Joel Sanders Architect

Our design transforms two underutilized spaces into flexible multipurpose learning environments that foster community among the civil and environmental engineering students and faculty. The Study Lounge is divided into two overlapping zones. The first zone, treated as an animated hub, opens directly off the hallway and is equipped with bleachers, tables and chairs. It can be used for socializing, eating, study, and events. The second zone, located behind a media wall defines a computer lab for quiet study.

The Lab is a work space that provides identity and community for environmental engineering graduate students. It is subdivided into two overlapping areas. A dropped ceiling folds vertically to create an upholstered seating area where students can relax or engage in quiet conversation. Two linear desks are oriented towards sliding white board panels creating an interactive learning environment, revealing a computer monitor behind. Both rooms are unified by common chartreuse and brown materials, a color palette that represents the student’s engagement with ecological studies.