Expanding University Student Support Spaces

DRAW worked with Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) to construct three student success-focused spaces totaling 8,000 square feet, with two additional projects currently under development.

DRAW provided architectural services to move the Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) and Writing Center from their current locations to a new home in the Stabley Library. DRAW worked with both groups to plan and build out their spaces in the library and fit within the area allocated by the University while meeting their unique programmatic needs.

For the CPDC, DRAW developed a space with a separate, direct entry to make it accessible from across campus. The front entry area was created as a welcoming space modeled after a coffee shop so students will feel more comfortable to enter and explore the services provided by the CPDC. Multiple layout options were prepared by DRAW for review with the CPDC to understand their spatial needs and ensure that they are addressed within the space assigned by IUP.

Moving to the library space presented a unique opportunity for the Writing Center to offer its services in the same spaces where students are studying and working on writing assignments. After reviewing several options, DRAW developed an option that created a new “storefront” within the library to raise awareness of the Writing Center program. The space was developed to create a place for students to work informally as well as spaces that allowed for direct one-on-one assistance.