Industry Insights & News

Hard Maple vs Soft Maple: A Custom Millwork Guide for Architects and Designers | CooperBuild

Hard maple vs soft maple: understand the differences in hardness, stainability, and cost to spec the right maple species for your custom millwork project.

June 1, 2026

Types of Maple Wood: A Complete Guide for Custom Millwork & Cabinetry

Understanding maple wood types for custom millwork: hard vs soft maple, figured varieties, and how to choose the right type for your cabinetry project.

May 26, 2026

Resin Bound Surfacing: NYC Guide for Architects | CooperBuild

Resin bound surfacing for NYC projects: specification, cost, installation, and how it compares to asphalt and pavers.

April 24, 2026

Metal Stud Framing vs Wood Framing: What's Best for NYC Projects?

Metal stud framing vs wood framing for NYC projects. Code requirements, cost comparison, and when to use each.

April 16, 2026

Project Spotlight

How CooperBuild Delivered a Luxury Renovation in a 1928 Manhattan Co-Op

How we built a London townhouse inside a 1928 Greenwich Village co-op. As featured in Vogue Australia.

April 1, 2026

Matte Paint: Choosing the Right Finish for Interior Walls

Discover when to use matte paint on interior walls. Learn how matte compares to satin finishes, where each performs best, and how to choose the right finish for your project.

February 18, 2026

Industry Trends

Building Technology in Construction: Trends, Tools, and Best Practices (2026)

Explore how building technology in construction is transforming project delivery in 2026 through BIM, AI, IoT, and advanced materials.

February 10, 2026

What is Eggshell Paint and When Should You Use It?

Discover what eggshell paint is, how it compares to other finishes, and the best applications for this versatile low-sheen interior paint. Learn when to use it and when to avoid it.

January 23, 2026

Industry Trends

Sustainable Construction in 2026: A Guide to Greener Building Practices

Discover how sustainable construction in 2026 is transforming the building industry with greener practices, low-carbon materials, and net-zero goals.

January 15, 2026

Materials & Construction

Metal Stud Framing: Load-Bearing vs Non-Load-Bearing Walls & Installation Guide

Everything you need to know about metal stud framing: types, gauge selection, load-bearing applications, installation process, and when to choose metal over wood framing.

January 8, 2026

Materials & Construction

Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) in Florida Construction

A comprehensive guide to concrete masonry unit (CMU) construction in Florida, covering structural requirements, block types, architectural finishes, and energy performance for architects and designers.

December 30, 2025

Kitchen Design & Materials

Butcher Block Countertops: The Complete Technical Guide for Kitchens That Work

Everything you need to know about butcher block countertops: benefits, wood species, grain types, installation tips, and proper maintenance for lasting beauty.

November 14, 2025

Sustainability & Innovation

Decarbonization in Construction: Mandates and Technical Pathways

With strict global decarbonization mandates taking hold, your next project could succeed or fail based on how well you understand embodied carbon, digital design tools, and low-carbon materials. Discover how sustainable construction is evolving from trend to technical requirement, and what your team must do to lead in a carbon-constrained world. Don't just build. Build for the future.

November 5, 2025

The Best Custom Glass Shower Doors: Styles and Options to Consider

The best custom glass shower doors match your layout, provide water control, and use durable materials. This technical guide covers glass types, door styles, hardware, and installation best practices.

October 19, 2025

Design & Finishes

The Different Types of Wallpaper for Every Room in Your Home

Vinyl wallpaper is best for kitchens and bathrooms due to its moisture resistance. Fabric and textile wallpapers suit bedrooms and living rooms for their texture and warmth. Grasscloth and natural fiber wallpapers work well in low-traffic areas like home offices. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is ideal for renters or temporary updates in any room. Foil wallpaper adds shine to accent walls. Flocked wallpaper provides texture for formal spaces like dining rooms. Use paper wallpaper in dry, low-traffic areas such as guest rooms or ceilings.

October 7, 2025

What is Forbo Linoleum? Technical Applications in Floors and Furniture

Explore the technical characteristics, installation procedures, and practical applications of Forbo linoleum in both flooring and furniture. From durability to sustainability, learn why this natural material is making a comeback.

