Architectural Design Report: Law School

Architecture and urban planning

Architectural design III
AR1R1N1/12

BY: NAHOM TESFAYE

UU78272R .

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 Acknowledgement

"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my instructors, Mr. garedew

Mengesha and Mrs. redeat abate, for their unwavering support and guidance
throughout this research project. Their expertise and insights were invaluable in
shaping my design character and concept. And their feedback on my drafts helped
me to refine my designs and analysis.

I would also like to thank the participants in this study for their willingness
to share their experiences and insights with me. Without their contributions, this
research would not have been possible.

I am grateful to my colleagues in the department for their encouragement

and support, and to my family for their unwavering love and support throughout
my academic journey.

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Contents
1. Introduction.................................................................................................................................3
2. Project Information.....................................................................................................................4
3. Literature Review.........................................................................................................................5
4. Case Studies.....................................................................................................................................7
4. Site Analysis.................................................................................................................................9
5. Design Program.........................................................................................................................10
6. Design Concept..........................................................................................................................12
7. Site Planning..............................................................................................................................13
8. Functional Space Organization......................................................................................................14
9. Circulation......................................................................................................................................15
10. Services........................................................................................................................................16
11. Structure......................................................................................................................................17
12. Materials......................................................................................................................................21
13. Construction Details....................................................................................................................22
14. Aesthetics....................................................................................................................................23
15. Design Proposal...........................................................................................................................24
16. Conclusion...................................................................................................................................25
17. References...................................................................................................................................26

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 1. Introduction 

This architectural design report presents a comprehensive study for the development of a

new law school building. The purpose of this report is to provide a detailed overview of the design
process, including project information, literature review, case studies, site analysis, design
program, design concept, site planning, functional space organization, circulation, services, structure,
materials, construction details, aesthetics, and the final design proposal.

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 2. Project Information 

Project Name: Law School of Excellence

Location: [Ayat, Tafo]

Client: [future law school students]

Designer : [Nahom Tesfaye]

Area: [3.5Ha]

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 3. Literature Review 

A comprehensive literature review was conducted to understand the various aspects of law school
design, focusing on the following areas:

 History of law school architecture

The history of law school architecture can be traced back to the early 19th century, when the
first law schools began to emerge in the United States. Initially, these schools were housed in existing
buildings, such as university or government buildings, and did not have dedicated facilities of their own.

However, as law schools grew in popularity and began to establish themselves as distinct institutions, the
need for purpose-built facilities became more apparent. The first purpose-built law school in the United
States was the University of Cincinnati Law School, which was opened in 1833 and designed by
architect Isaiah Rogers.

In the decades that followed, other law schools began to follow suit, with many adopting a neo-Gothic
architectural style that was popular at the time. This style was characterized by pointed
arches, decorative tracery, and intricate stonework, and was intended to convey a sense of tradition,
authority, and permanence.

One of the most famous examples of this style is the Langdell Hall at Harvard Law School, which was
completed in 1906 and designed by Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge. This building features a grand central
staircase, a vaulted ceiling, and a variety of ornamental details, including carvings, statuary, and stained
glass windows.

In the mid-20th century, as modernist design principles began to gain popularity, many law schools
began to adopt a more minimalist aesthetic. This style was characterized by clean lines, simple forms,
and an emphasis on functionality and efficiency.

One example of this style is the law school building at the University of California, Los Angeles, which
was completed in 1951 and designed by architect William Pereira. This building features a simple
rectangular form, a flat roof, and a façade composed of glass and concrete.

In the decades that followed, law school architecture continued to evolve, with many buildings
incorporating elements of both traditional and modernist design. Today, law schools around the world
continue to invest in state-of-the-art facilities that reflect the values and priorities of their institutions,
and that provide students with a comfortable, inspiring, and technologically advanced learning
environment.

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  Design principles for educational spaces

Flexibility: Educational spaces should be designed to accommodate a variety of activities

and learning styles, and be easily adaptable to changing needs.

Accessibility: Spaces should be designed to be inclusive and accessible to students with a variety of
physical abilities.

