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
Libraries | Jan 13, 2023
One of the world’s largest new libraries opens in Shanghai
Designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, Shanghai Library East covers more than 1.2 million sf, 80% of it dedicated to community activity.
Religious Facilities | Jan 9, 2023
Santiago Calatrava-designed St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church opens in New York
In December, New York saw the reopening of the new St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine—the only religious structure destroyed on 9/11. Renowned architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava designed St. Nicholas Church to address the traditional Greek Orthodox liturgy while honoring the Church’s connection with the World Trade Center Memorial site.
Government Buildings | Jan 9, 2023
Blackstone, Starwood among real estate giants urging President Biden to repurpose unused federal office space for housing
The Real Estate Roundtable, a group including major real estate firms such as Brookfield Properties, Blackstone, Empire State Realty Trust, Starwood Capital, as well as multiple major banks and CRE professional organizations, recently sent a letter to President Joe Biden on the implications of remote work within the federal government.
Sustainability | Jan 9, 2023
Innovative solutions emerge to address New York’s new greenhouse gas law
New York City’s Local Law 97, an ambitious climate plan that includes fines for owners of large buildings that don’t significantly reduce carbon emissions, has spawned innovations to address the law’s provisions.
Fire and Life Safety | Jan 9, 2023
Why lithium-ion batteries pose fire safety concerns for buildings
Lithium-ion batteries have become the dominant technology in phones, laptops, scooters, electric bikes, electric vehicles, and large-scale battery energy storage facilities. Here’s what you need to know about the fire safety concerns they pose for building owners and occupants.
Market Data | Jan 6, 2023
Nonresidential construction spending rises in November 2022
Spending on nonresidential construction work in the U.S. was up 0.9% in November versus the previous month, and 11.8% versus the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Industry Research | Dec 28, 2022
Following a strong year, design and construction firms view 2023 cautiously
The economy and inflation are the biggest concerns for U.S. architecture, construction, and engineering firms in 2023, according to a recent survey of AEC professionals by the editors of Building Design+Construction.
Performing Arts Centers | Dec 23, 2022
Diller Scofidio + Renfro's renovation of Dallas theater to be ‘faithful reinterpretation’ of Frank Lloyd Wright design
Diller Scofidio + Renfro recently presented plans to restore the Kalita Humphreys Theater at the Dallas Theater Center (DTC) in Dallas. Originally designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this theater is the only freestanding theater in Wright’s body of work.
University Buildings | Dec 22, 2022
Loyola Marymount University completes a new home for its acclaimed School of Film and Television
California’s Loyola Marymount University (LMU) has completed two new buildings for arts and media education at its Westchester campus. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the Howard B. Fitzpatrick Pavilion is the new home of the undergraduate School of Film and Television, which is consistently ranked among the nation’s top 10 film schools. Also designed by SOM, the open-air Drollinger Family Stage is an outdoor lecture and performance space.
Adaptive Reuse | Dec 21, 2022
University of Pittsburgh reinvents century-old Model-T building as a life sciences research facility
After opening earlier this year, The Assembly recently achieved LEED Gold certification, aligning with the school’s and community’s larger sustainability efforts.