The community college client challenged Legat Architects to transform an existing satellite campus from an “educational drive-through” into an activity hub. The 14,000-sf adaptive re-use project converts vacant office space into classrooms and student gathering zones that keep students and staff on campus longer.

The entry lobby doubles in size and comes to life with a translucent ribbon that bends around the suspended light fixtures and descends to a single, low-hanging light centered over group collaborative space. The “chandelier study” serves as a gathering zone with views into the space and out toward historic downtown Blue Island’s street life.

The second floor feels larger than reality with a ring circulation path that reveals a variety of student gathering spaces to suit the individual’s study habits. Each corner reveals a playful or solemn place for learning. The “student loft” filters diffuse north light through the preserved glass block façade, while wood floors and exposed ductwork recall the building’s industrial roots.

The renovated space adds a new energy to downtown Blue Island and meets sustainability goals. Several elements of the existing building were preserved, salvaged or reused: doors, frames, glass, light fixtures, furniture, mechanical systems and the glass block façade.