Trending Solutions In College Design

Looking at the research, studies and articles coming out over the past three years, it is easy to see that colleges require a delicate balance when it comes to maintaining facilities. There are financial pressures, student demands, the desire to stay competitive and many other nuanced difficulties factoring into each decision you make. These difficulties are the precise reason that trends arise in the architecture and renovation of higher education facilities. The trends are not merely fads, but the most popular (and effective) solutions in the industry. Balancing your facilities maintenance can be as simple as working with an experienced architecture firm to find an effective solution for your campus among these trends.

In looking at the challenges below, consider that each has a counterpart trend that can both resolve the issue and add something exciting to your campus.

Nuts and Bolts

Each project needs to be viewed with a holistic approach; understanding that one element is not a singular piece, yet necessary and valuable to the entire facility and occupants within. Maintenance updates are key to controlling costs and staying compliant, yet creating an enticing space to attract students is of equal importance. Strategically balancing needed repairs with a design that is meaningful strengthens the facility in its entirety.

Sustainability

Sustainable design is beneficial to students, faculty, the environment and our surrounding community. Apply conscious decisions for both new construction and renovation projects, integrating sustainable practices and building systems. Responsible buildings can target LEED® building certification, decrease long term operating costs and educate users about sustainability and environmental awareness.

Welcoming

The student union is a welcoming space which reflects the unique personality that set one university apart from another. We believe you need to work with all campus users, including students, to learn about desired design style and current issues; assuring an appropriate, responsive design that achieves project goals, sparks creative interest and attracts students.

Innovative

Within campus walls, innovative design features and technologies allow students to explore themselves and their creative imaginations. Elements including interactive touch screens and creative material use have the potential to reaffirm campus culture and accelerate learning opportunities, making an impact not only on design, but within each individual.

Collaborate

Comfortable and engaging spaces bring everyone together, promoting teamwork and the sharing of ideas in a casual atmosphere. To accommodate all types of meeting styles, flexible environments and furnishings allow for collaborative project discussions.

Adaptable

Multi-purpose rooms have risen in popularity due to increasing student populations, the establishment of new majors and hands-on learning and teaching methods. To accommodate the needs of today’s programs, students and professors can arrange modular furniture in numerous configurations, utilizing the space to best fit their needs.

Recreation

Physical activity promotes healthy bodies and encourages social exchange. Uniting students together in environments that are relaxing - yet lively - gives them a comforting home away from home.

How are you addressing your campus’ challenges? Are you finding the trending solutions hold true for you?