he new Law Court building at the Hatfield campus of Hertfordshire University was designed by RMJM Architects. IQ designed and installed a bespoke glazing package of frameless effect shaped rooflights for the University to allow for optimum light input into the educational space.  

Each triangular roof light was built onto a sloped upstand within the flat roof bringing light into the large stairway and lobby at many different angles. Metal ventilation panels were also built into the angled up stands for minimal and discrete ventilation through the space without the need to add framed ventilation elements into the glass structure itself. 

The angled triangular rooflights improve the level of natural light in the new lobby and walkways, the rooflights were installed on shaped upstands that were designed so that they were not visible from the outside of the building ad from within appear to be completely frameless, with only the occasional glass beam visible. 

Externally, the top layer of glass in the insulated glass units was stepped over the shaped upstands for a flat, flush exterior design to the frameless roof lights. The angles of the shaped triangular rooflights within the roof create dramatic natural lighting throughout the new law building lobby and walkways. 

The rooflights were constructed from multiple structural glass panes that are silicone joined together and the larger systems are supported by frameless structural glass beams. By keeping framing to a minimum, the obstruction to the path of light was significantly reduced, ideal for this educational building design as natural light is known to promote productivity within educational spaces.  

Each of the rooflights were specified to have solar control glass, this is imperative in educational spaces to reduce the risk of the internal space overheating and creating an uncomfortable environment for the users. 

Solar control glass reflects the heat from the sun back outside and simultaneously bounces the internal heat back inside. This both prevents heat loss and reduces solar gain. Therefore, the skin of a building is working by creating a thermally insulated barrier to help maintain a comfortable, internal learning environment. 

The team at IQ can assist in the specification of the glazing solutions for educational buildings. Using our years of knowledge, we can provide effective solutions for each project’s specific needs and challenges.