STUDENT CENTER DESIGN D E S I G N I N G
V I B R A N T
C E N T E R S
O F
C A M P U S
L I F E
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN D E S I G N I N G
V I B R A N T
C E N T E R S
O F
C A M P U S
L I F E
A new student union can mark and embody a genuine turning point for a campus. It can synthesize the hopes and aspirations for an institution; it can serve as both a needed symbol of an ambitious future and a real sign of progress in defining a dynamic center of campus life. The result can bolster enrollment and student retention in that a single successful building project can stand for an institution’s commitment to student life and “put it on the map”. Most union projects strive to make a place, and a way, for faculty, staff, and students to continue the conversation started in the classroom—and to gather together as a community.
TOP: Washington and Lee University - woods creek entry and dining terrace below BOTTOM: University of Mary Washington - central campus walk bridges a ravine and becomes an arcade at the student center and adjacent library OPPOSITE: Averett University - lounge seating area with view to commons lawn outside
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN D E S I G N I N G
V I B R A N T
C E N T E R S
O F
C A M P U S
L I F E
A new student union can mark and embody a genuine turning point for a campus. It can synthesize the hopes and aspirations for an institution; it can serve as both a needed symbol of an ambitious future and a real sign of progress in defining a dynamic center of campus life. The result can bolster enrollment and student retention in that a single successful building project can stand for an institution’s commitment to student life and “put it on the map”. Most union projects strive to make a place, and a way, for faculty, staff, and students to continue the conversation started in the classroom—and to gather together as a community.
TOP: Washington and Lee University - woods creek entry and dining terrace below BOTTOM: University of Mary Washington - central campus walk bridges a ravine and becomes an arcade at the student center and adjacent library OPPOSITE: Averett University - lounge seating area with view to commons lawn outside
DEVELOPING COMMUNITY S H A P I N G
P L A C E S
F O R
I N T E R A C T I O N
A successful student union creates a vital, active, and useful place for student interaction and development. Best located in very the heart of the campus, the compelling passages and memorable spaces of the union building shape a common and unifying experience even though specific programs included in these buildings are purposefully mixed. The spaces of a student center should range from the intimate scale of an individual corner or a small meeting room to the community scale of a bustling dining hall. Weaving these spaces together requires both logic and art, creating comfortable relationships and an accommodating ease of use. Carefully organized spaces and programs lead naturally to inclusive participation in the larger web of activity within the building making the student center come alive.
TOP: Averett University - commons and central lounge with view to lawn outside BOTTOM: University of Virginia College at Wise - atrium and forum space with campus elevator and stair tower connecting to upper academic campus OPPOSITE: Washington and Lee University - central atrium entry and main connecting stairway with views to woods creek
DEVELOPING COMMUNITY S H A P I N G
P L A C E S
F O R
I N T E R A C T I O N
A successful student union creates a vital, active, and useful place for student interaction and development. Best located in very the heart of the campus, the compelling passages and memorable spaces of the union building shape a common and unifying experience even though specific programs included in these buildings are purposefully mixed. The spaces of a student center should range from the intimate scale of an individual corner or a small meeting room to the community scale of a bustling dining hall. Weaving these spaces together requires both logic and art, creating comfortable relationships and an accommodating ease of use. Carefully organized spaces and programs lead naturally to inclusive participation in the larger web of activity within the building making the student center come alive.
TOP: Averett University - commons and central lounge with view to lawn outside BOTTOM: University of Virginia College at Wise - atrium and forum space with campus elevator and stair tower connecting to upper academic campus OPPOSITE: Washington and Lee University - central atrium entry and main connecting stairway with views to woods creek
DEVELOPING COMMUNITY M A K I N G
A N
I M P A C T
O N
T H E
C A M P U S
A student union can make a significant and welcoming campus place—one that draws students in and encourages them to stay, to gather together, and to share experiences. With an important emphasis placed on the quality of the campus, union projects tend to define a recognizable “heart” or campus center that, in many ways, must embody the culture of the institution. This palpable need to establish an attractive, meaningful and memorable campus setting demands an approach that grows out of the distinctive character of the place, integrates the overall campus landscape, and produces a building that is a magnetic destination and a brilliant beacon.
