New Penn law school allows subterranean sunlight

The new law school building at the University of Pennsylvania, Golkin Hall, needed more space in a tight infill location. So the architects at Kennedy & Violich (Boston) put much of it underground – preserving a courtyard while managing to allow the sunshine in below.

Illustration of how light was optimally employed both inside and outside of the structure.

This article touches on the subtle means by which smart, green design solves the problems that tight sites often present. Going subterranean makes sense, but woe unto the occupants if adequate natural light doesn't reach them. Here it does, with the implied metaphor of transparency in jurisprudence. Just as notable is how the building achieved energy conservation that consumes 32 percent less than code requirements, plus reduced storm water runoff by way of rooftop vegetation and pervious pavement.

The degree of creativity employed by architects can be found in other businesses as well, which is much of what I get to write about. I enjoy being a business writer because it very often is about innovation and problem solving. Contact me to discuss the communications needs of your enterprise.