Project Description
To close achievement gaps and improve graduation rates among at-risk student groups, California State Long Beach (CSULB) transformed a 1950s-era campus building into a Student Success Center. The SmithGroup-designed adaptive reuse met challenging budget constraints and sustainability goals, while creating an inclusive community that consolidates sixteen diverse support services, provides valuable learning and gathering spaces and enables students to thrive.
The new Student Success Center reimagines Peterson Hall, a mid-century three-story concrete frame building located at the center of campus adjacent to Friendship Walk, a major campus pedestrian route. The University’s vision was to create a place of gathering and support, which required a complete transformation of the existing structure which was filled with dark, cellular classrooms and labs.
The original concrete building has been repurposed into an open and inviting destination that consolidates academic resources, health and wellness activities, varied study environments and social interactions in a contextually responsive setting. It activates a key site at the heart of the campus and student life, adjacent to the student union and library.
A new glazed “treehouse” student lounge redefines the entry sequence, engaging students and giving the building a new presence on campus. A light-filled main stairway and inviting courtyard add to the sense of welcome and respite. The drab hallways and classrooms have been modernized as a day-lit, dynamic, porous space that draw students to a variety of alcoves and comfortable seating arrangements. Even the previously underused basement now welcomes students, whether in art studios and laboratories or studying or gathering in the seating areas in the corridors.
The conversion of an outdated building into a modern Student Success Center is a symbol of evolution and imagination. The CSULB Student Success Center has created an inviting, inspiring environment where students can access invaluable personal and academic support on their path to a bright future.