Fairleigh Dickinson University, with campuses in Florham Park and Madison, New Jersey, offers students a graphic design programme with a particular focus on motion graphics. As part of the university building's renovation, NK Architects created a special space in the new animation lab: multifunctional, but above all open and glass-enclosed.
Thanks to Pilkington Pyrostop® Line fire-resistant glass, installed in a Fireframe ClearView system from Technical Glass Products, all fire safety requirements were met and the architects' vision was realised. There is no visible edge bonding system or vertical framing between the individual panes, and the transitions between adjacent panes are virtually colourless. A notable feature is the extremely subtle 5 mm butt joint, which allows for an unobstructed, all-glass appearance. The glass panes are held in a heat-resistant L-shaped steel frame.
The fire protection system secures the escape route through the corridor for 60 minutes in the event of a fire. In addition to providing reliable protection against fire and smoke, the system also acts as a protective shield against heat radiation transferring to the side of the glazing facing away from the fire. In other words, it provides thermal insulation towards the corridor in the event of a fire.
Photography: © TGP