light. There are inexpensive blinds that are attractive and modern that will give privacy and still allow more natural light.
   
8. Make a small room bigger with an eye-catching wall mirror. The bigger the better as long as it has an attractive frame and an appropriate wall. Wall mirrors come in all sizes and have frames of wood, metal or leather and are also frame-less. Several mirrors of various sizes and shapes well arranged on a wall will add interest, light and may be easier to find than good art.

Authors Bio:

Brent Wayne is a 22 years old housing and finance writer. He mostly spends his time writing blog posts and editorials for Mortgageloan.com. Do send him a nudge over at brentzie@gmail.com if you'd like to say hello.

9 Reasons to Get a Degree in Architecture

Deciding which major to choose in college can be tough. If you've stumbled upon this blog, and you're interested in architecture, here are a few reasons you might want to get a degree in it:

1. The job market for architects will recover. People will always need places to live and work. The real estate market and construction industry are slowly getting better, and they will continue to get better.
   
2. You'll never be bored as an architect. Architects are constantly challenged to be innovative and resourceful. They're always asked to be creative and thoughtful. The job of an architect is almost always stimulating.
   
3. It's easy to be passionate about what you do as an architect. As an architect, you'll get to do what you love every day. You'll get to create things. If you're a creative person, you'll find architecture to be immensely rewarding.
   
4. Architecture pays well, after you have a few years of experience. You may have to fight tooth and nail to find a job after college, if the job market's still tough when you graduate. However, so will most graduates. Once you do find a job, it will pay enough for you to cover your bills, in most cases. Entry-level architects make around $40,000 a year. If you stick with it, though, for several years, you will probably end up making around $70,000 a year, which is the average median salary for experienced architects, according to Life of an Architect.
   
5. You'll be making a difference in people's lives. What you do will directly affect people and enrich their lives. You'll be helping to create the buildings people need to thrive.
   
6. You'll be well-rounded. Architects are some of the most well-rounded professionals on the planet. Their careers demand them to be well-versed in art, design, engineering, art history, sociology, and technology. If you want to be a jack of all trades and a master of architecture, you'll love your job.
   
7. You'll have diverse career options. Architects can work in a number of different fields and perform a number of different roles. You'll get to pick whether or not you want to get involved with commercial, industrial, or landscape architecture. Additionally, you have the option of working in urban planning, historical preservation, and facility management. The sky is the limit in terms of what you can do in all of these fields!
   
8. People will think highly of you. Being an architect is prestigious. Much like doctors, lawyers, and engineers, architects are respected in our society.
   
9. If it's your dream, you should follow it. If you're good at architecture, you'd probably be good at engineering or computer programming too. Some people might tell you that those fields are more practical and lucrative, especially due to the current economic difficulties. However, ultimately, you should do what you love. The world needs more architects who love what they do.

Kristie Lewis is a guest blogger, freelancer, and lover of architecture. She currently spends the bulk of her time writing for www.constructionmanagementdegree.org and enjoys giving advice to prospective construction management and architecture students. Please contact Kristie at Kristie.lewis81@gmail.com if you have any comments or questions.