Chabot College celebrated the topping off of Chabot College Library and Learning Connections. HMC Architects, Group 4 Architecture, Rudolph and Sletten, Chabot faculty and staff, and prominent community members were in attendance to sign their names to the building’s final beam and celebrate the construction milestone.

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 the 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 a variety of open and closed study spaces promote an 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.

The building will be ready to welcome students in December 2023.