FIND A CONTRACTOR BUYER'S GUIDE
BECOME AN INDUSTRY PARTNER
MCAA Logo
MEMBER LOGIN JOIN
NEWS
World of Concrete 2026 Registration Is Open ↗

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
iQ Power Tools Joins as a Platinum Partner in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program
November 2025

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is excited to announce that iQ Power Tools has joined the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program (MAP) at the Platinum Level.

Industry News
Read More
Bonding with Masonry 2025: Q4
November 2025

This issue’s questions come from an Architect and an Engineer. What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk.

David Biggs
Bonding with Masonry
Read More
Hultafors Group Continues Gold Partnership in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program
November 2025

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is pleased to announce that Hultafors Group will continue its Gold partnership in the 2026 Masonry Alliance Program.

Industry News
Read More
Are you in the Insulated Concrete Block business? Then FTC Rule 460 applies to you…
November 2025

If you supply, sell, or use any of these… Pre-insulated concrete block... Loose-Fill Insulation... Injectable Foam-in-Place Insulation... Foam Plastic Inserts... Then you must abide by FTC Rule 460, 16 CFR 460, which governs R-value testing and claims

Bob Sullivan Richard Porter
Technical Talks
Read More