University of Chicago — Edward H. Levi Hall Portal

Chicago, IL

Awards

AIA Chicago Chapter Divine Detail Award

Chicago Building Congress Award Projects Under $15 Million

Photography: Tom Rossiter

Designed in Partnership with Gensler

At the University of Chicago campus, the main quadrangles organize the original buildings, comprised of a mix of Victorian Gothic and Collegiate Gothic styles. As the campus has continued to grow, its boundaries have moved, and the campus master plan envisioned westward extension of the east-west quadrangle axis.

To reinforce the master plan's goals and help solve circulation and enclosure issues at the Levi Hall administration building, a portal was opened through the building’s existing entry lobby, connecting the two sides of the campus.

The redesign required a multi-year phased renovation of the entire building to accommodate the relocated first-floor program.

The walkway design was informed by a wind study, which demonstrated that a smooth through-way would cause a wind tunnel. To mitigate this condition, folding glass walls make up the opening's sides to slow the wind as it passes through.