Luther Student Center reinforces Lake Land College’s commitment to access and student success, creates a new front door to campus
The 19,000-square-foot expansion and 26,000-square-foot modernization of the Luther Student Center combine Admissions, Student Services, and Student Life functions into a new one-stop center that creates a strong first impression and eases navigation.
The central circulation space greets prospective students with a two-story-high open lobby space and welcome desk, computer lab, restrooms, and expanded student gathering space. The link between the addition and the existing building accommodates student life space for food service and dining, as well as an informal tiered seating area for student gatherings.
Before the Luther Student Center project, the main entrance to the campus was difficult to find. The new entry, featuring a roof that extends 17 feet beyond the building, clearly identifies where students should go. The thinness of the roof and its reflective metal panels create an image that is both modern and welcoming.
A renovation creates the new Laker Nest Bookstore, which has increased traffic and sales compared to the older bookstore. The project also adds an overhead door for the delivery of supplies to the store.
A new home among other student services makes the college’s police department much more visible and easier to access than its previous location in a converted home.
Clerestory glazing brings natural light deeper into the corridors. Sleek, unobtrusive light fixtures provide artificial light while keeping the two-story space light and airy. The computer lab’s location in the center of the floor plan offers easy access for all departments. Retractable folding glass partitions allow the computer lab to be fully open or closed when a class is in session.
Brick-clad blocks flank the center glass volume. The glass openings that stripe the brick are sized and placed in a rhythmic pattern reminiscent of a longitudinal sound wave. The mullions on the central glass box follow a similar beat.
This state-of-the-art facility reflects our student-centered culture by creating a seamless experience for both current and prospective students.
