Solution

Penn Museum

Philadelphia, PA

Service: Building Enclosure Rehabilitation
Keywords: Historic, Museum, National Register of Historic Places, Preservation Technology , Renovation, Thermal and Moisture Drive, Windows

Client

Gluckman Tang Architects

Completion

2019
Penn Museum
Penn Museum
Penn Museum

The Penn Museum, also known as the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, houses a renowned collection of artifacts. The brick masonry structure, which was constructed in multiple campaigns starting in 1895, is one of Philadelphia’s most prominent Arts and Crafts-style buildings and is part of the University of Pennsylvania historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2016, the university embarked on a significant renovation of its galleries and mechanical system to improve the visitor experience and better preserve its collection. SGH consulted on the window and skylight replacement and humidification strategies for the project.

Scope | Solutions

SGH evaluated the replacement windows and masonry walls in the galleries to assess their potential for condensation. We also consulted on the renovated wall assemblies in the humidified collections storage spaces. We performed the following work for this project:

  • Thermal modeling of replacement window and skylight assemblies in the galleries to assess their condensation risk

  • Hygrothermal modeling of the terra cotta tile roof and masonry wall assemblies in the galleries to evaluate their potential for experiencing condensation or other moisture-related issues

  • Consulting on collections placed adjacent to exterior walls to provide adequate airflow and mitigate moisture accumulation

  • Evaluating the condition of the exterior masonry and the terra cotta tile roofs to identify locations for potential air leakage

  • Providing construction-phase services, including reviewing submittals and visiting the site to observe the installed windows and skylights

Project Contact(s)

david artigas

David Artigas

Sean O'Brien

Sean OBrien