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LD Uof C Saieh Hall Entry Dusk

The University of Chicago, Saieh Hall for Economics

Chicago, IL

The University of Chicago established a new Academic Precinct on campus, repurposing historic buildings to house its expanding academic programs. A core component of the new precinct, the former Chicago Theological Seminary building was selected for adaptive reuse to house the Department of Economics and the Becker Friedman Institute for Research in Economics. The design team worked diligently to bring about a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing combination of historic preservation and modern reconfigurations.

The site now incorporates the neo-Gothic CTS building, two historic row houses, and a new, connector space designed by Ann Beha Architects. 
 

LD Uof C Saieh Hall Grad Commons Detail

The lighting design intent is to blend new design elements with the older architecture, bringing more visual attention to the historic building while supporting new academic needs. Lighting scope for the new, 150,000 SF Saieh Hall for Economics includes the building facade and main entry, west entry, seminar and conference rooms, and corridors. 

LD Uof C Saieh Hall Entry Interior

Where an alley once divided the building, the main lobby connects new and old. Acrylic fins edgelit by LEDs provide soft ambience. Linear LEDs concealed in perimeter slots graze the previously exterior masonry walls.

LD Uof C Saieh Hall Cloister
LD Uof C Saieh Hall West Entry Staircase

In the historic lobby, a new fluorescent pendant echoes the octagonal form of the ceiling, and reveals the architectural detailing.

LD Uof C Saieh Hall Tiered Classroom 2

In the cloister, wall mount and ingrade uplights accentuate ceiling vaults. LED adjustables mounted high between vaults illuminate tables for casual study while retaining the historic character of the building.

The former Seminary library is now a signature classroom. A pendant incorporates fluorescent uplights, LED downlights, and LED frontlights for presenters. Existing j‑boxes from the previous chandeliers were reused to minimize disruptions to the decorative plaster ceiling.

LD Uof C Saieh Hall Grad Commons Dusk edit1
LD Uof C Saieh Hall Hero Dawn

The former chapel is now a student lounge and event space. Fixtures concealed behind millwork uplight the limestone window surrounds and wood ceiling. LED cylinders are integrated between arched wood beams to provide ambient light, allowing restored chandeliers to glow comfortably. LED rings give a halo of light over the former altar area.

New landscape design helps to connect the new precinct with the original Main Quad.

Project Details

Architect

  • Annum Architects

Recognition

  • IES Illumination Design Award of Merit, 2015

  • AIA Illinois Frank Lloyd Wright Honor Award, 2016

  • Building Design + Construction – Platinum Award for Reconstruction, 2015

  • Society for College and University Planning Merit Award for Excellence in Architecture, 2017

  • Society for College and University Planning Honor Award for Excellence in Planning, 2014

  • Boston Society of Architects Honor Award for Design Excellence, 2014

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