The Law Review and Law Journal, published by the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, are two eminently respected student-led publications. However, the spaces dedicated to their activities within the law school’s facilities were not up to the task of supporting their collaborative work.

Identified as part of a comprehensive facilities plan by VMA, the renovation of the two suites would be designed in a manner to provide each publication its own identity, increasing the visual importance of the space to match the work being done within. The goal was to find balance between the school’s deep history and forward-looking mission.

The entrance to the Review offices was moved to a more prominently accessible location, with a new entry foyer that boasts a reclaimed mantle from previous work in the building, cherry bookshelves, and oriental carpet in a deliberate nod to the typical “old school” law offices. The actual work area features bold red chairs paired with a warm but neutral finish palette and a layout that maximizes natural light by orienting private offices and breakout spaces around a large, central, open work room. Translucent glass and cherry wall systems speak to more modern ways of thinking and working.

The Journal offices apply similar design principles. Vibrant green paint brings freshness to the group collaboration area, contrasted with traditionally-detailed wood-paneled lockers for students’ belongings. The individual work area, although more demure, features a seating area furnished in the same green shade, paired with contemporary furnishings outlined in charcoal.