TOP: Clemson University - proposed view of new union, steps and retail dining marketplace BOTTOM: Averett University - commons lawn and central lounge OPPOSITE: University of Virginia College at Wise - view from upper academic campus
DEVELOPING COMMUNITY M A K I N G
A N
I M P A C T
O N
T H E
C A M P U S
A student union can make a significant and welcoming campus place—one that draws students in and encourages them to stay, to gather together, and to share experiences. With an important emphasis placed on the quality of the campus, union projects tend to define a recognizable “heart” or campus center that, in many ways, must embody the culture of the institution. This palpable need to establish an attractive, meaningful and memorable campus setting demands an approach that grows out of the distinctive character of the place, integrates the overall campus landscape, and produces a building that is a magnetic destination and a brilliant beacon.
TOP: Clemson University - proposed view of new union, steps and retail dining marketplace BOTTOM: Averett University - commons lawn and central lounge OPPOSITE: University of Virginia College at Wise - view from upper academic campus
DEVELOPING COMMUNITY D E S I G N I N G
F O R
C O N N E C T I O N S
By pulling in prominent campus pathways and by opening up to active, programmed outdoor spaces, a union building can reach out to its surroundings, provide a clear center of gravity for campus activities, and carry forward the unique identity and individual character of the institution. A careful approach to providing essential service access ensures that the building sits comfortably in its prominent location—right in the center of things— maintaining a seamless, pedestrian campus landscape while still gaining access to the loading docks and service drives needed to supply the building. A “see and be seen” factor permeates successful unions. Transparent opportunities for interaction can bring the best aspects of an institution to life and to light.
TOP: Washington & Lee University - cafe portico and woods creek amphitheater BOTTOM: Washington & Lee University - boardwalk OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - view of boardwalk, dining terrace and new lawn at student recreation gym beyond
DEVELOPING COMMUNITY D E S I G N I N G
F O R
C O N N E C T I O N S
By pulling in prominent campus pathways and by opening up to active, programmed outdoor spaces, a union building can reach out to its surroundings, provide a clear center of gravity for campus activities, and carry forward the unique identity and individual character of the institution. A careful approach to providing essential service access ensures that the building sits comfortably in its prominent location—right in the center of things— maintaining a seamless, pedestrian campus landscape while still gaining access to the loading docks and service drives needed to supply the building. A “see and be seen” factor permeates successful unions. Transparent opportunities for interaction can bring the best aspects of an institution to life and to light.
TOP: Washington & Lee University - cafe portico and woods creek amphitheater BOTTOM: Washington & Lee University - boardwalk OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - view of boardwalk, dining terrace and new lawn at student recreation gym beyond
MEETING P R OV I D I N G
F O R
F L E X I B I L I T Y
A N D
E A S E
O F
U S E
With multiple groups using a meeting space throughout the day for a variety of purposes, flexibility is critical. Intended for frequent set up and rearrangement, meeting rooms can be equipped with the technology and furnishings to make transitions smooth and easy. Technology that is seamlessly integrated into a room makes media for formal and informal presentations accessible and intuitive. Easy access to food service allows these spaces to host popular luncheon meetings. Artfully managing service issues, in concert with a careful attention to furniture selection and configuration, will minimize staff time devoted to preparing and re-configuring spaces while maximizing their utility.
TOP: Washington & Lee University - minority student alliance meeting room / board room BOTTOM: Washington & Lee University - cultural studies meeting room OPPOSITE: UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - Meeting Room
MEETING P R OV I D I N G
F O R
F L E X I B I L I T Y
A N D
E A S E
O F
U S E
With multiple groups using a meeting space throughout the day for a variety of purposes, flexibility is critical. Intended for frequent set up and rearrangement, meeting rooms can be equipped with the technology and furnishings to make transitions smooth and easy. Technology that is seamlessly integrated into a room makes media for formal and informal presentations accessible and intuitive. Easy access to food service allows these spaces to host popular luncheon meetings. Artfully managing service issues, in concert with a careful attention to furniture selection and configuration, will minimize staff time devoted to preparing and re-configuring spaces while maximizing their utility.
