Standards

Design Guidelines & Policies

These guidelines outline the ways that new and renovated University buildings and spaces should contribute to the campus environment. They should be used by consulting architects, engineers, landscape architects, and other designers to ensure that their projects support the Campus Development Plan. The documents also describe the project process once a project is initiated and the design review process that is used for projects that have a significant affect on the campus.

Design Guidelines and Review of Campus Projects

The University of Pennsylvania maintains a high standard for design and the materials used for each project. Approved by the Trustees in 2002, the following document outlines our campus standards for design and the formal design review process.

Download Design Guidelines (pdf)

Instructions to Design Professionals

This document outlines the contractual obligations between the University and design professionals. This document should be reviewed prior to responding to a Request for Proposal and referred to once a contract is established throughout the life of a project.

Download Instructions to Design Professionals (pdf)

Landscape

The University Landscape Architect within the Office of the University Architect oversees landscape initiatives across campus including routine maintenance of the grounds, installation of landscape improvement projects and the review of major capital improvements.
Visit Landscape page.

Products + Materials

The University requires that all Architects and Contractors fill out the attached form in full at the completion of a project. The completion of the form is part of the closeout documentation for capital projects. This Products and Materials Summary spreadsheet is to be submitted with any required Operation and Maintenance Documentation, as directed by the University Project Manager. These forms can be modified as required for specific projects, but are to list manufacturers, equipment types and model numbers, finishes, and building components to facilitate minor repairs and alterations carried out by the University. The form should be turned in to your Project Manager. Please download form here.

Design Standards

These are the design standards for building components and systems for renovation and new construction projects at the University of Pennsylvania. Architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and landscape standards and corresponding reference material are included in the links below.

We are currently in the process of converting the design standards to a new format.

For new standards and those that have been converted to the new format, please click here:

View converted Design Standards in new format

For Mechanical and Electrical Design Standards that have not yet been converted and for standards in effect prior to June 30, 2009, please use the link below:

M/E/P Standards that have not been converted