University of Pennsylvania
Stuart Weitzman Hall
Philadelphia, PA

The University of Pennsylvania’s Stuart Weitzman School of Design has transformed the historic 1892 Morgan Building into Stuart Weitzman Hall, a 40,000 sf center for art and design education and research. Working in collaboration with lead architect KieranTimberlake, Spacesmith was responsible for the furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E), developing solutions that support creative exploration, flexibility, and the demands of a contemporary design education.

The renovated and expanded building features double-height art and architecture studios, classrooms, galleries, exhibition spaces, a sculpture lab, and faculty offices. Throughout, a restrained, neutral palette provides a backdrop for student work and creative expression.

For the architecture studios, Spacesmith custom-designed modular desks, display tables, and storage units that build upon Penn’s existing furniture standards. Constructed of steel with maple butcher block surfaces, the height-adjustable desks feature removable back panels and monitor mounts, allowing them to transition easily from individual workstations to collaborative tables. The resulting furniture is adaptable, durable, and designed to meet the evolving needs of students and faculty.

Sustainability and material health informed every selection. All specified materials meet or exceed low-embodied-carbon and health standards, avoid chemicals of concern, and are Red List Free. Details such as rubber rather than vinyl table edging reinforce this commitment without sacrificing performance or aesthetics.

Spacesmith also developed three options for each furniture item, allowing Penn to evaluate cost, performance, and long-term value. These value-centric designs prioritize functionality, durability, and minimalist aesthetics. The result is a cohesive, understated environment that supports the work of students and faculty while leaving room for imagination and discovery.