Kroon Hall, Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies

New Haven, Connecticut

Hopkins Architects

Completion Date: Spring 2009

Client: Yale University

Kroon Hall, Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies

Photo courtesy Hopkins Architects

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Program: A 58,200-square-foot academic building with office space for 50 faculty and staff, three classrooms, a library, a learning center, a 175-seat auditorium, and an environment center for social gatherings.

Design concept and solution: This contemporary structure blends the shape of a cathedral nave with that of a Connecticut barn, providing maximum performance in the New England climate. Twelve-inch thick concrete floors, walls, and ceilings offer thermal stability by retaining heat in winter and cooling the building in summer. On the exterior, yellow sandstone cladding provides insulation, while glazing allows natural light to enter the interior. Douglas fir louvers cover the glass on the east and west facades, mitigating heat and glare. Sustainable materials, such as concrete mixed with blast slag and red oak paneling from a Connecticut forest managed by the school, were used when possible. Additional green features include rooftop photovoltaic panels and a rainwater-harvesting system that channels water to a courtyard, which is landscaped with aquatic plants that filter out sediments and contaminants. The grey water is then stored in underground tanks and later reused. Designed to achieve LEED Platinum, Kroon Hall is arguably the most sustainable building on Yale’s campus.

Gross square footage:
66,800 sq. ft.

Architect:
Hopkins Architects
27 Broadley Terrace
London NW1 6LG
T: +44 2077 241 751
F: +44 2077 240 932