When most universities build research facilities for data science and AI, they create sleek, futuristic spaces that showcase technology. The University of Pennsylvanias School of Engineering and Applied Science (Penn Engineering) took the opposite approach with Amy Gutmann Hall. The six-story building uses mass timber construction to bring natural warmth and a sense of openness to technical programs. Walking through the 116,000-square-foot structure, the exposed wood columns, beams, and ceiling decks contrast with a fresh color palette rarely seen in institutional environments.

Andrew Herdeg, Partner at Lake Flato Architects, leads projects that connect people to the natural environment through warm, contextual architecture. Lake Flato's work spans from private residences to complex university facilities, always designing within an environmental context. David Meaney serves as Solomon R. Pollack Professor of Bioengineering and Vice Provost for Research at Penn where he guides planning and facilities decisions for a campus that values collaboration, sustainability, and financial stewardship. 

This conversation explores why Penn Engineering selected mass timber for a major academic building, how the design team front-loaded procurement to reduce risk, and the outcome of incorporating hospitality-like experiences into research environments. From union negotiations to CLT panel optimization, the discussion reveals both the philosophy and practical realities of building Philadelphia's first large-scale urban mass timber structure.

Episode Outline

(01:56) How Andrew's firm brings residential design principles to institutional projects

(11:14) The eight-year planning process for a data science building in a doubling-data world

(15:43) Eight competing design visions and Lake Flato's winning pitch 

(21:55) Designing for deep focus work while encouraging spontaneous collaboration

(30:09) Running cost analysis: mass timber versus conventional steel and concrete construction

(34:29) Achieving 52-70% embodied carbon reduction through integrated structural systems

(38:31) Shifting procurement left: how early contractor engagement de-risked the project

(48:31) Experiencing exposed timber, natural daylight, and the southern campus vista

Additional Resources

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