PROJECT HISTORY
RESTORATION AND RENOVATION
FURNESS LIBRARY
UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

Year Completed 1991

Architects: Venturi Scott Brown and Associates

The Furness Building, designed by Frank Furness for the University of Pennsylvania, was the university's first Library. The building, in the Romanesque revival style, is one of Frank Furness' finest designs.

Ostergaard Acoustical Associates assisted Venturi Scott Brown and Associates with acoustical analysis and recommendations for this centennial renovation. Methods were found to provide finishes that enhanced the acoustics of the historic spaces while visually keeping with the renovation. Criteria were established for new and renovated HVAC noise levels. Since new HVAC systems were hidden in oddly shaped garret rooms, HVAC noise analysis and control presented unique challenges.