Find a contractor Buyer's guide Partner with us
MCAA Logo
Log in Sign up Join Hi, there Account
2026 Midyear Registration is OPEN
Find a contractor Buyer's guide Partner
Log in Sign up Join Account

University of Minnesota Bachelor of Design in Architecture Masonry Workshop

Words: Elena PeltsmanThe University of Minnesota 2015 BDA Masonry Workshop is a unique opportunity for architecture students to learn and practice masonry design and construction by working directly with the Apprenticeship Training Center and in conjunction with the International Masonry Institute (IMI).

MC&MCA Marketing Director Elena Peltsman was invited to participate in the University of Minnesota “Masonry Design and Construction” class as a guest speaker and substitute instructor. She and several MC&MCA members and allied professionals served as judges for a classroom design competition.

The design problem: to design a masonry structure on the campus of the University of Minnesota. The project deliverables includes a group digital presentation that includes the inspirational photos from their portfolio, original sketches and charrette ideas, journal, virtual or actual modeling, elevation and details, section detail showing flashing and moisture control as well as a construction site sample or “mock-up“ panel. Panels will include example assemblies of base, decorative wall elements, bonding patterns, top of wall accent, examples of moisture control systems, joint finishes, and display acceptable workmanship.

Four teams presented their work, and a creatively designed bench to be located on the West Bank plaza was selected as the winning project. The bench was comfortable to sit on, its scale and proportions were well designed, and it incorporated light fixtures in a creative way.
 0
Moisture in Masonry: A Key Concern
August 2026

As building envelopes become tighter and more performance-driven, clarity around moisture management in masonry applications is more important than ever. In masonry wall assemblies, where water penetration is expected and managed rather than eliminated, t

Technical Talks
Read More
Revailo Upgrades to Platinum in the 2026 and 2027 MAP
August 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is thrilled to announce that Revailo will upgrade their Silver partnership to a prominent Platinum partnership for the remainder of the 2026 MAP and for the duration of the 2027 MAP.

Industry News
Read More
Restoring Structural Integrity: Reinforcement in Masonry Buildings
August 2026

Masonry, as most of us in the trade know and appreciate, remains one of the most durable and time-tested structural systems in the built environment. Structures built throughout Europe and other parts of the world demonstrate that a masonry building is mo

Kate Vienna
Technical Talks
Brick Historic Restoration Repair & Restoration Restoration
Read More
Designing High-Performance Masonry Envelopes: Selecting the Right Air Barrier System
August 2026

Aric Hutchinson
Technical Talks
Air Barriers
Read More