TOP: Washington & Lee University - minority student alliance meeting room / board room BOTTOM: Washington & Lee University - cultural studies meeting room OPPOSITE: UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - Meeting Room
MEETING C R A F T I N G
L I V E LY
P U B L I C
S PAC E
F O R
E V E N T S
Designed for special occasions, celebrations, and receptions of all kinds, the quality and character of event space should reflect their significance. Given their occasional nature, these spaces can also become an important part of the daily life of a student center. Appropriate furnishings and dedicated furniture storage space can support the transition from daily to special event use. Thus, these rooms can be located in prominent building locations, providing a handsome space for students to gather, read, relax, and dine on a daily basis.
TOP : UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - Foundation Hall BOTTOM: Virginia Military Institute - assembly and event room OPPOSITE: Averett University - dining hall and event room
MEETING C R A F T I N G
L I V E LY
P U B L I C
S PAC E
F O R
E V E N T S
Designed for special occasions, celebrations, and receptions of all kinds, the quality and character of event space should reflect their significance. Given their occasional nature, these spaces can also become an important part of the daily life of a student center. Appropriate furnishings and dedicated furniture storage space can support the transition from daily to special event use. Thus, these rooms can be located in prominent building locations, providing a handsome space for students to gather, read, relax, and dine on a daily basis.
TOP : UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - Foundation Hall BOTTOM: Virginia Military Institute - assembly and event room OPPOSITE: Averett University - dining hall and event room
DINING P R OV I D I N G
F R E S H N E S S ,
AC C E S S
A N D
VA R I E T Y
Dining facilities satisfy not only the basic need for food, but the deeper need for nourishment. A multi-venue servery offers students the range of choices that can personalize their dining experience, emphasizing a youthful approach that is appealing, fresh and healthy. Similarly, bringing the finishing of food preparation out of the kitchen and into the open servery gives students a real sense of the freshness of their food, and provides an opportunity for interaction with food service staff, who can become familiar faces and friendly members of the daily dining experience.
TOP LEFT: Washington & Lee University - marketplace serving BOTTOM: Averett University - dining hall serving platform OPPOSITE: Averett University - dining hall serving
TOP RIGHT: Washington & Lee University - marketplace dining
DINING P R OV I D I N G
F R E S H N E S S ,
AC C E S S
A N D
VA R I E T Y
Dining facilities satisfy not only the basic need for food, but the deeper need for nourishment. A multi-venue servery offers students the range of choices that can personalize their dining experience, emphasizing a youthful approach that is appealing, fresh and healthy. Similarly, bringing the finishing of food preparation out of the kitchen and into the open servery gives students a real sense of the freshness of their food, and provides an opportunity for interaction with food service staff, who can become familiar faces and friendly members of the daily dining experience.
TOP LEFT: Washington & Lee University - marketplace serving BOTTOM: Averett University - dining hall serving platform OPPOSITE: Averett University - dining hall serving
TOP RIGHT: Washington & Lee University - marketplace dining
DINING C R E AT I N G
D I N I N G
F O R
A L L
A P P E T I T E S
A N D
V E N U E S
A variety of dining options enlivens the use of the union—from casual, readymade “grab-and-go” to formal, specially prepared meals for events. Options that suit different personalities, eating needs, and payment options make all feel comfortable, welcome, and engaged in the life of the campus. Skillful interior design shapes dining environments that comfortably host a variety of personalities and experiences, allowing different needs at different times to find their place within the building. Color, texture, surface and furnishing all create the varied moods of dining throughout the building—from calm and private for reading and study in a quiet café to the energy and openness of enjoying a meal with a large group of friends in a spacious dining room.
