The ubiquitous inviting porticos fronting University of Maryland buildings serve as an inspiration for the new Hillel in both a literal and figurative sense: the new Hillel features an actual portico at its main facade and the building is conceived throughout as an extension of the portico. The columns on the main facade serve multiple functions: entry portico, arcade for protected movement and gathering, and screen that partially obscures a parking lot across the street. Columns are exposed throughout the building - and out to the terrace - to reinforce the idea that the entire building is a welcoming portico.
The Hillel at the University of Maryland is part of a network of about 550 centers serving students at colleges and universities around the world. As stated on the Hillel International website, Hillels operate with the mission of “Enriching the lives of Jewish students students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world.” The new Hillel will be a 39,000 GSF building located in downtown College Park bordering the Frat Row houses and will contain the following: 70-seat cafe; 300-person dining room; kosher kitchen; demonstration kitchen; various prayer, study, and meeting spaces accommodating over 500 people simultaneously; offices; student lounge; and an outdoor terrace.