Natural light and ventilation: Spaces should be designed to maximize the use of natural light and
ventilation, which have been shown to improve student well-being and academic performance.

Acoustics: Spaces should be designed to minimize noise and echo, which can be distracting and hinder
learning.

Ergonomics: Furniture and fixtures should be designed to be comfortable and ergonomically sound, to

support good posture and reduce physical strain.

Technology: Spaces should be designed to accommodate the use of technology, including wireless
internet access, audiovisual equipment, and interactive displays.

Sustainability: Educational spaces should be designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating features

such as energy-efficient lighting and heating, water-saving fixtures, and green roofs.

Safety and security: Spaces should be designed with safety and security in mind, including features such
as secure entry systems, emergency lighting, and fire protection systems

 Sustainable design principles
 Accessibility and inclusivity in design
 Technology integration in educational spaces

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4. Case Studies 

A series of case studies were conducted to analyze and understand the design strategies, spatial
organization, and architectural features of successful law school buildings. The following institutions
were studied:

Case Study 1

Harvard Law School, Wasserstein Hall, Caspersen Student Center, Clinical Wing

Harvard Law School's Wasserstein Hall, Caspersen Student Center, and Clinical Wing, designed by Robert
A.M. Stern Architects, was completed in 2012. The building's design incorporates a variety of sustainable
features, including a green roof, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient lighting and heating systems.

The building's interior spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable, with movable walls and
partitions that allow for different configurations and uses. The building also includes a variety
of collaborative spaces, including a moot court room, a café, and a student lounge, that are intended to
promote interaction and community among students and faculty.

The building's exterior features a façade of natural stone and glass, with a grand entranceway that leads
into a central atrium. The atrium is flooded with natural light and serves as a hub for the building's
various spaces.

Case Study 2

Stanford Law School, William H. Neukom Building

The William H. Neukom Building at Stanford Law School, designed by Polshek Partnership Architects
(now Ennead Architects), was completed in 2011. The building's design incorporates a variety of
sustainable features, including a green roof, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient lighting and
heating systems.

The building's interior spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable, with movable walls and
partitions that allow for different configurations and uses. The building also includes a variety of
collaborative spaces, including a moot court room, a café, and a student lounge, that are intended to
promote interaction and community among students and faculty.

The building's exterior features a façade of natural stone and glass, with a grand entranceway that leads
into a central atrium. The atrium is flooded with natural light and serves as a hub for the building's
various spaces.

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Case Study 3

University of Chicago Law School, Rubenstein Forum

The Rubenstein Forum at the University of Chicago Law School, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, was
completed in 2021. The building's design incorporates a variety of sustainable features, including a green
roof, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient lighting and heating systems.

The building's interior spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable, with movable walls and
partitions that allow for different configurations and uses. The building also includes a variety of
collaborative spaces, including a moot court room, a café, and a student lounge, that are intended to
promote interaction and community among students and faculty.

The building's exterior features a façade of glass and steel, with a grand entranceway that leads into a
central atrium. The atrium is flooded with natural light and serves as a hub for the building's various
spaces. The building also includes a variety of outdoor spaces, including a rooftop terrace and a
courtyard, that are intended to provide students and faculty with spaces for relaxation and reflection.

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 4. Site Analysis 

The site analysis included an examination of the surrounding context, site constraints, and opportunities.
Factors considered include:

Topography

Climate and microclimate

Vegetation and wildlife

Access and connectivity

Infrastructure and utilities

Land use and zoning

Cultural and historical context

[Include a detailed description and analysis of the site, including diagrams and maps]

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 5. Design Program 

The design program was developed based on the needs of the law school, including academic,
administrative, and support spaces. The program includes:

 Classrooms and seminar rooms

 Moot court
 Library and study areas
 Faculty and administrative offices
 Student services and support spaces

