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
High-rise Construction | Aug 11, 2015
Calatrava's Turning Torso wins CTBUH's 10 Year Award
The 623-foot, 57-story tower was the world's first twisting skyscraper. Completed in 2005, the building, designed by Santiago Calatrava, rotates 90 degrees along its height.
Architects | Aug 11, 2015
Architecture firm compensation trending upwards
Latest AIA compensation survey finds average compensation for staff positions up 3.5 percent from early 2013
Architects | Aug 11, 2015
12 architecture schools join NCARB's 'speedy path to licensure' program
For architecture students, a license to practice may soon be available as early as graduation day
Architects | Aug 10, 2015
HDR expands its Canadian presence through merger with CEI Architecture
Public-private partnerships are expected to be one of the combined entity’s strengths.
Retail Centers | Aug 10, 2015
Walgreens’ flagship in Hawaii harkens back to the island’s fishing culture
A house where canoes were made served as the model for this drug superstore’s design.
Giants 400 | Aug 7, 2015
GOVERNMENT SECTOR GIANTS: Public sector spending even more cautiously on buildings
AEC firms that do government work say their public-sector clients have been going smaller to save money on construction projects, according to BD+C's 2015 Giants 300 report.
Giants 400 | Aug 7, 2015
K-12 SCHOOL SECTOR GIANTS: To succeed, school design must replicate real-world environments
Whether new or reconstructed, schools must meet new demands that emanate from the real world and rapidly adapt to different instructional and learning modes, according to BD+C's 2015 Giants 300 report.
Giants 400 | Aug 7, 2015
MULTIFAMILY AEC GIANTS: Slowdown prompts developers to ask: Will the luxury rentals boom hold?
For the last three years, rental apartments have occupied the hot corner in residential construction, as younger people gravitated toward renting to be closer to urban centers and jobs. But at around 360,000 annual starts, multifamily might be peaking, according to BD+C's 2015 Giants 300 report.
Giants 400 | Aug 7, 2015
UNIVERSITY SECTOR GIANTS: Collaboration, creativity, technology—hallmarks of today’s campus facilities
At a time when competition for the cream of the student/faculty crop is intensifying, colleges and universities must recognize that students and parents are coming to expect an education environment that foments collaboration, according to BD+C's 2015 Giants 300 report.
Giants 400 | Aug 7, 2015
RECONSTRUCTION AEC GIANTS: Restorations breathe new life into valuable older buildings
AEC Giants discuss opportunities and complications associated with renovation, restoration, and adaptive reuse construction work.