The Many Benefits of Designing Student Centers to Elevate Belonging, Creativity, and Wellness, Published in School Construction News

In a recently published article, Spiezle Principal John Wright discusses the importance of architectural design in student centers, which leads to environments that nurture belonging, creativity, and wellness. Collaborations between architects, college administrators, and student representatives have resulted in such successes as the Zen Den at Rider University, a renovated lounge that provides a relaxing atmosphere and break from the noise of the surrounding campus.

“A crucial role of the Zen Den is supporting neurodivergent students, many of whom struggle with feelings of overstimulation and need a break from technology,” said Wright. “Spiezle designed the Zen Den so that students can interact with its features, such as textured surfaces and light patterns that create warm colors when touched. Light-based therapy tools such as touch lights in different colors and brightness have demonstrated benefits for neurodivergent individuals.”

The Zen Den incorporates biophilic design elements to promote calm and cognitive restoration by connecting indoor environments with nature. Biophilic design is equally crucial for campus sports training facilities. Colleges such as Atlantic Cape Community College (ACCC) in Hamilton, New Jersey, are investing in modernized facilities and creating a more supportive, personalized approach for individual students’ physical and mental well-being.

“Whether a college builds something new or renovates an outdated venue, students expect and deserve holistic resources on campus,” says Wright. “A collaborative process between architects, campus leadership, and student groups leads to positive outcomes that support more sustainable student growth and development while driving a school’s recruitment and long-term success.”

Read the story in full, click here.