Associations: Dynamic Connections for the Profession

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From Architectural Record

For architects, referencing NEIS saves spec-writing time, and provides control over workmanship and long-term performance by preventing unrealistic "low-ball" bids that find their costs in extras and change orders since they've been given the job on price and not performance. As an enforceable part of the contract documents, NEIS can help reduce misunderstandings among architects, engineers, electrical contractors, owners and facility managers. Currently there are 28 standards covering everything from fiber optics to motor installations. Several other standards are currently under review. Standards can be accessed at the NEIS web site atneca-neis.org.


The NTMA establishes national standards for all terrazzo floor and wall systems.

For more than 60 years, MIA has served as the authoritative source of information on standards of natural stone workmanship and practice and the suitable application of natural stone products. Membership in the association is worldwide and includes nearly 1,300 natural stone producers, exporters/importers, distributors/wholesalers, fabricators, finishers, installers, and industry suppliers − all committed to the highest standards of workmanship and ethics.

MIA publishes a monthly newsletter for members, markets a range of technical publications and consumer pamphlets on natural stone, sponsors business and technical meetings and seminars on industry-related topics, provides educational programming for architects and construction specification professionals, conducts an annual Pinnacle Awards competition recognizing outstanding natural stone projects worldwide and hosts an informative web site for consumers and design and construction professionals at usenaturalstone.com.

MIA provides complimentary technical advice and opinion to member firms and to architects seeking help with projects involving the application and use of natural stone. In addition, MIA has published the leading reference book for dimensional stone design and construction facts and details − Dimension Stone Design Manual. MIA is currently working to launch a natural stone industry accreditation program with a targeted introduction in 2006.

Raising the performance of the industry is also the goal of the NTMA. Founded in 1923, the association was started in Chicago by 20 contractors, 12 of whom are still members, to promote good standards, quality installation, and provide technical support. The association establishes national standards for all terrazzo floor and wall systems. While membership in the association is limited to terrazzo contractors who meet rigid proficiency standards and participate in continuing education seminars, like many trade associations, NTMA provides complete specifications, color plates and general information to architects and designers at no cost on their web site, ntma.com.

It's a technique that has spanned more than 600 years and can be seen in facilities from airports and stadiums to historic Italian palazzos. So why does such a traditional art form like terrazzo need an association? "As design and construction changes, so must the materials, and we're here to keep in step with what architects and contractors need for today and tomorrow," said George Hardy, NTMA Executive Director. "We're focused on providing thorough information − from design ideas to technical advice," said Hardy. For example, the NTMA has conducted extensive research on one of the hot topics affecting its members − how moisture affects installation when epoxy is applied on slab. Information about the results is available at the association's web site.

To further promote and celebrate the craft, NTMA, like many trade associations, hosts an annual design competition − the Honor Awards. These awards offer architects an opportunity to gain recognition for work in specific fields, where larger design competitions could be too expensive or daunting.

Showcased on NTMA's web site and featured in print materials, the winning projects help communicate various design possibilities. Designed by Langdon Wilson Architectural Planning in Los Angeles, the Getty Villa Renovation in Malibu took the top honor as the 2005 Job of the Year. The museum desired to duplicate terrazzo and marble floors found in Pompeii and classic Italian structures. The association provides details on how projects are executed and provides contact information for architects interested in learning more. And to promote the artistic qualities of process, NTMA also provides a Special Art Award. This year, RTKL Associates, Inc. of Washington, D.C., took the prize for the Plaza Las Americas in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The 12-foot art medallion shows off the fluid design potential of terrazzo and sets the mood for the entire food court area, which is part of a one million square foot mall addition.

 

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Originally published in Architectural Record.
Originally published in June 2005

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