Chabot College’s Library and Learning Connection building received a 2020 Community College Facility Coalition (CCFC) Professional Design Award of Excellence in the Project in Design category and was also one of four HMC–designed projects that won an Award of Honor from the American Institute of Architects Inland California (AIAIC). Both awards were announced on November 12 at CCFC’s 27th Annual Conference and the AIAIC Award Ceremony respectively.
Whether they are first-generation students or lifelong learners, each student at Chabot College in Hayward, California has unique educational needs and journeys. The design team proactively engaged students, faculty members, and other stakeholders to understand these journeys and developed a design that focused on visual clarity and transparency. The design thoughtfully intertwines academic resources, study and social spaces to soothe stigma around seeking help. The four-story atrium provides an unobstructed visual connection through the building to the upper floors, and spaces clustered around the atrium are branded for easy wayfinding. A café, library, learning resources, and variety of open and closed study spaces promote active student lifestyle and encourage social participation. Open floor plans, large windows, and glazed skylights flood the atrium with daylight and put learning on display. Studies show that student success increases when they have access to centralized resources, a visual connection to social activity, and feel a sense of belonging. By removing barriers and supporting the holistic student experience, the new center will become a hub for collaboration and success for future Chabot students. HMC is designing the project in collaboration with Group 4 Architecture who is also the architect of record. Construction will begin in 2021.
“This recognition is very special because the project’s design is the result of a fantastic collaboration between the design team, the district, Chabot College, and the Hayward community,” said HMC’s Managing Principal Marko Blagojevic. “The design of the Library and Learning Connection seeks to engage and empower students to enhance their learning and campus experience. It will have a tremendous impact on students and the community.”
The CCFC works to provide leadership in legislative advocacy and deliver critical information, education, and training on facilities issues for community college districts and their business partners to enhance student learning. The American Institute of Architects is the most prominent membership organization for licensed architects, emerging professionals, and allied partners. AIAIC serves the public, the profession, and its members in San Bernardino County and western Riverside County with programs and services to advance the art of architecture and enhance the quality of our environment.
