Lobbies and Atriums are unique spaces in buildings that have their own set of challenges, considerations and requirements. They’re typically handled differently from standard building floors and are frequently designed to create both a connection between the external environment and the inside of the building and a dramatic impression for tenants and clients. Transparency is key to getting light into these spaces.
Lobbies and Atriums:
Where glass really shines.
Multnomah Courthouse – Josh Partee
Structural Glass Design Considerations
Lobbies and Atriums often serve as transitional areas, but are now being required to achieve the same thermal and optical performance considerations as regularly populated areas while integrating sustainable, green building practices. Insulating glass units with high-performance solar control coatings, glare control, solar shading, bird-friendly glazing, laminated glass for security, and even tintable electrochromic control are being required more frequently to better manage the environment inside these large spaces for comfort and energy performance. In addition to the exterior walls, vestibules are frequently employed to help create a further buffer from the hot or cold temperatures outside. There is a greater call for all glass vestibules to be provided within structural glass wall areas to maintain the clear continuity of these all-glass facades. W&W can aid in creating all glass vestibules integrated into these spaces.
Structural Glass Loading Considerations
Structural glass systems can be designed in many ways, from steel-supported back-up structures to transparent glass fin mullions or filigree cable tension elements. Various types of visible point-supported fittings or concealed support connections are available to transfer wind load and dead load forces from the face glass back to support structure. There are also opportunities for mullionless, free-span jumbo glass insulating laminated glass units, only supported at head and sill with metal channels, that can span from 10-foot up to 60-foot tall.
To achieve these transparent glass expressions, project-specific input is required to optimize the system elements. Input related to wind load, maximum snow drift load (for canopies, roofs and skylights), seismic drift loading, live load deflection of supporting structure, differential deflection of surrounding floors and any special considerations for hurricane-impact, ballistics, blast-loading, etc. is important. These are the considerations our designers take into account on every project to assist with system selection, detailing, specifications, and budgeting.
Insight System with 46’ tall laminated glass fins with stainless steel bonded reveal profile and integrated concealed dead load shelves
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