Harvard Fung Library Skylight Back to Projects

Objectives

Our primary objective for the Harvard Fung Library Skylight project was to create a jewel-like skylight that would rise from a courtyard on the Harvard University campus and provide an artistic source of natural lighting to a below-grade portion of the library.

Approach

The design-build professionals at Bellwether applied intensive engineering to develop and qualify triple-laminated glass make-ups that could support the skylight’s structural loads and complex geometry. All structural elements are ship-lapped glass held together with structural silicone. A custom stainless steel base shoe was developed to anchor the skylight glass. Finally, we coordinated with HVAC consultants to manage skylight performance and conditioned airflow within the library itself.

Results

The Harvard Fung Library skylight is a structural glass masterpiece—and a highly functional skylight. From above and below, it resembles a finely cut gem, and its complexity blends into the library’s refined design.