Here’s To A Fresh Start

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

Bronzella Cleveland, Editor 

Happy Spring! Well, I hope it still feels like spring by the time you’re reading this. As you probably read in Dan’s note, I’m the new Editor of MASONRY DESIGN, Bronzella Cleveland. This is the first of many times you'll hear from me, and I can’t describe how excited I am for this publication.

What better way to kick things off than with a cover story written by the distinguished Malcolm Holzman? Be sure to check out the material selection process he chronicles; it’s definitely a must read.

Along with our cover article, this issue is filled with more stories that might pique your interest. From the healing powers of masonry in healthcare facilities to the restoration of the historic Burnside Bridge, we’re hoping to show the design world all facets of what masonry can do.

David Biggs provides insightful answers to industry-related questions in his new series. Make sure to check out his introductory Technical Talk With David Biggs. If you have any questions you’d like answered, feel free to pass them along to us and we’ll get them to David.

Resiliency is a crucial aspect in construction, especially considering the unfortunate weather and school safety issues we've encountered in this past year. That's why we spoke with Bill Coulbourne on material choices when it comes to storm shelter design. He covers his process and how masonry can be incorporated into the structures.

Sean Papich examines the growing popularity of outdoor living spaces. He covers all the trends that are seen in the industry from kitchens to fire pits, paving and more. Be sure to stop and read his first article in the Through the Eyes Of A Landscape Architectseries.

Software and innovation are constantly changing the process and pace of the construction industry. Make sure to look at two articles: one on BIM-M and one on Virtual Reality to help you stay abreast of all the latest developments.

We’ve been so excited to work on this publication since the MCAA acquired MASONRY DESIGN. There’s a ton happening behind the scenes, and a lot to look forward to in this and future issues.

We appreciate your readership and hope you enjoy our first issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together. Please feel free to pass along any comments, contributions, ideas you’d like to see in upcoming issues. You can email me at bcleveland@masonrymagazine.comor Dan at dkamys@masonrymagazine.com.

Enjoy Reading!

Stop Juggling: The Best Way to Master Your Masonry Job Sites
January 2026

You’re in the business of building structures that will stand for generations. Yet, too often, the process of managing the job site feels built on quicksand. Every construction project manager knows the feeling: the constant, fra

Brick Jointers: Purpose, Patterns, & Practical Applications
January 2026

After leads have been built and bricks have been laid, it’s crucial to tool the joints before the mortar sets. The tool of choice for this task is a brick jointer, but it can be tricky to decide which one to use. This guide will walk through the purpose o

Laying It Straight: Line-Holding Accessories for Masons Who Demand Precision
January 2026

When it comes to laying brick, block, or stone, nothing replaces a good line. A tight, true mason’s line is the backbone of straight courses and clean elevations, and the hardware holding that line is every bit as critical. Bon Tool’s lineup of Line & Lin

The Importance of Eye Protection in Masonry
January 2026

There are few stereotypes more iconic than the image of a construction worker wearing a hard hat and safety glasses. Protective glasses are among the most common items worn by workers in the masonry field, second only to the hard hat. According to OSHA, w