SUZANA RUTAR Architect, Ltd., A Professional Corporation

Bugshan Palace, located in the Hadramaut region of Yemen, is an architectural marvel that showcases the grandeur of traditional Yemeni mud-brick construction.

This impressive palace stands as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship.

Characterized by its towering multi-story structure and intricate decorative elements, Bugshan Palace reflects the historical significance and unique architectural style of Hadramaut, offering a glimpse into Yemen's storied past...

Emperor Hadrian got things rolling way back in 122 AD with the Zaghouan aqueduct in Tunisia. This bad boy is a prime example of Roman engineering at its finest. It stretched over a whopping 132 kilometers (that's about 82 miles) from Jebel Zaghouan to Carthage, making it one of the longest aqueducts in the Roman Empire. The bits and bobs leftover near Tunis show off some next-level hydraulic technology the Romans were rocking back in the day.

The aqueduct setup was a clever mix of underground channels and above-ground arches, carefully crafted to keep that water flowing smoothly. This setup made sure Carthage's public baths, fountains, and homes had a constant water supply, which was pretty essential for keeping the city ticking.

At Jebel Zaghouan, where the water started its journey, they even had a temple dedicated to Neptune, the Roman water god. It just goes to show how vital water was in Roman life. This old structure isn't just a testament to the Romans' hydraulic skills but also shows off how they seamlessly blended practicality and culture in their engineering projects. Pretty cool, huh?

Wow

Roman Mosaic Floor (2nd Century AD), at the House of the Tetrastyle in located inside P**a Archaeological Park, Nora, Sardinia, Italy.

Nora has been one of the most important Sardinian cities during ancient times and it is still considered one of best-preserved, most important historical sites on the whole island.

So cool. Wow

Pietragalla, Italy
In the province of Potenza, in Basilicata, there is the village of three thousand inhabitants called Pietragalla. Known by all for its "Parco dei palmenti". Recently also the FAI, the Italian Environment Fund has promoted its protection to elect it "place of the heart". 200 houses, represent a symbol of peasant civilization. Buildings that date back to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, although there are those who date them as early as the fourteenth century. They were once used for the production of wine, according to ancient traditions still known today. Over time this park has been recovered and made accessible thanks to the work of volunteers and local tourist guides.

Come join us.. the food is great and so are the presentations.. being a toy.. see you all there.

The Kailasha Mandir, Ellora - that can never be built again on Earth!

Entire Mandir was cut out from solid basalt bedrock, from top to bottom.

Nearly 4 lakh tons of stone was dug to create this marvel. Surprisingly no debris is found upto 100 kms radius of the Mandir.

These were not made only with chisels and hammers. But advanced Ancient Bharatiya Technology was used.

Wow

The Fort of the Berlengas stands as a stoic sentinel on Berlenga Grande, a rugged island off the coast of Portugal. Built in the 17th century, this fortress served as a crucial defensive bastion against pirates and foreign invaders who sought to challenge Portuguese sovereignty. Its strategic location atop sheer cliffs provided an unparalleled vantage point, commanding views of the surrounding sea, ensuring the safety of nearby Peniche and the mainland.

Constructed with robust limestone, the fortification boasts an imposing presence, its walls weathered by centuries of maritime exposure. Inside, a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, and battlements reveal the intricate engineering and military prowess of its builders. Visitors can explore the fortress's inner workings, gaining insight into its military history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.

Beyond its military significance, the Fort of the Berlengas is steeped in maritime lore and natural beauty. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and teeming marine life, the island offers unparalleled opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploration. Visitors can traverse rugged trails, discovering hidden coves and pristine beaches along the island's coastline.

Today, the Fort of the Berlengas stands not only as a testament to Portugal's rich maritime heritage but also as a beacon of conservation and eco-tourism. Protected as part of the Berlengas Nature Reserve, it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural and historical treasures for generations to come.

And we are so lucky to have such a wonderful team at our firm.

Home Buyer: I want a house built after 1980.
Me: Actually, you don't.
Let me explain.
Newer isn't always better, and this picture sums it up pretty well. The quality of modern lumber is simply far inferior to the quality of lumber they were using to build homes in the early and mid-20th century. Wood quality began dropping on a serious scale in the 1980s due to old-growth timber being almost completely depleted. Most wood used today is grown very fast - not only can you visibly see the difference in quality, but the newer lumber is more prone to rotting due to a lack of heartwood. Slow growth wood yields much more heartwood, which is the longest lasting part of the tree, whereas sap wood (new growth wood) will rot very quickly. Modern lumber is also a lot more prone to termite damage as it is softer and easier to consume whereas old lumber is extremely resinous and naturally termite resistant. A good rule - as long as the plumbing and electric has been updated, a well-built home from the mid-20th century is a better investment and will likely outlast a newer build. For more info on old growth wood versus modern lumber please read this great article: https://bit.ly/3h7MbBr

*Clarification: Yes, these two pieces of lumber come from two different trees. The expert in the attached article is not comparing the lumber of the same tree over time. He is comparing the lumber that was commonly used to build houses 75 years ago versus the lumber commonly used to build houses today.

SRA has an immediate position open for a Job Captain. See attached job description.

St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church project coming along!

Merry Christmas and Happy New 2024 Year!

Check out 'Twinkle all the Way' on JibJab.com Cast yourself as a decorator who'll risk life and limb to create the most dazzling Christmas display on the block!

Stephanie Industrial project coming along! 2 buildings completed, 1 almost completed, 2 under construction and 2 more to come!