Student Housing

Tompkins Cortland Community College (TC3) asked HOLT Architects to execute a feasibility study and cost analysis for the renovation of two residence halls constructed in 1986 and/or a building addition to connect the buildings with program that would create a more cohesive and engaging living experience for TC3 students. The goal of this project resulting from the study was to connect the two buildings with a new three floor addition that would help transform the traditional residence halls into a vibrant live-learn community. The elements necessary to accomplish this include:

• An active common / activity space for student residents to gather and socialize

• Flex space for a variety of functions

• Quiet study and group study spaces

• A new main entrance to the building

• Student services amenities

• Direct access to the exterior lawn

• Views back to campus and to the surrounding landscape

Many programs were explored to determine the layout of the addition. Options included segmenting the different spaces by building level, which allowed each level to have a view of the entire campus, organizing the program radially to provide strong connections between spaces, and centrally locating the flex space with other program areas organized around it.

This project supports the ongoing movement of community colleges, transforming from commuter colleges to 24/7 campuses. Housing dynamic and flexible common spaces for students to gather and socialize, the building now fosters connections, offers 24/7 amenities, and encourages learning to exist outside of the classroom.