Entries by Alison Clack

First BONE Structure Set in Saskatoon

The BONE Structure concept was inspired from a combination of LEGO and Meccano — pieces are simply snapped together. The construction includes a lightweight, recycled steel frame, which enables homeowners to have a reconfigurable open-space concept, without intermediate beams or load-bearing walls. Electrical, plumbing, heating and ventilation systems are connected thanks to precut openings acting […]

How Slightly Better Concrete Could Save the Planet

Recent research suggests that when it comes to concrete, we can do better. Several universities and corporations have set up research partnerships to make concrete more sustainable. In 2014, engineers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology reported that by tweaking the ratio of starting ingredients, they had created cement samples with twice the strength of […]

Preparing Cities for a Changing Climate

Rising sea levels, epic droughts, massive flooding: the effects of climate change are already here. How do we adapt? From the Netherlands to Manhattan’s Lower East Side, this article explores the cutting-edge engineering – and cultural shifts – that could help. Read more

PPO Looks Deeper at Benefit Plans

Prompt Payment Ontario (PPO) is undertaking a survey of multi-employer benefit plans to quantify the cost of damages stemming from delinquent payments, which will form part of the organization’s submission to the Construction Lien Act review. Read more