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Constructing Brands


Jan 28, 2020

Building Materials Industry | Building Materials and Structural Design

Joe Bruno is an architect who specializes in residential and commercial. He has done a significant amount of projects for municipalities and school districts, and he involves himself in every facet of the process from conception through completion. Since Joe has a handle on engineering and execution on top of his specialization, he is constantly watching trends in the building materials industry. Recently, Joe has noticed an increase in new technologies being introduced to the market, providing him with new ways to solve architectural problems as he incorporates these technologies into his designs.

Engineered Lumber

The building materials industry is always coming out with new products, but in Joe’s eyes, the latest trend has made the greatest impact on the structural design. Open floor plans are in extremely high demand right now and they pose many new challenges for architects across the country. Engineered lumber has enabled architects to create sprawling open floorplans without using a forest of columns or other laborious techniques. It is stronger than sawed lumber and more fire-resistant, so Joe has been able to expand his offerings to clients at a better price.

The Future of Building Materials in Architecture

Continuing with the idea of price, Joe predicts the building materials industry will see a continuing trend of greater variety at a lower cost. This includes materials that have traditionally only been accessible to the rich, like granite countertops and other finishes. Window manufacturers will offer a wider array of options and some of them are only available because new materials can withstand the stresses of new designs. Either way, the goal is to select the right materials for each job. And with an increasing number of different options available to us, the entire design-build process continues to become more efficient.

About Joe Bruno

Joseph J. Bruno, AIA is an architect in private practice in Park Ridge, New Jersey. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) in 1983. His extensive experience includes the design of schools, commercial buildings, and residences. Since establishing his own practice in 2000 he has focused primarily on custom residential design. This aspect of architectural practice is particularly satisfying as he has the ability to connect one on one with his clients in the pursuit of creating their dream homes. He has entered the stage of his career when the sons and daughters of his first clients are beginning to come to him to design homes for themselves and their families. Mr. Bruno has recently completed a 12 ½ year term as Trustee of the Park Ridge Board of Education where he served as President since 2008. He had previously served on the Board of Trustees of the Architects League of Northern New Jersey for many years before serving as President in 1998.

What You Will Learn:

  • Joe’s background in architecture and construction
  • New trends in the building materials industry
  • The future of building materials in architecture
  • How building materials manufacturers are increasing their visibility and selling their technology
  • Where Joe looks for new information about building materials and products
  • The importance of brand in Joe’s decision-making process

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