Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies

This facility for the Spertus Institute includes a library, exhibition galleries, a 400-seat auditorium, classrooms and administrative offices. Atelier Ten provided several detailed design stage daylight studies to advise the architects on improving daylight distribution and to assess whether the light conditions of the early design met the requirements of art preservation.

This was particularly critical in refining the design of the building’s signature facade. Atelier Ten evaluated daylight distribution from the all-glass eastern façade, a roof clerestory and light shaft, and a series of atria which connected floors in the interior. Atelier Ten modeled the classrooms first to assess general light levels and possible glare conditions. The light shaft was analyzed next, to see whether it effectively distributes daylight down from the roof. The atria were then examined, followed by the museum spaces.