Nothing Comes Closer to Home
Located on one of the busiest corners of Penn's campus, Stouffer Hall is a mixed-use building originally constructed in 1972. Two residence hall floors sit above ground floor retail shops, the Platt Performing Arts House, and administrative office spaces. The project includes a complete renovation of the residential floors, all new mechanical and electrical systems, and restoration of the exterior envelope.
One of the most difficult challenges in designing the renovation was to make the residential floors accessible. Each floor was originally designed as six stepped levels to match the slope of the site. A new elevator, lift, and a series of ramps were inserted to seamlessly connect all of the levels. Mechanical improvements include the addition of dedicated outdoor air units and perimeter valence units for heating and cooling. Six common lounge spaces are expressed on the façade with a high-performing curtain wall system and elevated roof structure.
The design is targeted to receive a LEED ID+C Gold certification with special emphasis on a healthy indoor environment. The exterior walls received additional insulation and new, high-performing windows. The replacement windows improve indoor comfort and reduce energy usage. Sustainability goals are supported by the use of cross laminated timber structural infill to reduce the use of concrete and steel and therefore reduce embodied carbon.
Project Team:
Structural Engineer: Hunt Engineering; MEP/FP Engineer: H. F. Lenz; Lighting Designer: The Lighting Practice; Sustainability Consultant: Re:Vision; Security/IT/Acoustics: Shen Milsom Wilke; Elevator Consultant: VDA; Cost Estimator: Envision; Construction Manager: T.N. Ward; Photographer: Halkin Mason Photography
"Stouffer College House has facilities to bring residents together. Complete with game rooms, common areas, and a fitness center, there is always a place to meet fellow residents and enjoy everything Stouffer has to offer."The University of Pennsylvania, Residential Services