Designing for today’s modern architectural challenges calls for innovative solutions that are able to serve as many people as possible while still meeting design goals. These solutions can help you achieve your goals and design for today as well as for the future.
1. Universal Design
Universal design is the practice of designing space so as many people as possible can use it without accommodations. VIVA Railings is committed to designing railing systems that are not only building code compliant but that also adhere to all ADA handrail requirements. By designing with everyone in mind, we are able to create railing systems for use by everyone regardless of their age or ability level.
As a result of this commitment, you can be sure that the railing system you choose will further your universal design goals allowing you to meet architectural challenges with confidence.
2. Biophilic Elements
Nature has had a way of weaving itself through designs and spaces since the beginning of time. Bringing plants indoors, using natural materials, or providing outdoor views—all are biophilic elements that help foster a stronger connection between indoor spaces and the natural world.
Using products like our MetalSpaces line can encourage cooperation between nature and the built environment. At Braintree South Middle School, for instance, a MetalSpaces panel installation acts as a sun control system while still allowing light to filter in and create engaging lightscapes inside.
3. Modern Aesthetics
The modern aesthetic is a sought after design in today’s architecture. To achieve a modern aesthetic typically means incorporating natural elements, like wood and natural light, creating open spaces that offer a certain amount of flexibility, as well as designing with clean lines and various textures — which can be a tall order. Tackling this architectural challenge means sourcing materials and systems that fit with a modern aesthetic.
4. Turnkey Solutions
Efficiency is paramount when designing and constructing buildings, and choosing turnkey solutions will help maximize efficiency which can lead to lowered cost and faster timelines. Prefabricated systems allow for faster installation, versatility, code compliance, and quality control while still allowing for a large range of customization options. When designing with architectural challenges in mind, it’s important to find turnkey solutions, like prefabricated handrail systems, that integrate with your project without having to start from scratch.
5. Durability
Building materials are tasked with keeping people safe and secure in the built environment. The materials that make up the building itself and the building envelope must stand up to changing weather conditions and wind loads along with meeting design goals. And interior elements must further these design goals, meet building code requirements, and stand up to use over time.
Handrails, both indoors and outdoors, experience frequent use and wear over time. Handrails on stairs and ramps are used for support and stability day in and day out. And railings for balconies as tasked with keeping users safe while they enjoy the view. VIVA Railing products are designed to be durable and safe. Our team can also help you choose the best railing system for your particular project and application.
At this multi-family residence project, for instance, the BEACONTM CableNet Railing System was a particularly appropriate choice because it not only offers enough stability and protection for people using the balcony, but it is stainless steel which offers corrosion resistance, making it ideal for coastal conditions.
6. Customizable Options
VIVA Railings offer prefabricated railing systems, but don’t think that means that they will all look the same — that couldn’t be further from the truth. Our systems, while pre-engineered, are fully customizable, allowing you to take on architectural challenges with confidence. From adding personality and excitement to the balcony design at the Cedars-Sinai Clinic at the Runway at Playa Vista to the fully customized railing system at Legacy Food Hall in Plano, Texas, thoughtful railing design enhances both function and visual appeal.
7. Sustainability
Designing in the modern age not only means designing for the current users, but it also means designing for the future and taking sustainability into account. Sustainable design considers the building materials used, how they are sourced, their lifespan, and their disposal options when they are at the end of their life. Using LEED certified materials promote sustainability and help projects earn LEED certifications to confirm the sustainability of their buildings.
All of VIVA Railings’ stainless steel products contain a minimum of 65% pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled content, with a minimum post-consumer recycled content of 25%.
Discover Innovative Solutions for Modern Architectural Challenges with VIVA Railings
Designing in the modern age means balancing the needs of all of the users with building code requirements, sustainability, durability, efficiency, and more. VIVA Railings offers innovative solutions to these architectural challenges through our use of sustainable materials, turnkey solutions, and customization options.
Contact the experts at VIVA Railings today to explore our options and see how we can help you meet modern architectural challenges with confidence.
