Registration & Deadlines

Registration, one of the most important milestones for an architect, is not for everyone. While some architecture interns find alternative careers, many follow the traditional architecture path and pursue licensure. The Ohio Board of Examiners data suggests that in the past decade a median of 61% of new exam candidates during the same time became licensed.

The first national licensing exam for architects produced by NCARB came out in 1965. Since then several aspects of the registration process have been redefined - if not all. The Internship Development Program (IDP), the Architectural Registration Examination (ARE), and the NAAB accredited degree requirements have all changed since then. "Every time there is a major change, candidates are motivated to finish the exams and get licensed," says Amy Kobe Executive Director with the Ohio Architects Board.  The graph below (Figure 1) shows the numbers of newly licensed architects since 1984, which spiked around 1994 and 2009.

Figure 1 - Ohio Board of Examiners Registration Database

In 1994, Ohio adopted IDP training as a registration requirement. The new  qualifications seemed cumbersome in comparison and motivated interns to become eligible ARE candidates sooner. They tested and did quite well. Over 200 architects registered in the state in '94. The curve spikes again in 2009. We suspect it was largely caused by the ARE 4.0, introduced nationwide as a seven-exam module in July 2008. The last date to test in the old ARE version was June 30^th 2009. The deadline motives interns to complete all tests and slightly increased registration numbers once again. "It is amazing what a deadline will do," Kobe adds.

Currently, ARE candidates face another deadline: the 5-year rolling clock, a rule that would limit testing periods to only 5 years. If you had been taking any of the ARE before January 1^st 2006, NCARB, you had until January 1^st 2011 to pass them. If you have not started yet, you must complete all exams in a 5-year period, beginning on the date you take your first exam.

In 2010 alone, only 74 interns became licensed in the state of Ohio. However, as the rolling-clock rule expires, interns nationwide will be motivated to test. The clock is ticking now, no pun intended.

Become an architect...

in less than 10 minutes..!

 Ok, it typically takes less than 10 years. 

But this one is a fun shortcut.

Replacing Existing Single Pane Windows

Good old windows, charming but drafty. To fix the problem, we hear the solution is to replace them entirely. Sure a single pane window doesn't offer the best U-value available, but don't to run to the closest hardware store just yet.

A double pane window sounds more energy efficient than its single pane counterpart. It became available in the 70's as an improvement and solution to the heat loss single panes represented. Nowadays, window solutions go above and beyond contractor grade. You'll find low emissivity glass, tinted windows and triple pane fenestrations with argon gas, just to name a few. All with the promise to keep your heating bills low. But exactly how much will you save?

The average window and installation runs for 400 US dollars. Is it worth the investment? That depends how long you are willing to wait. We have run into this very interesting article that you should read before tearing out your old windows. This article does the math and suggests that the ROI is well over 20 years. We assure you you'll think twice before going for this big investment. Adding storm windows sounds just a good.

PD. To play devil's advocate, we can argue that getting new windows will greatly increase the curb appeal of your home, increase the potential sell value of your home and get you a tax credit in 2011 when using Energy Star labeled windows... Something to think about. 

Ongoing JCAHO News

For JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) updates, news and related subjects online, this website comes useful.

Floating Fireplaces

Most likely you are in the middle of winter, just like us, waiting for those sunny and green days again. Sadly, a few more cold gray days are still ahead. To keep you warm, we have found these beautiful and iconic fireplaces:

GYROFOCUS by Focus Creation. This made-in-France model was designed by Dominique Imbert in 1968. The signature model has been voted one of the "World's most beautiful objects". With a Jetsons feel-like style, it is the fist fireplace of its kind: wood burning and pivoting. 

TURN by Conmoto. Also a wood burning and ceiling mounted fireplace, it rotates 360 degrees as its own name suggests. One additional feature that makes it different from the Gyrofocus: a floor support, which can be added for a more solid structure. A simple line German model with a contemporary look.

Both great alternatives to help you cold with these winter days. Also ideal solutions when you are in search of something different, eye catching and non traditional.

Stay warm!