Rosenberg College of Law

University of Kentucky

The modernization and expansion of the University of Kentucky Law Building in Lexington is a true transformation, both in its physical presence and as a social force for education.

KPF’s reinvention of the circa 1965 law building adds 26% more area, including collaboration spaces and state-of-the-art learning facilities. In addition to 11 new classrooms of varying capacities and 20 collaborative spaces, the project modernizes a 185-seat courtroom to be used for trial training, live appellate court proceedings, and lectures. The third floor features a unique design solution to enhance the school’s flexibility and functionality. Three classrooms can easily be converted into one large, multi-use space, potentially accommodating up to 400 people. Above, an accessible rooftop terrace and event space features spectacular views across campus.

The design carefully considers the project’s relationship to the campus context and especially to Memorial Hall, the law school’s esteemed neighbor. Materials include metal, glass, and brick, chosen in deference to the University’s iconic symbol, and the main entrance of the building shifts to directly relate to the historic structure. Echoing the older Corinthian portico, the law school’s canopied exterior creates new social spaces and adds a lively presence to the project.

Location

Lexington, KY, USA

Client

University of Kentucky

Team

Sherman Carter Barnhart (Associate Architect)

Type

Adaptive Reuse, Education

Size

11,400 m2 / 122,900 ft2

Certification

LEED Silver

Awards

Finalist (American Architecture Awards 2021), Honor Award – Building Additions, Renovation or Adaptive Reuse (SCUP/AIA-CAE Excellence in Architecture Awards 2021), Merit Award – Additions/Renovations/Restoration greater than $5M (AIA Kentucky Design Awards 2020)

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Project Type:Education
Project Location:Americas