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!

Properties and Advantages of Brick Cavity Walls
June 2026

Many compound words are self-explanatory "descriptive names." Sunglasses are glasses that block the sun. A fireplace is a place to build a fire. A cavity wall is exactly that: a wall assembly that contains a cavity. Previously, this concept was used prim

The “Small Job” Safety Trap: Why Safety Sometimes Fades When the Spotlight Disappears
June 2026

Before I was fortunate enough to lead Malta Dynamics, I spent a couple of years as a traveling salesman for the company. My territory covered the entire country (and some beyond), and in a typical year, I visited more than 100 jobsites across nearly every

Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace
June 2026

As a business owner and leader, taking the mental health of your employees seriously and understanding how it can impact their work is essential. In fact, one in five adults experiences a mental health condition annually. Addressing mental health is more

Bonding with Masonry 2026: Q2
June 2026

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