Updated Design Standards as of December 2019

Yale University Design Standards, used by architects and engineers to build and remodel structures, are regularly reviewed and revised.  In December, the latest round of updates was posted on the Yale Facilities website, and are available to both consultants and staff. These revisions include new standards for bluestone pavement, wall blocking, restroom accessories, and site furniture.

For stone pavement, the Design Standards Committee looked at recent successful installations. The new wood blocking standard was developed through a value engineering recommendation for the 320 York Street project now in construction.

It was brought to the committee’s attention that often baby changing stations in restrooms are installed in buildings that hold public events. In this instance, the new standards provide our consultants more specific guidance.

In addition, there is now a standard for the traditional “Yale Bench,” seen throughout the Central and Medical School campus grounds and for West Campus site furnishings. Both of these updates are based on the recent landscape project completed at West Campus.

The Design Standards Committee meets monthly and suggestions for improvements are welcomed. Next, the committee plans to review various finishes currently used at the School of Medicine, lighting control systems, and landscape standards.

Look for these updates and more in 2020.