Student Center | Norfolk State University
Norfolk, Virginia
The 84,500-SF Student Center and its connecting bridge to the 56,000-SF Student Services Center create a gateway from campus residential spaces to the academic spaces and central quad, providing common dining and gathering space for students and faculty alike. The project began with demolition of the original 1967 student commons and redesign of a 2006 building plan. TMA worked within the constraints of the 2006 footprint to minimize impact to the site and to expedite the construction and permitting process, while completely revising the exterior style and interior configuration of the building.
The Student Center is widely known as “the hub” of the Norfolk State University student experience. It is home to the university bookstore, a fitness and training center, food court and dining area, meeting rooms, board room, offices, and a multi-purpose room/auditorium with an indoor/outdoor stage.
Durability and functionality were important considerations in interior design and furnishing selections. A seamless transition between spaces was maintained by using repeated materials such as cherry hardwood, brushed metal finishes, and the school colors of green and gold. A key factor was a level of flexibility that allows for collaborative, impromptu gatherings in both public and more private spaces.