Northeastern University, Speare Commons Student Services Center

Northeastern University, in its continuing mission to reposition itself as a residential university and increase campus residency rates, chose to improve and consolidate the delivery of its student services offerings into a single location. The school desired a spatial and figurative center to encourage socializing and increase the convenience of on-campus living.
Speare Hall, a vacated dining room in the heart of campus, was selected because of its location and potential. With staff and student input, the architect brought new life to the location through a “one-stop” concept that integrated the need for office space as well as a common gathering area.
The cavernous lobby was organized into a colorful welcoming area surrounded by administrative rooms. A semi-transparent wall was established, with corrugated metal finishing and glowing azure portals that serve as wayfinding elements and link the rooms together. Custom light pendants invite passers-by from the outside and scale the two-story interior atrium.
A new entrance along Huntington Avenue opens to a new reception desk. It provides an instant sense of welcome and direction to students, and fosters a sense of placement and community.

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