ASTM is proposing a new standard to protect speech privacy and prevent noise distractions, known as WK47433. As a member of ASTM International, I was asked to vote on the proposed standard titled “Performance Specification of Electronic Sound Masking When Used in Building Spaces”, which was developed by Committee 33 on Building and Environmental Acoustics. The standard aims to “help keep sensitive conversations private” by keeping “sound that travels beyond the walls of a particular area, such as medical examination rooms and HR offices from being overheard by unintended listeners.”

May 27, 2026
Capital planning in commercial real estate has entered a new phase. In addition to traditional lifecycle replacements, managers now face a growing set of capital needs driven by energy ordinances, decarbonization goals, and climate risk. These drivers are no longer peripheral considerations; they are central to how capital plans are developed, prioritized, and executed.

June 05, 2026
Partner Property Consultants, the European subsidiary of Partner Engineering & Science, Inc. (Partner ESI), announces that Antoine Yeprem joined the company in June 2026 as Senior Consultant, Real Estate Due Diligence, in Germany.

June 04, 2026
When managed well, the Owner's Representative punch list process supports a clean project closeout. Issues are resolved before occupancy, reducing disruptions and protecting long-term asset value. By combining discipline, accountability, and the benefit of fresh eyes, an Owner’s Representative helps ensure the project is delivered as intended and ready for successful operation from day one.




