The rapidly expanding College of Business and Economics at Lehigh University needed a new home for the Rauch Business School. The 65,000 square foot new construction building is three-stories, steel-framed and includes a basement with significant retaining walls based on the site layout and grading around the building. As part of the new building’s program, design features include specialized learning environments, faculty offices, and a large two-story feature atrium with a monumental stair.
A feature structural highlight includes the suspended monumental stair, comprised of hollow structural steel members and architecturally exposed structural steel. To create this floating staircase, steel hanger rods drop down through the atrium from the roof structure, suspending the stair within the atrium space. Special attention to the stair detailing was necessary to create a pathway for hidden electrical wiring, ensure clean connections at the hanger rods and a seamless tie-in with the adjoining second floor atrium opening and handrail system.
Due to the Karst geology prominent in this Lehigh Valley area which can be prone to sinkholes, a ground improvement plan was implemented to improve the allowable soil bearing capacity and mitigate any long-term settlement concerns. This program was undertaken in accordance with geotechnical recommendations and consisted of a system of rammed aggregate piers to support more conventional spread concrete foundations.
The rapidly expanding College of Business and Economics at Lehigh University needed a new home for the Rauch Business School. The 65,000 square foot new construction building is three-stories, steel-framed and includes a basement with significant retaining walls based on the site layout and grading around the building. As part of the new building’s program, design features include specialized learning environments, faculty offices, and a large two-story feature atrium with a monumental stair.
A feature structural highlight includes the suspended monumental stair, comprised of hollow structural steel members and architecturally exposed structural steel. To create this floating staircase, steel hanger rods drop down through the atrium from the roof structure, suspending the stair within the atrium space. Special attention to the stair detailing was necessary to create a pathway for hidden electrical wiring, ensure clean connections at the hanger rods and a seamless tie-in with the adjoining second floor atrium opening and handrail system.
Due to the Karst geology prominent in this Lehigh Valley area which can be prone to sinkholes, a ground improvement plan was implemented to improve the allowable soil bearing capacity and mitigate any long-term settlement concerns. This program was undertaken in accordance with geotechnical recommendations and consisted of a system of rammed aggregate piers to support more conventional spread concrete foundations.
CLIENT: Voith & Mactavish Architects
LOCATION: Bethlehem, PA
TYPE: Academic, SERVICES: New Construction, MATERIALS: Steel, SUSTAINABILITY: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Final Photos © Jeffrey Totaro Photography
