This space planning and renovation project for the Law School at the University of Pennsylvania involved finding ways to improve the function, efficiency and aesthetics of the school. A particular focus was the reconfiguration of the Law School’s four largest and most frequently used 110–seat lecture halls. Each lecture room is supported with flexible, sophisticated AV systems to accommodate a myriad of teaching and learning styles.

The original tiered classrooms had been configured so that students faced a small teaching board located in one corner of each room. There were no windows in the lower two classrooms and very small windows in the upper two rooms. A primary aim of this project was to allow for additional natural light to enter the classrooms via new windows, while minimizing the intrusion of noise from Chestnut Street, so that the teaching spaces would not be acoustically compromised.

The new design changed the seating configuration in each classroom. The horseshoe style tiered-seating improves sightlines and acoustical conditions for teacher and student interactions. Appropriate wall treatments and the acoustical ceiling improved acoustics and minimized acoustical anomalies. The custom-made glazing system, comprised of three panes of glass and a substantial air space, considerably block outside noise. Jo-Ann Verrier, Vice Dean of Administrative Services, said, “…good work was celebrated as we sat in our classrooms, watching cranes working across the street without hearing a sound. We are very impressed!”