Secure buildings do not have to be solid pillboxes. Explore innovative solutions in blast-resistant curtain wall and window design, allowing the design of secure buildings that are sustainable, filled with natural light, and livable. Discover how the force of a blast can affect abuilding. A design-build team will present landmark examples, including the Pentagon before and after the September 11 terrorist attack, the new Oklahoma Federal Building, and the U.S. Embassy in Moscow.
    Learning objectives:

• Discuss the real threats to buildings and their occupants from an explosion and appraise how typical glazed curtain walls, windows, and other building components behave during a blast
• Analyze examples of how buildings that are required to be secure can use blast-resistant glazed curtain wall to harden the exterior skin while giving the architect freedom to create sustainable, livable, interesting, and healthy interior environments
• Explore various and conflicting blast-resistant criteria with which architects have to comply in designing secure facilities and see detailed examples of building design resulting in creative, sustainable buildings