• Thu. Sep 28th, 2023

    New Trends in Building Products: Simpler, Smarter, and Sustainable

    ByEmma Wolukau-Wanambwa

    Sep 19, 2023
    New Trends in Building Products: Simpler, Smarter, and Sustainable

    Building products are undergoing a significant transformation to become easier to install, safer to use, and more sustainable. From structural elements to surface materials, these products are designed with streamlined installation processes, imitation of natural materials, and a focus on worker and user safety. Aspire, a leading brand in the industry, has introduced a line of stone-look recycled rubber and plastic pavers that are not only environmentally friendly but also meet LEED standards.

    One notable trend is the use of durable recycled ingredients in building materials. This includes interlocking paver systems that offer better drainage and flexibility compared to poured concrete. Aspire offers interlocking pavers in various sizes and colors, providing a wide range of design options.

    Integration of controls and keypads is another area of focus for building product manufacturers. With recessed mounting hardware, such as the Flush Mount for Lutron Pico, controls can be seamlessly integrated into any surface, resulting in a visually smooth and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

    In the healthcare industry, collaborative efforts between designers and manufacturers have resulted in innovative solutions. For example, Construction Specialties has developed an Acrovyn Curved Door that is specifically designed to work with space-saving radius walls, improving sight lines for medical staff and enhancing patient care.

    Aesthetic appeal is also an important consideration in building products. The Otto collection, a collaboration between Float Studio and Modern Matter, offers simplified and softened profiles of kitchen pulls, handles, and hooks that fit well with transitional styles.

    Sustainability is a key driver in the development of building products. Genesis Products has introduced Qwel Designer Acoustic Tiles made of recyclable, washable, and heat-molded PET fibers. These tiles contain up to 50% recycled material and have zero chemical treatment, making them mold-resistant and highly effective in absorbing sound.

    In the outdoor decking industry, Millboard has created a weathered oak composite decking that mimics vintage wood floorboards. This innovative material is insect-, rot-, and warp-resistant, providing a durable and low-maintenance solution.

    Addressing the need for easy organization, Hardware Resources offers a preassembled rollout organizer that streamlines kitchen build-outs and provides additional storage options for bottles and cookware.

    Other notable innovations include Nakamoto Forestry’s Yakisugi Siding, which utilizes an ancient preservation process to enhance the durability of wood without the use of chemicals. Owens Corning has developed Ultra-Pure spray foam insulation with a low-VOC formula that meets rigorous environmental standards.

    Overall, the building product industry is embracing simpler, smarter, and more sustainable solutions. These innovations not only enhance the functionality and aesthetics of buildings but also contribute to a greener and more eco-friendly future.

    Sources:
    – Aspire by Brava: aspirepavers.com
    – Kaynemaile: kaynemaile.com
    – Construction Specialties: c-sgroup.com
    – Modern Matter: modern-matter.com
    – Genesis Products: qweltiles.com
    – Millboard: millboard.com
    – Atlas Hardware: atlashomewares.com
    – Hardware Resources: hardwareresources.com
    – Nakamoto Forestry: nakamotoforestry.com
    – Owens Corning: owenscorning.com
    – Arcitell: qoracladding.com
    – AZEK: timbertech.com