TOP: Washington & Lee University - retail cafe and emporium BOTTOM: University of Virginia - retail cafe and coffee bar OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - cafe portico outdoor terrace dining with balcony above
DINING C R E AT I N G
D I N I N G
F O R
A L L
A P P E T I T E S
A N D
V E N U E S
A variety of dining options enlivens the use of the union—from casual, readymade “grab-and-go” to formal, specially prepared meals for events. Options that suit different personalities, eating needs, and payment options make all feel comfortable, welcome, and engaged in the life of the campus. Skillful interior design shapes dining environments that comfortably host a variety of personalities and experiences, allowing different needs at different times to find their place within the building. Color, texture, surface and furnishing all create the varied moods of dining throughout the building—from calm and private for reading and study in a quiet café to the energy and openness of enjoying a meal with a large group of friends in a spacious dining room.
TOP: Washington & Lee University - retail cafe and emporium BOTTOM: University of Virginia - retail cafe and coffee bar OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - cafe portico outdoor terrace dining with balcony above
DINING WEAVING THE VITALITY OF DINING INTO THE LIFE OF THE BUILDING
Dining options are essential to a successful student center. Quality food draws
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
people into the building. Sharing food sustains the special bond that can form as relationships begin in a collegiate setting. However, the thoughtful design and
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life
arrangement of dining spaces invites them to linger, to engage in conversation, and to become part of the activity. A sense of openness and visibility is key. A range of dining options that are combined and strategically overlapped with other union program can create a buzzing sense of vitality. These programs can transform the environment into a lively campus with round-the-clock student presence, on-campus extracurricular and weekend activities-all building an educational and cultural community.
TOP: Clemson University - proposed retail marketplace common dining space overlaps with games area above BOTTOM: University of Virginia’s Hereford Residential College - dining hall OPPOSITE: Averett University - common room atrium open to exterior and dining hall above
- Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus - Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
DINING WEAVING THE VITALITY OF DINING INTO THE LIFE OF THE BUILDING
Dining options are essential to a successful student center. Quality food draws
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
people into the building. Sharing food sustains the special bond that can form as relationships begin in a collegiate setting. However, the thoughtful design and
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life
arrangement of dining spaces invites them to linger, to engage in conversation, and to become part of the activity. A sense of openness and visibility is key. A range of dining options that are combined and strategically overlapped with other union program can create a buzzing sense of vitality. These programs can transform the environment into a lively campus with round-the-clock student presence, on-campus extracurricular and weekend activities-all building an educational and cultural community.
TOP: Clemson University - proposed retail marketplace common dining space overlaps with games area above BOTTOM: University of Virginia’s Hereford Residential College - dining hall OPPOSITE: Averett University - common room atrium open to exterior and dining hall above
- Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus - Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
G AT H E R I N G C R E AT I N G
A
N AT U R A L
P L AC E
TO
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN S O C I A L I Z E
A sense of community goes a long way towards easing the transition from
C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
home to college. Partnered with the activities of a dynamic student life program, the gathering spaces of a campus center can support students in their social
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life
development through their college years. A rich mix of uses generates the necessary buzz to draw in students in the evenings and weekends.
- Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus
Vibrant program spaces gather students together into common activities and contribute to a sense of community and personal growth. The right types of
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual
spaces and thoughtful organization can establish the union as the unquestionable place to be and to meet up with friends.
- Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
TOP: University of Virginia College at Wise - fitness center and aerobics / dance studio BOTTOM: Averett University - common room with TV area OPPOSITE: Averett University - games mezzanine open to cafe below
G AT H E R I N G C R E AT I N G
A
N AT U R A L
P L AC E
TO
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN S O C I A L I Z E
A sense of community goes a long way towards easing the transition from
C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
home to college. Partnered with the activities of a dynamic student life program, the gathering spaces of a campus center can support students in their social
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life
development through their college years. A rich mix of uses generates the necessary buzz to draw in students in the evenings and weekends.
- Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus
Vibrant program spaces gather students together into common activities and contribute to a sense of community and personal growth. The right types of
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual
spaces and thoughtful organization can establish the union as the unquestionable place to be and to meet up with friends.
- Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
TOP: University of Virginia College at Wise - fitness center and aerobics / dance studio BOTTOM: Averett University - common room with TV area OPPOSITE: Averett University - games mezzanine open to cafe below
G AT H E R I N G F O S T E R I N G S T U D Y, D I S C U S S I O N A N D C O L L A B O R A T I V E L E A R N I N G
Colleges and universities do their best to prepare students for the demands of the
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
modern workplace, where collaborative work, on-the job training, and experiential learning are commonplace. Today’s students are frequently required to engage in
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life
group projects and collaborative work as part of their regular course of study. - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and However, many campuses suffer from a lack of collaborative learning space
traditions of a campus
to support this group work. Spaces within a student center can fill this need, supporting the academic development of its students and fostering a culture
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual
of learning. This allows students to experience learning as an on-going engagement—a long-term conversation—that extends beyond the walls of the
- Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large
classroom and into their daily lives.
square footage of program
TOP: University of Virginia - inviting lounge space BOTTOM: University of Virginia’s College at Wise - collaborative lounge space OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - commons room with atrium entry and bookstore beyond
G AT H E R I N G F O S T E R I N G S T U D Y, D I S C U S S I O N A N D C O L L A B O R A T I V E L E A R N I N G
Colleges and universities do their best to prepare students for the demands of the
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
modern workplace, where collaborative work, on-the job training, and experiential learning are commonplace. Today’s students are frequently required to engage in
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life
group projects and collaborative work as part of their regular course of study. - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and However, many campuses suffer from a lack of collaborative learning space
traditions of a campus
to support this group work. Spaces within a student center can fill this need, supporting the academic development of its students and fostering a culture
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual
of learning. This allows students to experience learning as an on-going engagement—a long-term conversation—that extends beyond the walls of the
- Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large
classroom and into their daily lives.
square footage of program
TOP: University of Virginia - inviting lounge space BOTTOM: University of Virginia’s College at Wise - collaborative lounge space OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - commons room with atrium entry and bookstore beyond
G AT H E R I N G N U R T U R I N G
C U LT U R E
A N D
E X P L O R AT I O N
A sign of vitality on campus is the performance and cultural exploration that it nourishes. Writing, preparing, and putting on a performance can be an impromptu event or a carefully orchestrated production. Creating a variety of venues for performance activities encourages students to explore their ideas, skills, and talents on a variety of levels for a variety of purposes.
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining - Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus
While casual outdoor amphitheaters invite an informal and improvisational quality of performance, spaces equipped with simple yet sophisticated sound and lighting systems encourage students to craft their performances for a larger, more formal audience. With these spaces available and accessible, students are encouraged to explore and share their talents as dancers, speakers, musicians, actors, and performers.
TOP: University of Virginia - multi-purpose assembly and performance space BOTTOM: Washington & Lee University - outdoor amphitheater OPPOSITE: Small, flexible theater and campus auditorium
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
G AT H E R I N G N U R T U R I N G
C U LT U R E
A N D
E X P L O R AT I O N
A sign of vitality on campus is the performance and cultural exploration that it nourishes. Writing, preparing, and putting on a performance can be an impromptu event or a carefully orchestrated production. Creating a variety of venues for performance activities encourages students to explore their ideas, skills, and talents on a variety of levels for a variety of purposes.
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining - Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus
While casual outdoor amphitheaters invite an informal and improvisational quality of performance, spaces equipped with simple yet sophisticated sound and lighting systems encourage students to craft their performances for a larger, more formal audience. With these spaces available and accessible, students are encouraged to explore and share their talents as dancers, speakers, musicians, actors, and performers.
TOP: University of Virginia - multi-purpose assembly and performance space BOTTOM: Washington & Lee University - outdoor amphitheater OPPOSITE: Small, flexible theater and campus auditorium
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
SERVING S U P P O R T I N G
S T U D E N T
L E A D E R S
When major club and student organization space is included in student centers, on any day of the week, you will find your campus leaders in one building interacting with each other. These particular students are often recognized as the heart and soul of student life. Thus, colleges and universities are now devoting more thought to how student centers can support these students’ work.
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining - Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus
Supporting student leaders with dedicated space, technology, and resources improves the quality of broader student activities on campus and provides an effective training ground for the future leaders. Housing them in a common space with shared office resources creates opportunities for meaningful group interaction, effective collaboration, and the chance exposure to a diversity of interests and passions.
