Connected to a turn-of-the-century Carnegie library, the copper-clad modern addition forms an iconic landmark marking the future of the urban campus that elegantly combines architectural styles. Spatially, the University Center knits a remote site into the heart of the downtown campus, expanding the College’s image and reach.

The student-centric approach of the new center brings student services to one location along with the recruiting departments of seven surrounding universities. This unusual combination allows for easier interaction as students progress through the community college’s programs and advance through their educational paths.

an array of spaces serves students in a new way
Since many of the walls within the renovated library are load-bearing, the small interior spaces remain unchanged. These rooms create unique learning and social environments that range from quiet study spaces, classrooms and informal areas to collaborative, group-study and social areas. In an effort to encourage collaboration between the universities, this interactive facility serves a diverse demographic of students in a range of settings.

“With the parameters set by the small spaces within the existing structure, we found an opportunity to implement a unique array of spaces that are tailored for the interaction taking place,” explains Toni Loiacano, SHW’s project manager. “Now there is a seamless addition that brings college and university collaboration to an extraordinary level.”