SJCCD Student Resource Center

San Jose Community College District

The unused office space was re-purposed to create the first truly student-dedicated space in this Student Union Building. The mission of the project was to provide a space where students could work on homework, attend workshops, hold club meetings, and get assistance from counselors. 

Project success centered on shifting campus culture towards student needs while providing a comfortable safe space within the project budget. Early in the design process, it became clear that different stakeholder groups had opposing needs. For example, the Veteran’s Center wanted to be incorporated into this new space but prioritized quiet and privacy over the loud and active needs of the other groups. Other conflicting desires included visibility to make sure students understood this was a space for them. Compared with the need to control sound and have a productive center. Ultimately the design struck a balance. 

The Veteran’s Center remained as it was, maintaining a safe refuge, with the Student Resource Center Wrapped around it providing a space for everyone. Glass storefronts were added to control sounds and define the space while still allowing passersby to see the activity happening inside. A purple accent wall grabs attention in the mostly white building while incorporating school spirit. Furniture was selected to encourage versatility and flexibility allowing the user to easily rearrange based on need.