Administrative No of users Area No of room

1
Principal office 1 25 m2 1
V.P office 1 18 m2 1
Human resource 1 12 m2 1
management
Register office 10-15 50 m2 1
Finance office 10-15 20-40 m2 1
Student service 3-5 10 m2 1
Waiting/Reception 10-15 25-35 m2 1
Copy room 2-4 10- 15 m2 1
Security room 8 5-20 m2 2
Restroom - - -
Meeting and - 25-35 m2 3
conference room
Archive room 3-5 20-30 m2 4
Admin parking - - 13
Department Head 4-6 20 m2 2
Department Advisor 4-6 15 m2 1
Student union room 3-5 20 m2 3
Store - 20 m2 2
Academic No of users Area No of room
Classroom 30 80 m2 2 per Faculty
Staff office 15 65-75 m2 4-6
Lecture hall 30-60 190-270 m2 3
MOOT COURT 2 124 m2 4

Library - - -
Study Hall 1000 700 m2 -
Archive 2 18 m2 1
Toilet - -
Storage 2 18 m2 2
 Amenities and recreational spaces

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Recreational area No of users Area No of room
Football 10 875 m2 1-2
Basketball 5-10 364 m2 1-2
Cafeteria
Kitchen 23 23 m2 4
payment 4 m2 4 m2 1-2
Toilet - - -

Service No of users Area No of room

Dormitory 360 4.7m2 per stu 40
Staff Dormitory 0 0 0
Parking 0 0 0
Maintenance 5 25m2 3

Faculty Department Duration No of student

LAW Constitutional Law 4 Years
Criminal Law 4 Years 420 Student per year
Corporate Law 4 Years
Family Law 4 Years
Social Study’s Sociology 4 Years
Anthropology 4 Years 420 student per year
Psychology 4 Years
Inter Related Criminal & Justice 4 Years
Human Rights 4 Years 260 student per year
Public Policy 4 Years

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 6. Design Concept 

The design concept for the law school is based on the integration of the following principles:

 Flexibility and adaptability

 Collaboration and interaction
 Sustainability and resource efficiency
 Accessibility and inclusivity
 Integration with the surrounding context

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 7. Site Planning 

The site planning process involved the organization of the various program elements on the site,
considering factors such as:

 Site constraints and opportunities

o The site selected has its own constraints the site surrounding has already variety of
culture.
o The surrounding dwellers are different in lots of categories giving the site its own
character
o The native dwellers giving the sentimental value of country side and the condominium
owners coming from different locations giving it the city vibe and the luxury’s villa and
different housings
 Access and connectivity
o One of the biggest advantages of the site is the access
o It comes with three adjacent roads
o The PAS road leading from [megenaga, kara to tafo]
o The SAS road leading from [kara to ayat condominium]
o The local road leading from [ayat helth center to kara and tafo]

 Pedestrian and vehicular circulation

o In the site the access of vehicle is allowed for on and off loading of different merch’s and
users or for emergency use only
o The site is open and grid system aligned for pedestrian use
o On off site its very accessible for both vehicular and pedestrian

 Landscape and open spaces

o The site have a variety of landscape features including different courts and out door
eating space
 Views and visual connections
o The site and the buildings are purposefully placed so that they create a direct
connection to and from the different community

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 8. Functional Space Organization 

The functional space organization is based on the relationships between the various program
elements and their respective requirements for proximity, accessibility, and privacy. Spaces are organized
into the following zones:

 Academic zone
 Administrative zone
 Support and service zone
 Amenity and recreational zone

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9. Circulation 

The circulation strategy for the law school is designed to promote ease of movement, accessibility, and
wayfinding for all users. Key aspects of the circulation system include:

 Primary and secondary circulation routes

 Vertical circulation elements (stairs, elevators, ramps)
 Barrier-free access and universal design principles
 Integration of indoor and outdoor circulation
 Wayfinding and signage

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10. Services 

The services strategy for the law school focuses on the efficient and sustainable provision of utilities and
building systems, including:

 Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems

 Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
 Lighting and daylighting
 Fire safety and emergency systems

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11. Structure
 

The structural system for the law school is designed to provide stability, durability, and flexibility
while integrating with the architectural and spatial requirements of the building. Key aspects of
the structural system include:

 Floor and roof systems

o Roof systems

One of the main advantages of a flat roof structural system is its simplicity and ease of
construction. The low slope of the roof allows for a relatively simple and lightweight structural system,
which can help to reduce construction time and cost. Additionally, the flat roof design provides flexibility
in terms of layout and design, allowing for more usable interior space and the ability to create rooftop
gardens or outdoor living areas.

