At Penney Design Group, continuing education is more than a professional requirement—it is an essential part of how we deliver thoughtful, high-performing architecture. Through our ongoing AIA Lunch & Learn series, we intentionally bring together experts from across the building industry to expose our team to emerging technologies, evolving standards, innovative materials, and best practices that influence every aspect of the built environment.

The value of these sessions lies not only in the knowledge shared, but also in the diversity of perspectives they provide. Our educational programming spans the full spectrum of architecture—from large-scale building systems and structural performance to interior environments, occupant wellness, sustainability, and the finer details that shape everyday user experiences. By understanding how these elements work together, our architects and designers are better equipped to create buildings that perform well, endure over time, and support the people who use them.

Sika: Concrete Repair and Protection of Parking Structures

Our session with Sika focused on the challenges and solutions associated with concrete deterioration in parking structures. The course provided a comprehensive overview of the root causes of concrete damage, including cracking, spalling, and corrosion, while emphasizing the importance of conducting thorough condition surveys before selecting repair strategies. Participants learned about various repair techniques such as epoxy and urethane injection, crack sealing, spall repair methods, and corrosion management systems. The presentation also explored protective coatings, sealers, and traffic-bearing systems that help extend the service life of parking structures. This course reinforced the importance of proactive maintenance and informed material selection when designing or rehabilitating concrete structures.

 

Federated Lighting & SkyView: Healthy Lighting and Circadian Support

Federated Lighting and SkyView introduced our team to the growing field of circadian supportive lighting and its impact on occupant health and wellbeing. The course examined how lighting influences the body’s natural circadian rhythms and highlighted design strategies that can support healthier indoor environments. Attendees gained insight into the latest RP-46-25 guidelines and learned how factors such as light color, spectrum, and application efficiency play a critical role in achieving circadian lighting goals. By exploring innovative approaches to lighting design, the session demonstrated how architects and designers can create spaces that not only meet visual requirements but also positively influence comfort, wellness, and productivity.

Flex Roofing Solutions: Benefits of Thermoplastic Single Ply Roofing Systems

Flex Roofing Solutions presented an informative session on thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems and their advantages in commercial construction. The course covered the fundamentals of both single-ply and multi-ply roofing assemblies while highlighting the durability, energy efficiency, and sustainability benefits of thermoplastic membranes. Particular attention was given to Energy Star-rated products, Cool Roof Rating Council approvals, and how roofing selections can contribute to LEED certification goals. The presentation emphasized the role of roofing systems in reducing energy consumption and improving overall building performance, providing valuable insights for architects seeking environmentally responsible roofing solutions.

 

Dyson: Touch-Free, Hygienic, and Sustainable Hand-Drying Solutions

Dyson’s presentation explored the evolving role of hand-drying technology in commercial restroom design. The course focused on air knife hand dryers and the features that contribute to their hygienic performance, including touch-free operation, HEPA filtration, and rapid drying capabilities. In addition to discussing hygiene and user experience, the session examined the environmental benefits of hand dryers, including reduced energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, decreased operational costs, and minimized waste compared to paper towel systems. The course also reviewed sustainability certifications, LEED and WELL building standards, and best practices for restroom design in both new construction and renovation projects. The discussion offered a valuable perspective on how seemingly small design decisions can support broader sustainability and wellness objectives.

Havwoods: Wood and Wellbeing

Our Lunch & Learn with Havwoods explored the growing connection between material selection, occupant wellbeing, and healthy building design. The presentation examined the concepts of healthy buildings and healthy materials, emphasizing the important role that natural materials can play in creating welcoming, restorative environments. Participants learned about the psychological and biophilic benefits associated with wood surfaces and how thoughtfully integrating wood into interior spaces can contribute to occupant comfort and wellbeing. The session also looked toward the future of sustainable design and highlighted how architects can balance aesthetics, performance, and wellness when specifying materials. With nearly five decades of experience in wood surface design, Havwoods provided valuable insight into how natural materials continue to shape healthier built environments.

A Holistic Approach to Design Excellence

While each of these presentations focused on a different aspect of design and construction, together they reinforced a common theme: great architecture is the result of informed decisions at every scale. A parking structure repair strategy affects a building’s longevity. Roofing selections influence energy performance and sustainability. Lighting impacts human health and productivity. Restroom fixtures contribute to hygiene, maintenance, and operational efficiency. Material choices shape how people experience and connect with a space.

These Lunch & Learns help our team look beyond individual products and understand the broader relationship between building performance, occupant wellbeing, sustainability, and long-term value. They also provide opportunities to engage directly with manufacturers and industry experts, allowing us to ask questions, evaluate emerging solutions, and stay current with rapidly evolving technologies and standards.

At Penney Design Group, investing in continuing education is an investment in our clients and our projects. By continually expanding our knowledge and understanding of the products, systems, and ideas shaping the industry, we strengthen our ability to deliver innovative, durable, sustainable, and people-centered design solutions.