TOP: UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - Scholar Office BOTTOM: University of Virginia - niche space for student faculty interaction OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - outing club resource room
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
SERVING S U P P O R T I N G
S T U D E N T
L E A D E R S
When major club and student organization space is included in student centers, on any day of the week, you will find your campus leaders in one building interacting with each other. These particular students are often recognized as the heart and soul of student life. Thus, colleges and universities are now devoting more thought to how student centers can support these students’ work.
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining - Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus
Supporting student leaders with dedicated space, technology, and resources improves the quality of broader student activities on campus and provides an effective training ground for the future leaders. Housing them in a common space with shared office resources creates opportunities for meaningful group interaction, effective collaboration, and the chance exposure to a diversity of interests and passions.
TOP: UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - Scholar Office BOTTOM: University of Virginia - niche space for student faculty interaction OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - outing club resource room
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
SERVING S U P P LY I N G
S T U D E N T S
W I T H
T H E I R
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C O R E
N E E D S
Locating a campus store in a student center is ideal, especially in high traffic areas
C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
of the building. The sale of text books supports the academic mission of the institution, but are by no means the exclusive item sold in bookstores. The latest
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life
best-seller, apparel, music, convenience store items, and supplies add variety to the offerings of a campus bookstore.
- Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus
Well-lit spaces, inviting shelving, and spaces to pause and peruse encourage students and faculty to browse and find products to feed their intellect, express
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual
their school spirit, and support their daily lives on campus. - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
TOP: Washington & Lee University - campus bookstore BOTTOM: Washington & Lee University - campus bookstore with apparel and merchandise OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - entry atrium with central stair and bookstore storefront beyond
SERVING S U P P LY I N G
S T U D E N T S
W I T H
T H E I R
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C O R E
N E E D S
Locating a campus store in a student center is ideal, especially in high traffic areas
C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
of the building. The sale of text books supports the academic mission of the institution, but are by no means the exclusive item sold in bookstores. The latest
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life
best-seller, apparel, music, convenience store items, and supplies add variety to the offerings of a campus bookstore.
- Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus
Well-lit spaces, inviting shelving, and spaces to pause and peruse encourage students and faculty to browse and find products to feed their intellect, express
- Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual
their school spirit, and support their daily lives on campus. - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
TOP: Washington & Lee University - campus bookstore BOTTOM: Washington & Lee University - campus bookstore with apparel and merchandise OPPOSITE: Washington & Lee University - entry atrium with central stair and bookstore storefront beyond
S U S TA I N I N G INTEGRATING AND REVEALING SUSTAINABLE DESIGN STRATEGIES
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
DURABILITY. A student center is designed to attract students, faculty, staff and community members from the far reaches of a campus to enjoy its activities and resources. Thus, a successful student center is inherently exposed to a high volume of traffic and use. Careful attention to the durability of the materials and finishes of a student center building will go a long way towards saving maintenance investment over the life of the building. CLEANABILITY. A high volume of traffic also impacts the cleaning needs of a student center building. Finishes chosen to minimize the collection of dirt and debris, to avoid fingerprints and smudging, and to coordinate with a staff’s cleaning equipment and methods will maximize efficiency in cleaning efforts. INDOOR AIR QUALITY. Attention to cleanliness will have an important impact on the indoor air quality of a student center. Similarly, the thoughtful choice of finishes and the careful attention to a building’s mechanical and ventilation systems will improve occupant health and well-being. EDUCATION and DISPLAY. Increasingly, college and university students are concerned about the human impact on the natural environment. Pursuing and displaying sustainable design efforts can improve building performance and educate concerned students about a college or university’s efforts towards responsible building practices. Building displays can explain and celebrate efforts addressing the fundamental concerns of sustainable student center design: OTHER KEY ISSUES. Water Conservation, Energy Conservation, Food Service - Energy and Waste Management, Recycling and Waste Management, Durability, Indoor Environmental Quality
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining - Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus - Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
LEFT: Durable natural materials and finishes are long-lasting and minimize maintenance RIGHT: UVA’s College at Wise - student center project, a new campus lake took a regional approach to storm water management and is a defining moment on campus OPPOSITE: Solar shading devices at Averett University modulate the impact of sunlight on the energy performance of the building.