However, flat roofs also have some disadvantages to consider. One of the main concerns is the
potential for water damage and leaks, particularly if the waterproof membrane is not properly installed
or maintained. The flat design of the roof also makes it more susceptible to damage from heavy snow
loads or debris, which can cause the roof to collapse or become damaged.

To address these concerns, a number of techniques have been developed to improve the
structural integrity and water resistance of flat roofs. These include the use of reinforced concrete or
steel framing, the addition of insulation and drainage systems, and the use of high-quality waterproofing
membranes and coatings.

Overall, a flat roof structural system can be an effective and efficient option for a variety of
building projects, particularly those that require a large, open interior space or an outdoor rooftop area.
However, it is important to carefully consider the specific requirements of the project and to work with a
qualified structural engineer and roofing contractor to ensure that the design and construction of the flat
roof system is appropriate for the intended use and is able to meet the necessary safety and
performance standards.

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  Floor system

The flat slab floor system is typically composed of a reinforced concrete slab that is supported by
columns or walls. The slab is designed with a uniform thickness and is reinforced with steel bars or mesh
that is placed within the concrete during the pouring process. The reinforcement is typically placed in
two layers, with the bottom layer consisting of bars or mesh that are oriented in one direction, and the
top layer consisting of bars or mesh that are oriented perpendicular to the bottom layer. This helps to
distribute the load evenly across the slab and increase its strength and durability.

One of the key advantages of a flat slab floor system is its flexibility in terms of layout and
design. The absence of beams means that the floor area can be easily divided into different spaces
without the need for additional structural components. This makes it an ideal choice for buildings with
large, open floor areas such as warehouses and shopping centers.

Another advantage of a flat slab floor system is its ease of construction. The simple formwork
system used in the construction process can help to reduce construction time and cost, making it an
attractive option for builders and developers.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider when using a flat slab floor system. One
of the main concerns is the potential for deflection or sagging of the slab over time, particularly if it is
subject to heavy loads or vibrations. This can result in cracking and other types of damage to the slab,
which can be difficult and expensive to repair.

To address these concerns, a number of techniques have been developed to reinforce flat slab
floor systems, including the use of post-tensioning and the addition of shear reinforcement. These
methods can help to increase the load capacity and durability of the slab, while also reducing the risk of
deflection or sagging.

Overall, the flat slab floor system is a popular choice for a variety of building projects,
particularly those that require large, open floor areas. However, it is important to carefully consider the
specific requirements of the project and to work with a qualified structural engineer to ensure that the
design and construction of the flat slab floor system is appropriate for the intended use and is able to
meet the necessary safety and performance standards.

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Lateral load-resisting systems

1. Braced frames: Braced frames are a type of structural system that uses diagonal braces
to resist lateral loads. These braces are typically located on the exterior of the building
and are designed to transfer lateral loads to the foundation. Braced frames are
commonly used in low to mid-rise buildings, and are particularly effective in areas with
high seismic activity.

2. Shear walls: Shear walls are vertical structural elements that are designed to resist
lateral loads by transferring them to the foundation. These walls are typically made of
reinforced concrete or steel, and are located on the exterior or interior of the building.
Shear walls are commonly used in mid to high-rise buildings, and are particularly
effective in areas with high wind loads.

3. Moment frames: Moment frames are a type of structural system that uses rigid
connections between the beams and columns to resist lateral loads. These frames are
typically made of steel or reinforced concrete, and are used in mid to high-rise buildings.
Moment frames are particularly effective in areas with high seismic activity, as they
provide greater resistance to lateral loads than braced frames or shear walls.

