Connect Publications (allegrone.com)

Iredale Mineral Cosmetics - New Headquarters Progress

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

The adaptive reuse of the former Bryant School building, built in 1889, into the new headquarters of the Iredale Cosmetics Company is on schedule. The old roof has been removed and new structural steel has been installed to support an entirely new roof structure converting the former attic into Class A office space. The foundations for the new glass elevator tower are complete and ready for structural steel and glass walls, allowing for visitors to view the East Mountains across the Housatonic River as they ride the elevator from the lower level to the new third floor of this beautiful 1800's building.

‘Sunbelievable’ Solar Paint

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

Imagine being able to power your appliances via solar paint? And we all thought that the best way to go green with paint was sticking with zero VOC’s!

According to the Huffington Post, developers at the University of Notre Dame believe that green homeowners may be able to say hello to a new paint that can generate electricity via ‘power-producing nanoparticles.’ The paint looks no different than any other type of paint and may be able to be made in large quantities at a low cost. When hit by light, the particles are believed to produce small amounts of electricity that researchers hope can be magnified enough to power home appliances. Although still far behind the efficiency of solar panels, if improved, can this 'Sunbelievable' paint be a new wave of the future? Only time will tell.

Read the full article here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/22/sunbelievable-solar-power-paint_n_1166357.html?ref=green

A Look Back With Mayor Ruberto

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

As Mayor Ruberto took a look back at his 8 years in office, one of his greatest successes was the renovation and restoration of the Beacon Cinema center on North Street in Pittsfield.

Read the full article below as Mayor Ruberto reflects on his four consecutive two-year terms as Pittsfield’s Mayor and his substantial efforts towards the revitalization of downtown Pittsfield.

A New Way To Do Your Banking

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

At Berkshire Bank in Lenox, changes are being made to give the customers a more efficient and personal experience when they step inside to do their personal banking. Eliminating teller lines, the new concept offers speedier transactions, better accuracy and more personalized service.

Unlike a traditional bank, the layout is more open with a pod concept separated by partitions for privacy. The Lenox branch has received positive feedback from customers. According to Lenox Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Ralph Petillo, the Lenox branch was a great fit to launch the new teller configuration as the town has been a ‘stabilizing force’ for the economy in a time of economic downturn.

Berkshire Theatre Festival ‘Decks the Halls’ in Onota Building Storefront

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

After Allegrone Construction Co. purchased the Onota Building on North Street, Berkshire Theatre Festival decorated the empty storefront with beautiful holiday décor. The feature of their Christmas décor was a framed television that captures and displays everyone passing by.

The use of space by Berkshire Theatre Festival was a huge hit and enjoyed by many!

New Office Park Progress

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

Structural steel goes up at 150 Office Park in Lenox, MA.

Solar Power & Decentralization

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST

In an article written by Chris Keenan on greenbuildingelements.com, we can learn about the large benefits of solar power on our environment. Although the market is dominated by solar power on a smaller-scale installation, these installations can affect us largely overall. The future of solar power is likely to keep growing and therefore decreasing the use of fuels such as gas and oil.

Top 5 Kitchen Building Trends

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EDT

By now we could probably all have guessed that anything having to do with a “green” kitchen would be in the top building trends of any category, especially kitchens, but have you ever thought about having the ability to control your oven via the internet or your cell phone? That’s right, you can control your kitchen remotely!

Check out the article below by Julia Layton on howstuffworks.com. She tells you about the top 5 trends in kitchen design, from customizable concrete countertops to installing a high-def tv on your fridge. Kitchens aren’t just for cooking anymore!

http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/construction/planning/5-kitchen-building-trends.htm

It’s That Time of Year Again – Prepare Your Home For Winter!

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Temperatures are beginning to drop so it’s time to start thinking about making sure your home is in tip-top shape for the cold months ahead!

Here’s ten tips to help you prepare your home for winter - http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/qt/92607_WinterHom.htm.

St. James Church to be Restored into Performing Arts Center

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EDT

St. James Church in Great Barrington, MA is currently being restored to stabilize the historic structure. The congregation sold the property to parishioner, Sally Harris, who envisioned transforming the historic church into a performing arts venue and a center for non-profit organizations, both of which would be an exciting addition to the town of Great Barrington.

To read more on the restoration of St. James Church, refer to the article written in the Berkshire Record.

Composite Slate Shingles

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Allegrone Construction Co. is currently installing composite slate shingles at the new office location in Lenox. These slate shingles are rated with an SRI Index greater than 78, contributing to LEED credits pertaining to the Heat Island Effect.

Incorporating a reflective roof or green roof will help to reduce cooling loads, thereby lowering energy consumption and making for a more comfortable space.

Waiting to Purchase a Home? Wait No Longer!

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Home prices have fallen 31% since 2006 and mortgage rates are dangling at record lows. Waiting for home prices to plummet even further could result in losing out on these mortgage rates that are at an all time low. Playing “the waiting game” won’t result in very much gain!

"Make a Splash" - Unique Bathtubs

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Oversized showers are always a plus in any home but think twice before sacrificing that bathtub! If you have enough space, a bathtub can add unique style and become the focal point of the bathroom, in addition to relieving you of a stressful day.

Dealing With Surface Water Quality – “ The Calm During The Storm”

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EDT

The Stormceptor storm water treatment systems slow incoming storm water to create a non-turbulent treatment environment, allowing free oils and debris to rise and sediment to settle.

This storm water treatment technology will be used at Allegrone’s new office location at 150 Pittsfield Road in Lenox.

Best Day of the Week to List Your Home

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Listing your home on a Friday yields greater success in selling it. These homes were viewed 19% more by potential buyers than homes listed on any other day of the week.