Entries by Bleck Architects

Labor and Materials in Short Supply

Labor and materials are essential to the order and success of the construction industry. When there is an interruption in the supply of labor or construction materials, projects can be delayed. When labor and materials are in short supply, building projects require an especially creative design approach to reduce delays and avoid higher costs. Skilled […]

Our Favorite Things of 2014

Readers have told us they look forward to our annual Favorite Things blog post – thanks for the feedback! This year we have some really special products and services to share. Ready to get the scoop on our 7 favorite things? Let’s dive in! 1. Old World Craftsmanship makes a splashy comeback with Acme Construction […]

Santa Claus

Any child can tell you where Santa Claus lives. But there’s only one place in the US that can lay a special claim to the jolly old elf himself: Santa Claus, Indiana! Santa Claus, IN claims to be “America’s Christmas Hometown” Santa Claus is located in southern Indiana, about 45 miles east of Evansville, near […]

IAAPA: Big Starts Here

“Big Starts Here” was the theme of this year’s IAAPA Expo. Big ideas. Big rides. Big attractions. The Expo is the conference and trade show for the world’s largest amusement industry trade association IAAPA, serving family fun centers, amusement parks, theme parks & attractions, water parks & resorts, museums & science centers, and zoos & […]

All Hands On Deck: American Eagle Roller Coaster’s Launch

What does the expression “All Hands on Deck” have to do with a roller coaster? All hands on deck usually refers to the assembling of a ship’s crew (all hands) at their mustering point on the ship’s deck, as all personnel are needed for a major undertaking. In this case, in May of 1981 at […]

Smart Office Design – Is the Cubicle Dead?

Smart office design can make or break a business. Comfortable, well-designed office spaces support staff productivity and creativity and are a smart business investment. Gone are the days when offices were standard cubicles. Today’s designers embrace creative work environments that can stimulate minds, inspire innovation, and inject some personality into the work environment. The average […]

Should I become an Architect?

So, you’ve always wanted to be an architect? That’s great! Some of us come to that decision as adults and others have dreamed about it since we were kids. Our dad’s architecture firm was located in Waukegan and we both started out at the bottom: cleaning the office! Eventually we become draftsmen, interns, and eventually […]

Wood Flooring in Your Basement?

  Have you been thinking about installing wood flooring in your basement? We don’t blame you! The warmth and quality look of wood is very attractive. But wood and moisture do not mix, so be honest about your situation – wood flooring may not be appropriate for your basement floor. What are the options for […]

Batwing, Demonic Knot, and Cobra Roll, Oh My!

If your idea of the perfect vacation involves a Top Hat, Pretzel Knot, Immelmann Loop, and Corkscrew, then you are officially a roller coaster junkie. How many thrill elements can you name? Very few experiences can equal the adrenaline rush and stomach tightening provided by today’s coasters. That extreme experience does not happen easily; ride […]

What is a Flywheel Launched Coaster?

Remember when the simple pull of a ripcord sent your favorite toy car flying? Well, the concept for a flywheel launched coaster is very similar. A flywheel is a heavy revolving wheel used to generate power & stability. It is spun at high speeds to store rotational energy. Once enough electricity is stored, the energy […]

Carpet Tile: Design Flexibility in a Small Package

Carpet tile is a good choice for commercial flooring when you want a flexible product with a soft look and feel and sound-absorbent quality. We have specified carpet tiles frequently for general office spaces (including our own), restaurant banquet rooms, and medical facilities. Here’s what we like about carpet tiles: Appearance: Many colors, textures and […]

Stormwater Management Design – Keeping You High and Dry

Stormwater management design is critical to keeping our communities high and dry. Do you become alarmed when there is a big downpour and worry that your basement will flood? Are you concerned that your route to work will be blocked by flooded streets and highways? You are not alone. Cities and towns are concerned about stormwater […]

Fiber Cement Siding: Beauty & Brawn

Fiber cement siding is worthy of consideration for your next siding project. Fiber cement combines a fibrous material with a Portland cement binder to create a durable siding and trim product that looks as good as it is durable. When picking the right siding for your home or commercial project you want a product that […]

Architectural Glass: An Inside Look

Architectural glass is more popular than ever and is increasingly specified to achieve greater levels of daylight in buildings and for openness, transparency, and views. Building owners are seeking a modern, elegant appearance that projects a unique image for their brand. At the same time, more rigorous building and energy codes are dictating improved efficiency […]