top of page
UPENN PROVOST + HisTory DEPARTMENT SWING SPACE
Stanev Potts Architects was tasked with completing a feasibility and planning study for the temporary relocation of the Provost and History departments at the University of Pennsylvania. With a strict move-out deadline set for other renovations to commence, the SPA team extensively planned and coordinated to ensure a seamless transition to each departments temporary spaces.
To achieve this, the SPA team initiated a comprehensive process, meticulously cataloging each individual's workflow, program adjacencies, furnishings, and equipment. This thorough assessment provided our design team with essential insights into departmental functions, enabling us to determine the prerequisites for suitable future spaces. Through a series of site visits and meetings, project goals were established for each user group, laying the groundwork for the subsequent phases.
.jpg)
The team then surveyed and evaluated various campus buildings for their potential use, crafting test-fit alternatives tailored to each department's needs. These alternatives encompassed detailed program and furniture layouts, alongside documentation outlining potential renovations required for each building. This analytical approach was instrumental in devising a robust plan that not only addressed the departments' collective needs but also catered to the specific requirements of individuals, ensuring a conducive environment for their continued productivity. Furthermore, recognizing the importance of fostering connections between departments and the broader university community, strategic building assignments were selected to ensure student-facing program remained accessible and central on campus.
The assessment determined that the provost department would move to the lower level of College Hall and the second floor of 3539 Locust, while the History department would transition to spaces in St. Leonard's Court, 3401 Walnut Street, and Houston Hall.
This feasibility and planning study laid the foundation for successful renovation efforts. St. Leonards Court and College Hall would both require significant interior renovations to accommodate the new programs effectively. A variation of test fit 3.3+G17 was further developed and later constructed because of its ability to accommodate a future student-facing program, ensuring long-term versatility in use.
This scope increase was completed within the original timeline serving the current departments needs while better preparing for the future. Preparations for the next student-facing phase of this project is currently underway, reflecting the success of a forward-focused approach to maximizing the benefits of the renovated space to serve the evolving needs of the university community.
For those interested in delving deeper into the College Hall project, detailed information can be found on the design page linked below.
bottom of page