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Oakton Student Center

Oakton Community College Des Plaines, Illinois

Student feedback inspires design of campus “living room”

Renovations transform classrooms and offices into the Student Center at the heart of Oakton Community College’s campus. The 5,900-square-foot space encourages students to spend time on campus and provides a hub for Oakton’s 50-plus student clubs and organizations.

HIGHLIGHTS

Glass panels keep views open and exhibit Oakton campus
Center displays and accesses a new outdoor terrace
Tech-equipped podiums, recessed projector screen, and movable seating enable main gathering area to transform into venue for readings or presentations

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Open for Activities

The Student Center features a large open area (often called the campus living room), as well as staff offices, smaller meeting rooms, student leadership offices, and a space for the college newspaper.

Bring the Outside In

Nine-foot-high glass walls display Lake Oakton and part of the Lee Center for Science and Health Careers. Vibrant colors, patterns, and glass etchings reinforce the outdoor connection.

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Cozy Quarters

A feature wall of reclaimed barn wood includes a slender fireplace.

Invitation

The glass wall invites students passing in the corridor to explore the Student Center and the Oakton campus beyond.

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Student Inspiration

A team of student representatives participated throughout the design of the project. During planning, students and staff joined the Legat team on tours of student spaces at other college campuses.