When the University of Wisconsin School of Business officially opened the Learning Commons last May, it kicked off the first step in realizing the university’s grand masterplan to renovate the library buildings across the Madison campus. “The design strategy for this Learning Commons space included connecting the east and the west wings of Grainger Hall. Transparency was a key principle for making this happen,” says Scott Kammer, AIA at Potter Lawson. Incorporating transparency between spaces extended to the stairwells as well. To meet the design intent and code requirements, the architects decided to use clear, fire resistive glass walls.
Traditionally, stairwells have been relegated to the back of the building and usually reserved for emergencies as their dark, isolated surroundings made it unappealing for everyday use. The lack of vision and transparency also made it a prime spot for attacks. This all changed with the advent of clear, fire resistive glazing able to meet the ASTM E-119/UL 263 wall standard up to 2 hours. Using transparent building materials that incorporate vision and code-compliance made it possible to design stairwells that are more centrally located instead of being tucked away in the back.
This was the case for the Learning Commons. “The existing building had two separate stairs that only connected two floors each. The centrally located stairwell connected all three levels of the Learning Commons and contributed to the wayfinding experience for the users. It was critical for this stairwell to be as clear as possible to see through the space,” adds Scott.
Image created by MSR.
During the design phase, Scott worked with Mike White at SAFTI FIRST to explore his options. “Mike was very responsive and answered our questions in a timely manner. He included photos of similar projects, which helped us specify exactly what we needed. He was very helpful in determining if the products would work with our budget at an early stage of design,” says Scott.
To achieve maximum transparency while meeting code requirements, the architects specified 9 ft. tall, clear, fire resistive butt-glazed walls using SuperLite II-XLM in GPX Architectural Series perimeter framing. Instead of vertical mullions, SuperLite II-XLM uses a slim, 6mm butt-joint between the fire resistive glass panels to allow as much transparency as possible while still meeting the fire resistive ASTM E-119/UL 263 wall requirement.
The entrances to the stairwell also maximized vision and transparency without sacrificing safety. Building codes in the USA limit ceramics and other fire protective glazing to 100 sq. in. in the vision panels of 60-90 minute doors in interior exit stairways, ramps and exit passageways regardless if the building is fully sprinklered. To exceed the 100 sq. in. door vision panel limitation, fire resistive glazing tested to ASTM E-119/UL 263 must be used.
Photo: Olivia Nass.
That’s exactly what the architects did for this project. For maximum vision and transparency, they specified full-vision temperature rise doors using an ASTM E-119/UL 263 rated assembly comprised of GPX Architectural Series Doors with SuperLite II-XL glazing. The doors also matched the 9-ft. height of the clear, fire resistive butt-glazed panels adjacent to it. With other aluminum temperature rise doors having a maximum height of 8 ft. tall, going with the GPX Architectural Series aluminum temperature rise door at the full 9 ft. height eliminated the need for a transom above the door. These doors do not require a mid-rail and were supplied with custom access hardware at the architect’s request for enhanced security.
SAFTI FIRST worked closely with Omni Glass & Paint during the installation phase. Even though fire resistive butt-glazed walls are a relatively new product in the market, the installation was a pretty smooth process. “I spoke with our installers and they did not see much of a difference in the captured and butt-glazed systems as far as ease of installation,” says Robert Leffel of Omni Glass & Paint. “The service from SAFTI FIRST was good. They did all they could to minimize delays,” he adds. SAFTI FIRST’s sales and project management teams were in constant communication with Omni throughout the bidding, submittal, fabrication and delivery stages.
The result is a visually stunning, code-compliant stairwell enclosure that helps connect the various spaces in this state-of-the-art Learning Commons that is sure to be enjoyed by students, faculty and visitors for years to come.
Related Stories
Glass and Glazing | Mar 15, 2015
Building tech breakthrough: Vacuum insulated panels keep University of Alaska students cozy in sub-zero temps
In a first-of-its-kind curtain wall installation, triple-pane VIP glass panels provide an astonishing R-40 insulation value at the university's new student union in Fairbanks.
Sponsored | Fire-Rated Products | Feb 12, 2015
State of the fire rated glazing industry
Many years have passed since my days as the “Wired Warrior,” writes SAFTI FIRST's Bill O'Keeffe. Every year at this time I reflect on just how far the fire-rated glazing industry has come.
Sponsored | | Jan 27, 2015
High-performance insulation brings design freedom, energy efficiency to urban redevelopment project
When developers of Uptown Bay City (Bay City, Mich.) began transforming the former industrial site into a mixed-use, self-sustaining riverfront community, they faced a design challenge. How could they incorporate greater expanses of glass to maximize views of the waterfront without the trade-off in energy efficiency?
Sponsored | | Dec 30, 2014
First-class glass: Designing for fire safety in schools
As more students enter the school system each year, designing for fire safety in educational facilities has never been more critical. Fire-rated glazing can be a key part of the solution.
Sponsored | | Dec 11, 2014
Fire rated glass contributes to Salt Lake City Public Safety Building’s sustainable and resilient design goals
One of the most exciting new buildings to open its doors this year is the Salt Lake City Public Safety Building Salt Lake City, Utah. This $125 million, 335,000-sf facility blends sustainability and resiliency under one roof. SPONSORED CONTENT
Sponsored | Fire-Rated Products | Dec 11, 2014
Fire rated glazing provides visual appeal and safety to garages
When it comes to designing parking garages, providing vision and transparency might not be the priority due to fire rated code requirements – but keen architects with grand visions see opportunities rather than restrictions, thanks to the advances in fire rated glass and framing technology.
Sponsored | | Nov 19, 2014
Fire resistive, blast-resistant glazing: Where security, safety, and transparency converge
Security, safety and transparency don’t have to be mutually exclusive thanks to new glazing technology designed to support blast and fire-resistant secure buildings. SPONSORED CONTENT
Sponsored | | Oct 19, 2014
Innovation inspires and delivers new fire rated glass and framing products
Innovation is the engine of business success. Whether it’s the development of a brand-new product, a more efficient process or a novel way of serving customers, innovation helps distinguish a company from its competitors. SPONSORED CONTENT
Sponsored | | Oct 16, 2014
Mill Brook Elementary School colors outside the lines with creative fire-rated framing solution
Among the building elements contributing to the success of the elementary school’s public learning areas is a fire-rated stairwell that supports the school’s vision for collaboration. HMFH Architects designed the stairwell to be bright and open, reflecting the playful energy of students. SPONSORED CONTENT