The Dickinson School of Law at Pennsylvania State University is the oldest law school in Pennsylvania, founded in 1834. It is known for its rigorous academic program, distinguished faculty and commitment to social justice.
The law school underwent several major improvements, creating new and innovative learning environments for students and faculty, with Kawneer products and expertise playing a key role.
Positively Impacting the Environment
The Dickinson School of Law Lewis Katz Building is located on the edge of Penn State's University Park campus and serves as a gateway to the university. The building is a wonderful piece of architecture that seamlessly blends in with its natural surroundings. The two ends of the slightly curved structure are designed around specific elements of the adjacent landscape: the botanical garden and distant Mount Nittany. The building has truly stood the test of time in terms of its location, design, construction and materials used.
The building was completed with the help of Kawneer products that enhanced the environmental credentials of the project that is now LEED Certified®.
Kawneer’s innovative aluminum systems also helped Ennead Architects achieve its goal of creating a light, bright and welcoming space for students and professors that has a positive impact on the environment and occupants alike.
Innovative Products for Education
Kawneer's 1600 Wall System® 1 Curtain Wall and 7500 Wall® Curtain Wall System helped create the building's apparent floating effect with its overhanging top floor, providing abundant views of the inspiring surroundings. Above the curtain wall, a continuous 2000 Skylight system runs the full length of the building.
Both solutions enhance natural light and reduce reliance on artificial lighting systems, helping to improve the well-being and success of students and staff.
In addition, Kawneer supplied 190 Standard Entrances for the building. These entrances are constructed and tested to withstand the rigors of constant use, providing a modern and slim aesthetic that complements the building's design.
8225TL Thermal Windows, a solution that combines design flexibility and high performance, were also specified for the project.
Resilient Solutions for Inspiring Spaces
One of the biggest challenges in designing the Lewis Katz Building was to facilitate the desired levels of natural daylight without compromising the structural integrity of the building.
Kawneer's 1600 Wall System® 1 Curtain Wall was seismic tested to AAMA 501.4 standard, ensuring the building would meet the necessary structural requirements while allowing natural light to enter the building.
Well-lit spaces with open views have been shown to improve learning and well-being. Natural light can reduce eyestrain, boost mood and increase cognitive function, while spaces that offer views of the outside world can help students feel more connected to their surroundings, promoting calmness and productivity.
A Successful Project Completed with Kawneer
The building's design features a central focal point in the form of a light, bright, curving library that provides students with a variety of study environments. The library is surrounded by classrooms, a 250-seat auditorium and a full-sized courtroom setting. The overall effect is a building that is both inspiring and functional, providing students and faculty members with a state-of-the-art learning environment that fosters collaboration, innovation and creativity.
The Dickinson School of Law Lewis Katz Building is a testament to the power of innovative design and sustainable construction practices. By working with Kawneer, a leading provider of architectural aluminum products and systems, the project team was able to create a building that is not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly and functional.
About Kawneer
Kawneer creates positive environments to shape a better world. Founded in 1906, Kawneer’s pioneering architectural solutions continue to advance modern design, delivering resilient, distinctive buildings that promote sustainability and well-being.
With locations across North America and Europe, Kawneer offers global technical expertise with people dedicated to creating a best-in-class customer experience. Kawneer promotes an inclusive culture that embraces diversity, workplace safety and civic contribution. Defined by quality, durability and performance, Kawneer is building legacies and is constantly evolving to remain relevant from generation to generation.
