Monroe College, Academic Center

New Rochelle, New York

Firm

Doban Architecture

Client

Monroe College

Area

2,360 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$400,000

Completion Date

09/2010

The Academic Center brings faculty and students together to focus on learning in mathematics and English in a unique, custom-built environment. Interior spaces at three adjoining storefront spaces were transformed to create a tutoring center in the midst of faculty offices so that students have easy, inviting access to faculty. Development of the project required close collaboration between the design team and faculty to gain an understanding of different learning styles and optimum learning environments.

The team of architects, furniture designers and fabricators designed custom furnishings and prefabricated wall systems for the facility, including tables where students and a teacher share a sliding whiteboard and computer monitor, but each have their own keyboard; non-hierarchical collaborative tables configured for group meetings; and prefabricated faculty offices for one-on-one tutoring.

The center is visible through newly created window openings, which feature glass in a gradient of transparencies. Deep, saturated colors were used to distinguish the center from the rest of the hallway and mark the entrance.