The University of Michigan Law School, founded in 1859, is an institution rich in tradition and history. When the University embarked on its first major addition since the opening of Hutchins Hall in 1933, preserving the Collegiate Gothic-style architecture was of utmost importance.
One of the focal points of this monumental construction project was a new common area serving as a gathering space for students, faculty and staff. The Robert B. Aikens Commons was built on an unused grassy courtyard between Hutchins Hall and the Legal research building. Its glass and steel roof and open design affords unobstructed views of the picturesque stone walls and the beautiful stained glass windows that surround it.
However, the proximity of the newly constructed common area to Hutchins Hall posed a unique challenge to the building team. Because these structures were too close to each other, the building code required a 2-hour fire rated barrier between them.
SAFTI FIRST worked with the architects and the glazing contractor on a solution that satisfied the code requirements and preserved the original appearance of the building, which included historic stained glass windows and aged limestone.
The architects specified SuperLite II-XL 120, a clear, fire resistive glazing product that meets the ASTM E-119 wall standard for up to 2 hours. SAFTI FIRST supplied the SuperLite II-XL 120 product in various sizes and pattern cuts as requested. SAFTI FIRST also worked with Edwards Glass during the installation.
Project: University of Michigan Law School Academic Building and Hutchins Hall Student Commons Addition
Architect: Huntman-Cox and Integrated Design Solutions
Glazier: Edwards Glass
Products: SuperLite II-XL 120 in EZ Framing System by SAFTI FIRST
First, the existing stained glass windows were carefully removed. Then, the SuperLite II-XL 120 units were installed within a tube steel structure using SAFTI FIRST’s EZ Framing System, which was surrounded by decorative limestone. Once the SuperLite II-XL 120 assemblies were in place, the existing stained glass and newly created matching stained glass were installed on both sides. Because the SuperLite II-XL 120 units are clear, students, faculty and staff can still look through these historic stained glass windows without noticing the 2-hour fire protection that it now provides.
The approach taken by SAFTI FIRST and Edwards Glass is definitely in line with the architects’ overall goal.
"We are proud of all the glasswork for this project, from it's design, submittal and installation work,” says Tom Schlaff, Project Director for Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC), University of Michigan. “The effort really reflects the demands that this project had to maintain - the historic character of our most precious building in the University of Michigan, the Law School Quad."
“When a fire rated wall is necessary due to code restrictions, having an open mind and using creative design techniques with a qualified glazing professional is the best way to ensure optimal efficiency in design and performance, “ says Ross Winiemko of Edwards Glass. “Understanding the look that the design professionals are going for, integrated with advanced fire rated assemblies offered by SAFTI FIRST, allowed us to offer aesthetic solutions that work nicely with the vision of the owners and architects.” BD+C
Related Stories
Office Buildings | Jun 8, 2022
Former L.A. Times newsroom/printing plant remade into office campus
Phase 1 of The Press, an adaptive reuse project that is converting an old Los Angeles Times facility into a modern office campus, was recently completed in Costa Mesa, Calif.
Codes and Standards | Jun 7, 2022
FEMA launches National Initiative to Advance Building Codes
The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched a new government-wide effort to boost national resiliency and reduce energy costs.
Plumbing | Jun 7, 2022
Sloan launches ‘Sinks Beyond the Restroom’ innovation
Sloan, the world’s leading manufacturer of commercial plumbing systems, has launched its ‘Sinks Beyond the Restroom’ concept.
Building Team | Jun 7, 2022
Announcing construction inclusion week 2022: October 17-21, 2022
Save the date for Construction Inclusion Week 2022: October 17-21, 2022.
University Buildings | Jun 7, 2022
Newfoundland university STEM building emulates natural elements, local traditions
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) recently opened a new building that will provide interdisciplinary learning and research space for Faculties of Science and Engineering.
Codes and Standards | Jun 2, 2022
Guide helps schools find funding for buildings from federal, state government
New Buildings Institute (NBI) recently released a guide to help schools identify funding programs for facilities improvements available from federal and state government programs.
Airports | Jun 2, 2022
SOM-designed International Arrival Facility at Seattle’s Sea–Tac airport features the world’s largest aerial walkway
The Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)-designed International Arrivals Facility (IAF) at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has opened, replacing a 50-year-old arrival facility.
Women in Design+Construction | Jun 2, 2022
Women in Architecture: How HMC Pioneers Gender Equality
A survey by the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA) shows that while women account for nearly half of graduates from architecture programs, they only make up about 15 percent of licensed architects.
Codes and Standards | Jun 2, 2022
New design guide for hybrid steel-mass timber frames released
The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) has released the first-ever set of U.S. recommendations for hybrid steel frames with mass timber floors, according to a news release.
Mass Timber | Jun 2, 2022
Brooklyn is home to New York City’s first mass timber condo building
In the Brooklyn neighborhood of Park Slope, the newly completed Timber House is New York City’s first mass timber condominium building and its largest mass timber project (by height and square footage).
