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March 2024

C&W: The bright side of office: Opportunities in the urban core

Cushman & Wakefield's new report, The Bright Side of Office: Opportunities in the Urban Core, explores some of the optimistic factors working in favor of office space in North American urban centers. Dating back to 2020, the company says it recognized that increased remote work would create sustained impacts on occupier demand, and that the nature of office would need to evolve as a result. It also anticipated that some portion of existing office stock would be obsolete, that the glidepath to recovery would take some time, and that owners should be realistic about the outlook for 2024.


Acknowledging those headwinds, this report examines several positive factors that are working in favor of a recovering office market.

  1. The population out-migration trends in large cities that accelerated early during the pandemic are returning to long-term norms. While the pandemic disproportionately impacted urban cores of cities, some of the demographic shifts at the height of the pandemic were temporary. People still want to live in large, vibrant cities.
  2. The supply-side boom is quickly unwinding, and new office deliveries will be historically low in the middle of this decade. Top-tier office product is very much in demand. Less new construction will be delivered; however, welcome opportunities arise for renovated offices and assets slightly further down the value chain.
  3. Occupiers have been right-sizing their portfolios, but much of the effects of increased remote and hybrid work environments have filtered through the system.


Read more . . .

Forbo's climate-positive Marmoleum Solid flooring boosts well-being

Marmoleum Solid contributes to the well-being of individuals by bringing nature inside, creating healthy spaces to work, learn, heal and play. The Solid collection is minimalistic, pure and timeless, providing a long-lasting foundation that never goes out of style and mixes well with other interior finishes. Made from natural, renewable and recycled materials, Marmoleum is unique, as carbon dioxide emissions are absorbed by its raw materials. The combined photosynthesis of all plants used in Marmoleum achieves CO2 uptake that is greater than the CO2 emissions resulting from production and transportation.


Marmoleum relieves the environment of carbon dioxide, and it is climate-positive from cradle-to-gate, without offsetting. Marmoleum’s natural ingredients provide it with inherent anti-microbial and anti-static properties that won’t diminish over time, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. Marmoleum Solid’s Topshield Pro finish provides the best in durability, with lasting wear performance and improved stain-resistance, including those from hand disinfectants.

USGBC’s crucial report outlines pathways for all 50 states to achieve decarbonization targets for commercial real estate

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), developer of the LEED green building program, recently released a first-of-its-kind report on the U.S. commercial real estate sector. Surveying three decades of data, the State of Decarbonization: Progress in U.S. Commercial Buildings 2023released at COP28, found the U.S. has made vital, yet unequal, progress in decarbonizing commercial real estate.


Produced in collaboration with the global sustainable development firm Arup, this inaugural State of Decarbonization report is touted as the first of its kind to deliver both key historical data and targeted opportunities for future improvement. Importantly, the report identified high-opportunity areas that can be decarbonized faster, such as deep retrofits in refrigerated warehouses, where emissions grew in recent years, and older commercial buildings, where pre–1980 buildings account for nearly 40% of gross commercial floor area in the U.S. and could utilize nearly half of the expanded commercial energy efficiency tax deduction in 2022’s Inflation Reduction Act, a key lever for decarbonization per the report.


Read more . . .

One week to go to join us at NFMT: We Are FM shines with abundant education sessions, networking, solutions and emerging new tech

It’s almost time to join fellow facility managers at NFMT who are seeking training, because new tech, building operations and maintenance techniques are always emerging. For FM leadership and the staff they manage, it’s important to keep abreast of developments through education and visiting with suppliers. Training, networking and products have a solid home at NFMT 2024, the National Facilities Management & Technology show in Baltimore, March 12-14, themed, “We Are FM.”


McMorrow Reports & FMLink subscribers can unlock Pro Level Access ($49 regular cost) for free when they register using use promo code: MCMORROW.


The McMorrow Reports & FMLink always attend NFMT, the first show of the year, eager to engage in the education sessions and hear about ideas and solutions while exploring sessions that are relevant for our readers. Our education picks include:



NFMT offers educations sessions in the following tracks: Asset ManagementEnergy & Sustainability; Future Trends; Health & Safety; M&O; Security; and Technology.


Read more . . .

Get results. BOMI's graduates did.

As a premier international provider of workforce development and educational products, BOMI is dedicated to improving the skills of professionals with property, facilities and engineering responsibilities. BOMI's programs serve professionals in the commercial real estate industry, including office, industrial, retail, hospitality, healthcare, government and educational buildings.


The Institute's industry-recognized courses and programs have been proven to reduce operating expenses, increase overall efficiency, and enhance individual performance, adding value to any organization and making BOMI the trusted source for education by industry professionals and employers. But don't just take their word for it.


The BOMI learner survey results are in:

  • 99% improved their subject knowledge with BOMI programs
  • 97% improved their job performance and overall career
  • 94% say BOMI programs exceeded their expectations
  • 99% would recommend BOMI programs to a colleague

 

What are you waiting for? Advance your career today! Get started >>

Fast reads . . .

Top 10 ceramic tile trends


Verdantix: 2023 leaders in energy management software


Specifiers can compare the sustainability of fenestration assemblies under this rule


• Benchmark energy use with ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager Data Explorer tool


A profile of Alana Dunoff: The psychology of people and buildings (ARC Facilities)

April 22-25: Behold the bold at Coverings 2024 — tomorrow's trends in tile and stone, held in Atlanta

The ultimate destination for inspiration, Coverings is one of the most important design and specifying events of the year — where tomorrow’s trends are revealed, educational opportunities abound, and new connections are made. Stay ahead of the conversation as you meet global exhibitors, experts and artisans who keep the tile and stone industry excitingly innovative and breathtakingly beautiful. No matter the project, you’ll find timeless, sustainable and awe-inspiring solutions at Coverings. 


