Presentations & Tours

Keynote Presentation, Saturday

STAIR DESIGN

Andrew P. DiGiammo, MCPPO

Architect, OPM, & Licensed Contractor

CJA PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Andrew is a registered architect with CJA Project Management. His straightforward, easy to understand approach will be appreciated by all conference attendees as he discusses how best to apply the fundamentals of design to assure the best stair aesthetic

MORE ABOUT ANDREW: 

Andrew P. DiGiammo is a registered architect and an unrestricted construction supervisor in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Rhode Island with 33-years of experience delivering on successful projects ranging from municipal buildings, multimillion-dollar corporate headquarters, medical facilities to multi-family and custom residential projects. As a licensed architect and contractor, Andrew has a complete understanding of how a building goes together from foundation to finishes and a keen knowledge of concrete, steel, masonry, and wood frame construction.

He has written many articles over the years on a variety of topics ranging from geometry to building site safety and has been a presenter at JLC Live. The process of writing and presenting helps to him reflect on past experiences and learn from both his successes and mistakes. It also has connected him with a network of colleagues and clients that he would never have had the pleasure of interacting with. 

“PROCESS” The natural order of things…….

His design process focuses on the natural forces and the timeless physical functions of the human body and all the interactions between the two. Ergonometric proportions, topography, sun path, prevailing winds, precipitation, vegetation, water table, vehicular and pedestrian access, existing structure, local history and the surrounding context must all be studied and utilized properly in the final solution. He uses these forces and functions as form determinates that shape and create interesting, efficient buildings and building components that are in harmony with their users and surroundings. He believes that “good design” is a result of a thorough knowledge of the users’ needs and building site, coupled with a true of understanding of methods and materials. Using this wholistic approach from concept to finish yields a built environment that is physically unified and spiritually uplifting.

“CONNECTIONS” The ordinary becomes extraordinary…….

With a strong belief that there is a “larger plan” at work on any given project, he is constantly searching for the “connections” that make all endeavors possible. He is fascinated by both the built connections such as bridges and stairs and the human connections between all the project participants. A building cannot be built or function without these connections that join both the structures physical spaces and levels, and the relationships between Owners, Designers, Builders and Users. When all elements are brought together and connected properly, the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

General Session Presentation, Friday

DESIGN VALUE

Mississippi State University

Our team from the Department of Sustainable Bioproducts at Mississippi State University (MSU) will speak on the design value testing project and explain how the project results will be utilized. They will also discuss the process for ensuring adoption by the engineering community and the next steps for the MSU, SMA and Forest Products Laboratory initiative.

Shop Tours, Friday

Join us as we tour Watson Mills & Design and Living Design Studios.

Watson Mills & Design specializes in design, fabrication, and installation of custom woodworking for monumental estates through the United States. They work with builders and developers on new construction and remodeling projects ranging in scope from several thousand to several million dollars. They are well-known around the US for producing highly complicated projects that result in true works of art.

Living Design Studios is a team of artisans who design and fabricate custom architectural and ornamental metalwork. Their work can be found in the finest homes in Aspen, celebrated civic spaces in Denver, and luxurious showrooms of retailers on Rodeo Boulevard. With the experience and expertise to work with brass, bronze, copper, steel, stainless steel, iron, aluminum, and zinc, Living Design Studios delivers innovative and imaginative finished products that time and again exceed artistic expectations.

Breakout Sessions, Friday

IMPACTFUL DESIGN

Join Andrew DiGiammo for this insightful breakout session on the impact building codes have on design, specifically with regard to new building methods and materials.

STAIR DESIGN PROCESSES

Learn from two SMA Members, Crown Stair and Heartland Stairways, as they take you through their stair design processes, from first contact through final payment. The team will share their successes, giving you key take-a-ways to implement in your next project.

SHOP TALK

Bill Bivona, from Hardwood Design, will lead this round table discussion as we talk about current issues being experienced throughout the stair industry. Tackle topics related to employee recruitment, employee retention, code compliant designs and more.