4. Diaphragm systems: Diaphragm systems are a type of structural system that uses a floor
or roof diaphragm to transfer lateral loads to the foundation. These systems are
commonly used in low to mid-rise buildings, and are particularly effective in areas with
high wind loads.

5. Special systems: In addition to the above systems, there are several special systems that
are designed to resist lateral loads in unique or challenging building conditions. These
systems include base isolation systems, which use flexible bearings to isolate the
building from the ground during earthquakes, and multi-story moment frames, which
use rigid connections to resist lateral loads in high-rise buildings.

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Foundations and substructure

 Slab foundation

The slab foundation is typically constructed by first preparing the ground by excavating and
leveling the site. Then, a layer of gravel or crushed stone is spread over the site to provide a stable base
for the foundation. A layer of insulation may also be added to help prevent heat loss through the slab.

Next, a layer of moisture barrier is installed over the gravel or insulation to prevent moisture
from seeping up into the concrete slab. Reinforcing steel bars or mesh are then placed within the slab to
provide additional strength and durability.

Finally, the concrete is poured into place and allowed to cure. Once the concrete has hardened,
the slab foundation provides a solid and stable base for the building, with no need for additional piers or
footings.

One of the main advantages of a slab foundation is its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Because
it does not require a basement or crawl space, the construction cost is often lower than other types of
foundations. Additionally, the lack of a basement or crawl space can result in lower heating and cooling
costs, as there is less area to heat or cool.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider when using a slab foundation. One of
the main concerns is the potential for cracking or settling of the foundation over time, particularly if the
ground beneath the foundation is not properly prepared or if the slab is exposed to significant soil
movement or seismic activity. Additionally, because the slab is in direct contact with the ground, it may
be more susceptible to moisture intrusion or damage from pests.

To address these concerns, a number of techniques have been developed to improve the
durability and stability of slab foundations. These include the use of thicker concrete slabs, the addition
of reinforcing steel or post-tensioning, and the installation of drainage systems or moisture barriers.

Overall, a slab foundation can be an effective and efficient option for a variety of building
projects, particularly those that require a simple and cost-effective foundation system. However, it is
important to carefully consider the specific requirements of the project and to work with a qualified
structural engineer to ensure that the design and construction of the slab foundation is appropriate for
the intended use and is able to meet the necessary safety and performance standards.

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12. Materials 

The material palette for the law school is designed to promote sustainability, durability, and a sense
of identity for the institution. Key materials include:

 Structural materials (concrete, steel, timber)

 Facade materials (glass, metal, brick, stone)
 Interior finishes (walls, floors, ceilings)
 Landscape materials (paving, vegetation, site furnishings)

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13. Construction Details 

The construction details for the law school are designed to ensure buildability, durability, and
performance while integrating with the design concept and material palette. Key details include:

 Wall and floor assemblies

 Roof and ceiling assemblies
 Window and door assemblies
 Facade and cladding systems
 Landscape and site elements

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14. Aesthetics 

The aesthetics of the law school are designed to create a distinctive and memorable architectural
identity for the institution while resonating with the surrounding context and expressing the design
concept. Key aesthetic aspects include:

 Building form and massing

 Facade articulation and composition
 Materiality and color
 Lighting and shadow
 Landscape and site design

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15. Design Proposal 

The final design proposal for the law school is a culmination of the various design aspects and
strategies outlined in this report, including the design concept, site planning, functional space
organization, circulation, services, structure, materials, construction details, and aesthetics. The proposal
includes:

 Site plans
 Floor plans
 Sections and elevations
 Renderings and images
 Detail drawings
 Material boards

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16. Conclusion 

This architectural design report has presented a comprehensive study and design proposal for
the Law School of Excellence. The design process and outcomes demonstrate a commitment to creating
a high-quality educational environment that fosters learning, collaboration, and sustainability while
responding to the unique context and requirements of the project. It is hoped that this project will serve
as a model for future law school design and contribute to the ongoing development of innovative and
resilient educational spaces.

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17. References 

www.archdaily.com

norteck

ching

Harvard law school

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