Architects and designers have the opportunity to bring their facility manager clients to Coverings to see the latest trends and find inspiration for their next remodeling project. Registered architects and designers can be joined by up to two client guests, at no cost to them or their clients, as they peruse thousands tile and stone innovations on display by 1,000+ global exhibitors. The Bring Your Client to Coverings program is a huge hit with architect and designer attendees because it keeps their clients involved in the design process and exposes them to the wealth of options and resources available in the marketplace.


Claim your complimentary pass for Coverings, April 22-25 in Atlanta.

Millennial & Gen Z women in facility management and design are embracing business networking models like NextUp’s

NextUp, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing all women in business, saw its membership grow to a record-breaking 17,131 members and 100+ corporate partnerships in 2023. This surge is attributed to the influx of women in business, especially Millennials and Gen Z’ers who now make up 38% of NextUp's members. One of the preeminent member associations in the United States, especially in areas where Fortune 500 companies are located, such as in northwest Arkansas (Walmart’s headquarters) and Cincinnati (Kroger and P&G headquarters), NextUp has many education, training and networking options. Women in facility management, interior design and architecture who are looking for opportunities to connect can investigate a regional community.


NextUp also attributes much of its recent success to its “You Are NextUp” campaign, which showcases more than 100 NextUp members and leaders from companies across the country, such as Coca-Cola, General Mills, Hallmark, Target and more, who highlight the power of what women can do in business. “NextUp has seen a huge surge in young members,” notes Lisa Baird, CEO of NextUp. “We know that young women tend to feel some isolation when starting their careers. It’s often hard to find mentors and advisers when working remotely or jumping in and learning in a very fast-paced environment."


NextUp Membership is open to individuals or members of a partner organization. When you join NextUp through The McMorrow Reports/FMLink, you are entitled to 20% off an individual membership when you enter the code: NextUp24McMorrow at checkout. Visit NextUp for more information. 


Read more . . .

Matte Bronze frame finish adds durable elegance to ALUR glass wall

Aligned with the growing demand for warmer color palettes, glass wall manufacturer ALUR has introduced the latest addition to its array of frame finish options: Matte PVDF Medium Bronze.


Distinguishing itself from traditional powder coatings, ALUR’s PVDF coating offers an unparalleled level of longevity and resilience. While powder coatings tend to experience fading over time, PVDF coatings retain their vivid hues and lustrous appearance for significantly extended periods. Elevate your projects with confidence by adding a touch of timeless elegance using ALUR’s PVDF Finish Options, which include four Matte and five “stunning” Metallic PVDF finishes.


Find out more about the award-winning ALUR Glass Wall at ALUR.


Read more . . .

AVL Spec Builder tool saves architects time by streamlining the acoustical design and specification process

AVL Systems, a provider of decorative interior acoustic solutions for noise control applications via sound absorption, diffusion and reflection, has unveiled a new online Spec Builder tool. The AVL Spec Builder streamlines the acoustical design and specification process into three simple steps: Architects 1) input their project details, 2) select one or multiple AVL acoustical products, and 3) download and/or email their custom specifications. The AVL Spec Builder saves time for architects by delivering custom specifications that are ready to use, without editing, all from a single source.


To use the AVL Spec Builder, start by entering the project name and location along with your company name, branch location and email address. Next, select from the product category menu of AVL’s product lines: Absorption, Diffusion, Reflection, Fabric & Vinyl, Decorative Coated Finishes, 3D Forms & Shapes, and Wood Products. From the second drop-down menu, select a product and corresponding details. For instance, in the category of Absorption, you could select AcousTech Wall & Ceiling Panels and then customize your panel thickness, edge detail, fabric selection, and fastener information. Additional categories and products can be added as needed, and once all products are selected, a simple click generates a customized specification document.


Read more . . .

BOOK OF THE WEEK

The 2024 Architect's Square Foot Costbook offers accurate, up-to-date costs for a wide variety of building projects

This week's Featured Book from FMLink's Books section is from the Architecture category. This collection of peer-reviewed books has been curated by the editorial team at FMLink to provide facilities, engineering and A&D professionals with access to publications relating to the Architecture topic.


This is the square-foot estimating guide created specifically for architects.

The 2024 Architect's Square Foot Costbook puts right at your fingertips accurate square-foot costs broken down by CSI division for an incredible variety of actual building projects. This year's edition focuses on today's most robust growth markets: Public Construction, Educational and Industrial. The new optional Plus+ Version includes a fully bookmarked pdf eBook, along with an Excel database file featuring interactive square foot cost models as well as detailed unit costs you can use to search / copy / paste the data from the book!


This and other Architecture titles are now available for purchase on FMLink.

FAA: Nearly $1 billion in grants will improve passenger experience, accessibility and sustainability across these 114 airports

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding $970 million from President Biden’s Bipartisan Investing in America agenda to 114 airports across the country, spanning 44 states and three territories. This announcement by Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg is intended to deliver on President Biden’s commitment to rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure while lowering costs for families, creating good jobs, and advancing opportunity for all Americans.


This funding helps meet the growing demand for air travel and launches projects that will improve passenger experience, accessibility, and sustainability while creating good-paying jobs. Investments enhancing the passenger experience include new baggage systems, larger security checkpoints, increasing gate capacity, and modernizing aging infrastructure throughout terminals and ground transportation. These investments further increase terminal sustainability and improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Nine grants will address the needs of aging air traffic control towers. 



Read more . . .

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