Hamden, CT – Svigals + Partners announced the completed renovation of Quinnipiac University’s growing Center for Communications and Engineering (CCE) in Hamden.
Originally designed as a law library and later converted into student classrooms, labs, makerspaces, lounges, and study areas, the centrally located campus facility had become dated with dark and inefficient work zones. Working within a project area of 7,700sf, Svigals + Partners transformed key spaces within the 1995 structure, including a 3-story atrium, into modern learning and interaction areas. Aligning the space with Quinnipiac University’s forward-thinking approach to education and career development, the design team introduced studying and socializing zones, huddle rooms, and redesigned classrooms and a computer lab.
In the student lounge’s meeting and gathering area, the renovation focused on adding collaborative offerings while maximizing available daylight and openness. Six new huddle rooms set at the back of the main open area offer moveable tables and chairs for four-to-six occupants set inside sleek transparent enclosures with linear pendant lighting fixtures. Nearby, two new double-height study areas and two enclosed makerspaces draw students past two grand staircases flanking the triple-height space for socializing and small group work.
The design team reorganized exposed mechanical systems, highlighting the visible underside of the ceiling deck and ductwork with clean finishes resulting in a modern industrial aesthetic. A large display monitor that presents school news and achievements is mounted on panel wrapped in perforated metal with acoustical felt backing for sound-absorption. Adjacent is a new custom display case showcasing student accomplishments.
The design team also installed wall-mounted monitors that show activities inside the lab rooms located off either of two corridors. These displays encourage both CCE students and curious visitors to venture toward additional updated study areas, display cases, a classroom, and computer room at the building’s west end.
In this area, a newly modernized and redesigned classroom has shifted from its former, lecture-style layout. Instead, Svigals + Partners reinforces Quinnipiac University’s student teamwork approach by centering the room with six large tables, moveable chairs, and monitors at each work area. A large wall graphic at the back of the classroom adds visual interest and a university-branded touch, and an overhead skylight brings in natural daylight. Two more gathering areas adjacent to the classroom include an open lounge area with casual lounge seating, a video monitor and display cases, plus an enclosed study room furnished with tables, chairs, and monitors. Nearby, the design team also updated an enclosed computer lab.