September 23, 2025

Rift Sawn Wood: Understanding Its Benefits and Unique Characteristics

Explore rift sawn wood's distinctive properties, cutting process, and applications. This comprehensive guide covers everything from grain patterns to pricing and practical tips.

September 15, 2025

What is Quarter Sawn Lumber? Definition, Process, and Why It's Preferred for High-End Woodwork

Quarter sawn lumber is sawn wood produced by cutting a log into four quarters and slicing each section at a radial angle to the growth rings. The result is narrower boards with a straight, linear grain pattern that is stronger, more stable, and less prone to cupping and surface checking compared to plain sawn lumber.

September 11, 2025

Sawn Wood: Types, Cuts, and Uses Explained

Sawn wood is timber cut into boards or planks from logs. It is classified by the method of cutting (plain sawn, quarter sawn, rift sawn), the processing applied (rough-sawn, planed, kiln-dried, air-dried), and the grading system. Each sawing method produces different grain patterns, stability, and cost implications.

August 20, 2025

MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) in Custom Millwork: Material Guide, Buying Tips, DIY Ideas & Installation Steps

Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) is an engineered wood product made from fine wood fibres, resin, and wax compressed under heat and pressure into smooth, dense panels. Discover why MDF is ideal for interior projects like furniture, cabinetry, shelves, wall paneling, and interior trim.

August 15, 2025

The Complete Guide to Cabinet Hinges: Types, Functions, and Uses

Though small and often hidden, hinges are the mechanical heart of your cabinetry. Discover the types, materials, and features that define quality cabinet hinges for your next project.

July 28, 2025

10 Must‑Have Kitchen Drawer Inserts for a More Organized, High‑Functioning Space

Explore the 10 essential kitchen drawer inserts that will help you achieve a clutter-free, efficient, and beautiful kitchen. From utensil trays to spice organizers, this guide covers it all.

July 13, 2025

Types of Lacquer Paints Used in Custom Cabinetry and Millwork

Explore the world of lacquer paints in custom cabinetry and millwork. This guide covers the main types, their benefits, and expert tips for achieving a flawless, durable finish.

June 30, 2025

Top Design Trends for Kitchen Pantry Cabinets in 2025

Explore the latest trends in kitchen pantry cabinets for 2025. This guide covers must-have features, materials, and expert tips for creating a stylish and functional pantry space.

June 15, 2025

Wood Baseboard vs. Wainscoting: Best Applications and Functional Differences

In luxury construction and design, architectural millwork like baseboards and wainscoting are critical components that define a space's finish, character, and perceived value.

June 9, 2025

Kitchen Design & Materials

Quartzite Countertops: Essential Guide for Designers & Luxury Homeowners

Everything you need to know about quartzite countertops for high-end kitchens: benefits, care tips, and design inspiration from CooperBuild's NYC projects.

May 10, 2025

Custom Wood Trim Complete Guide: Types, Styles, and Materials

Explore the world of custom wood trim and how it can transform your space. This guide covers styles, applications, and expert tips for achieving a high-end finish.

April 10, 2025

Your Essential Guide to Working with Alkyd Paint

Discover how to work with alkyd paint. Learn its key properties, benefits, and practical tips for smooth application and lasting results.

February 20, 2025

Blum REVEGO Pocket Door Systems - A Guide for Architects

Discover Blum REVEGO Pocket Door Systems in our comprehensive guide for architects. Learn how to integrate this innovative door solution into your home designs.

February 6, 2025

Top 10 Best Architecture Design Software in 2025 by CooperBuild

Discover the top 10 architecture design software of 2025! Find the best tools for designs, 3D modeling, and seamless workflows.

January 15, 2025

Custom Cabinets NYC - The Ultimate Guide to Space-Saving Mastery

Discover CooperBuild's guide to custom cabinets in NYC, maximizing space-saving mastery. Learn how to optimize your living space with bespoke cabinetry solutions.

January 6, 2025