In concert with the College of Communication’s mission, the design for this lobby and study lounge encourages the exchange of information between university students, faculty, and visitors. The renovation included the removal of an outdated computer lab and an existing lobby stair to the second level. Large plasma screen walls in the lobby display donor recognition, student projects, directories, announcements, and campus, local, and national news. The tailored wood architectural vocabulary established in the lobby space informs the designs for the seating areas in the study lounge. Multiple types of group and independent seating areas serve to subdivide the large volume into distinct study areas and offer a rich variety of options for inhabiting the space. Great care was taken to maintain the original waffle slab ceiling through careful concealment of surface mounted utilities.

Sustainability: renovation of an existing space instead of building new to minimize demolition waste; removal of old computer equipment and commissioning existing mechanical equipment to reduce heat load and increase energy efficiency; exclusive specification of fluorescent lighting and energy star appliances to reduce energy usage; provision for recycling locations throughout the space; and low-VOC paints, sealants, adhesives, and carpet and recessed walk-off mats to collect dirt and debris at the main entrance to improve indoor air quality