Dear Friends …
January 2027 will bring the adoption of a new Building Code for many states in which ODA Architecture is designing buildings. There are complexities and contradictions in all building codes, which are enacted to protect the public’s health, safety and welfare. Codes are written to ensure structural stability, fire prevention, safe evacuation and resistance to natural hazards like wind and earthquakes.
In my career, I have experienced the adoption of additional codes to address accessibility for individuals with disabilities, energy consumption, water conservation, sustainability and protection of historic buildings, among various other issues.
The most common “bible” of construction is the International Building Code (IBC), with amendments for different states. In addition to the IBC there are hundreds of codes that architects and engineers must adhere to in building design. Codes are constantly being modified and are often contradictory and require interpretation. Many regulations get overruled by differing codes, footnotes, asterisks, commentaries and trade publications.
Who interprets the grey areas in these codes? The Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) provides reviews and offers direction for complex interpretations. Higher judgements are granted by the Department of Insurance, Department of Justice, Department of Energy, National Park Service, etc. It is dizzying and is inevitable that these agencies have self-serving agendas, causing contradictions and confusion.
ODA Architecture provides our best professional judgment to ensure that our interpretations will protect the health, safety and welfare of the users, while protecting the client’s financial proforma. This requires weeks of research, interpretation and verification to minimize the contradictions between the various codes.
The code complexities and contradictions are often frustrating, but codes are beneficial to protecting our owners’ inhabitants and protecting their building assets. ODA Architecture looks forward to interpreting the complexities and contradictions in the new code to create quality and affordable buildings for our clients.
TAKING SHAPE
Matthews Self Storage Matthews, North Carolina
Four-story, climate-controlled storage building sitting prominently at the intersection of East Independence Blvd and Sam Newell Rd in Matthews, North Carolina. At approximately 70,000 SF, this project delivers quality, climate-controlled storage units. The exterior design pulls inspiration from the architectural language in Matthews.
Owner: Next Door Storage | Civil: Timmons Group | Structural: Taylor & Viola | PME: Wilde Engineering | Contractor: Landmark Builders
GOING UP
Outbox Storage South Boulevard Charlotte, North Carolina
This new four-story climate-controlled storage facility for Outbox Storage is under construction. This project will be part of a larger mixed-use development containing townhomes along with the storage spaces. The facility is designed to provide convenient, secure storage for the surrounding LOSO community as the area continues to grow.
Owner: The Providence Group | Civil: Landworks Design Group | Structural: Elevate Structures PME: Align Engineering | Contractor: JD Goodrum
Home2/Tru Athens Ground Breaking Athens, Georgia
The new Home2 Suites/Tru by Hilton Hotel in Athens, Georgia, recently broke ground. This hotel will be 5-stories of 144 guest rooms with an expansive lobby that includes a lounge, dining area, meeting space, fitness center, and pool. Outdoors, guests can enjoy multiple patio areas designed for relaxation and social gatherings, creating a comfortable and inviting experience.
Owner: Pentagon Hospitality | Civil: Carter Engineering | Structural: Taylor & Viola | PME: Wave Engineering Interior Design: Carver & Associates | Contractor: Ecker Construction
Newton Multifamily Ground Breaking Newton, North Carolina
Our latest residential building broke ground in downtown Newton, bringing much-needed housing to the city center. Drawing inspiration from Newton’s established architectural character and street grid while reinforcing the scale and rhythm of the downtown fabric, this multifamily project will create a cohesive presence along the street while contributing to the continued growth and vitality of the community.
Owner: David E. Looper & Co. | Civil: V3 Engineering | Structural: Taylor & Viola | PME: Wave Engineering Contractor: David E. Looper & Co.
EXTRA EXTRA
ODA Office Retreat
ODA took Charleston by storm last month as we “clocked out” for our annual retreat! From beautiful sunset sailboat rides to a crazy Holy City Scavenger hunt that took us all around Charleston, and cozy stays at the Marriott Charleston—we rode the Low country in High Spirits. We ate well, drank well, and had a great time spending out of the office.
