Architecture Products

Editor's Bookmarks - November 2008

Each month RECORD reviews building product related web sites and blogs that might be of interest to our readership. We visit each site, kick the tires a bit, and share what it is about and how it functions. Please let us know if there is a site you've found particularly useful, well-designed, or easy to navigate. — Rita Catinella Orrell

www.vtindustries.com
VT Industries, a manufacturer of architectural wood doors, fine laminate countertops, and stone surfaces, has redesigned its Web site to be more user-friendly than the previous format, which had been patched together over the years. Specialized sections for architects allow them to quickly update their libraries, download specifications, register for continuing education courses, and view factory finish options.

www.sinapearson.com
For her redesigned site, textile designer Sina Pearson has connected more than 900 colorways to a sophisticated database that allows viewers to sort by color, collection, pattern, fiber content, finish, price, indoor vs. outdoor, name, number, durability, or sustainability. Visitors can download testing documents, cleaning instructions, or sustainability information from every specification page.

www.wausauwindows.com/ green/index.cfm
Wausau Window and Wall Systems’ expanded Web site includes a Green Building section that gives visitors 24-hour access to the company’s sustainable products and practices. The site’s new content includes a range of downloadable references, including details on the recycled content for the typical materials comprising an aluminum glazing system.

www.palaceofglass.com
Palace of Glass, a provider of high-end art-glass installations based in Southern California, offers a database of images on its Web site searchable by either glass type (deep-carved, cast, stacke, etc.) or design. The site also serves as a great source of information on art glass in general, including a glass glossary, and illustrated chapters on the history of glass and modern types of glass.