S U S TA I N I N G INTEGRATING AND REVEALING SUSTAINABLE DESIGN STRATEGIES
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
DURABILITY. A student center is designed to attract students, faculty, staff and community members from the far reaches of a campus to enjoy its activities and resources. Thus, a successful student center is inherently exposed to a high volume of traffic and use. Careful attention to the durability of the materials and finishes of a student center building will go a long way towards saving maintenance investment over the life of the building. CLEANABILITY. A high volume of traffic also impacts the cleaning needs of a student center building. Finishes chosen to minimize the collection of dirt and debris, to avoid fingerprints and smudging, and to coordinate with a staff’s cleaning equipment and methods will maximize efficiency in cleaning efforts. INDOOR AIR QUALITY. Attention to cleanliness will have an important impact on the indoor air quality of a student center. Similarly, the thoughtful choice of finishes and the careful attention to a building’s mechanical and ventilation systems will improve occupant health and well-being. EDUCATION and DISPLAY. Increasingly, college and university students are concerned about the human impact on the natural environment. Pursuing and displaying sustainable design efforts can improve building performance and educate concerned students about a college or university’s efforts towards responsible building practices. Building displays can explain and celebrate efforts addressing the fundamental concerns of sustainable student center design: OTHER KEY ISSUES. Water Conservation, Energy Conservation, Food Service - Energy and Waste Management, Recycling and Waste Management, Durability, Indoor Environmental Quality
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining - Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus - Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual - Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large square footage of program
LEFT: Durable natural materials and finishes are long-lasting and minimize maintenance RIGHT: UVA’s College at Wise - student center project, a new campus lake took a regional approach to storm water management and is a defining moment on campus OPPOSITE: Solar shading devices at Averett University modulate the impact of sunlight on the energy performance of the building.
S U S TA I N I N G C R E AT I N G
M E A N I N G F U L
P L AC E S
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
A student union can be seen as a visible symbol of an institution’s future—but it is also in essence the actual “living room” of the campus and hearthstone of the community. Students gather together informally outside classes. They socialize and entertain each other. Commuter students have a place to dine, to relax and to share ideas with residential students. Professors engage students and one another over a cup of coffee. Groups meet in student leadership spaces, meeting rooms or outside on terraces and in amphitheaters. Fans gather to celebrate an important sports victory on the plaza.
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
A union marks a crucial campus focal point and in a rich mix of uses, brings together the diverse body of students with the collegiate community for a complete integration of campus life.
- Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large
TOP: UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - Reading Room BOTTOM: Richard Stockton College - campus portal with cafe and retail dining OPPOSITE: UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - students gather to study and conduct research within a series of pavilions organized around a garden courtyard
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus - Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual
square footage of program
S U S TA I N I N G C R E AT I N G
M E A N I N G F U L
P L AC E S
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN C R E AT I N G
A
V I B R A N T
H O M E
F O R
S T U D E N T
L I F E
A student union can be seen as a visible symbol of an institution’s future—but it is also in essence the actual “living room” of the campus and hearthstone of the community. Students gather together informally outside classes. They socialize and entertain each other. Commuter students have a place to dine, to relax and to share ideas with residential students. Professors engage students and one another over a cup of coffee. Groups meet in student leadership spaces, meeting rooms or outside on terraces and in amphitheaters. Fans gather to celebrate an important sports victory on the plaza.
- Developing Community, Meeting, Dining, Gathering, Serving, Sustaining
A union marks a crucial campus focal point and in a rich mix of uses, brings together the diverse body of students with the collegiate community for a complete integration of campus life.
- Planned Carefully – intimate and comfortable while housing a variety and large
TOP: UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - Reading Room BOTTOM: Richard Stockton College - campus portal with cafe and retail dining OPPOSITE: UVA’s Jefferson Scholars Graduate Fellows Center - students gather to study and conduct research within a series of pavilions organized around a garden courtyard
- Active, Vibrant Center of Campus Life - Community and Student Ownership that captures and nurtures the ideals and traditions of a campus - Attract Students for a Variety of Activities – both planned and casual
square footage of program
STUDENT CENTER CLIENTS S T U D E N T
C E N T E R
C L I E N T S
VMDO ARCHITECTS D E S I G N S
W I T H
P U R P O S E
As architects with over 30 years of experience designing residential buildings for educational institutions, we bring value throughout the design and construction process. Our goal is to oversee the design and construction of a long-term asset for your campus. As your architect, we will: Incorporate constituent input. Successfully designing for an institution means incorporating the input of a variety of stakeholders. We understand how to engage a complex network of constituents in a fluid and effective design process. Their involvement ensures that our buildings resonate with the needs and culture of your particular collegiate community. Attend to critical construction details. Our continuous work on student centers means we are familiar not just with their spaces, but also with their construction. We understand what works and what doesn’t. We attend to the critical details so that your building will perform efficiently and effectively well into the future. Design for the campus. We are committed to the long-term care and development of a campus. As stewards of a campus, we understand that our buildings will make an impact on a place for years to come. We work hard to ensure that our design will both reflect and support a thriving academic environment.
AVERETT UNIVERSITY CLEMSON UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON AND LEE UNIVERSITY THE RICHARD STOCKTON COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY SWEET BRIAR COLLEGE THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA’S COLLEGE AT WISE THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
STUDENT CENTER CLIENTS S T U D E N T
C E N T E R
C L I E N T S
VMDO ARCHITECTS D E S I G N S
W I T H
P U R P O S E
As architects with over 30 years of experience designing residential buildings for educational institutions, we bring value throughout the design and construction process. Our goal is to oversee the design and construction of a long-term asset for your campus. As your architect, we will: Incorporate constituent input. Successfully designing for an institution means incorporating the input of a variety of stakeholders. We understand how to engage a complex network of constituents in a fluid and effective design process. Their involvement ensures that our buildings resonate with the needs and culture of your particular collegiate community. Attend to critical construction details. Our continuous work on student centers means we are familiar not just with their spaces, but also with their construction. We understand what works and what doesn’t. We attend to the critical details so that your building will perform efficiently and effectively well into the future. Design for the campus. We are committed to the long-term care and development of a campus. As stewards of a campus, we understand that our buildings will make an impact on a place for years to come. We work hard to ensure that our design will both reflect and support a thriving academic environment.
AVERETT UNIVERSITY CLEMSON UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON AND LEE UNIVERSITY THE RICHARD STOCKTON COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY SWEET BRIAR COLLEGE THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA’S COLLEGE AT WISE THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
STUDENT CENTER DESIGN D E S I G N I N G
V I B R A N T
“ As a practitioner and as a client, I have
C E N T E R S
O F
“ What makes the Commons, I
C A M P U S
L I F E
“ During the twenty-one years I
enjoyed working with greatly talented
think sets it apart is the fact that
have worked with architectural
architectural firms. VMDO was one
the designers seem to have really
and engineering firms, I have dealt
of the best firms in Virginia within
understood our campus and our
with none who have exhibited
a few months of its organization...
students in a way that they interact
the standards of professionalism,
Through the years, the firm has
and the kind of spaces that they
problem-solving, customer relations,
never lost sight of the importance
would use. We do feel that we have
and design creativity as VMDO. They
of attracting, training, and retaining
a kind of unique student body and
have developed design(s) for the
the brightest and the best. VMDO is
this building again really seems to
College and put them into action
today stronger than it has ever been,
be based on an understanding of our
on buildings and landscapes on our
from top to bottom, and it is now, in
strengths and our own culture. That’s
campus, which is bringing about
my opinion, one of the very best firms
remarkable.”
change and putting character into our
in the country.”
buildings.”
Samuel A. Anderson III, FAIA
Tom Contos
Simeon E. Ewing
Former Architect
University Architect
Associate Chancellor
University of Virginia
Washington & Lee University
UVa’a College at Wise
200 EAST MARKET STREET
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22902
434.296.5684