Argyros Forum at Chapman University

Chapman University

STUDENT UNION

at ARGYROS FORUM [ orange, ca ]

PROJECT

Chapman University Student Union at Argyros Forum LOCATION

Orange, CA

AC Martin provided a feasibility study, programming report, and architectural/interior design services for this much-anticipated Student Union Expansion and Renovation to the existing Argyros Forum at Chapman University. Located at the heart of campus, the building went through a revolutionary transformation to bring the campus together through a series of warm and inviting places to mingle and relax; increased food options with late-night hours; technology and non-institutional furnishings to help build a community feel; and event space for student performances. The primary goal for the University was to provide a ‘home away from home’ that would encourage both commuting and boarding students to linger, collaborate and study in between and after classes.

The project created a student-focused facility with dedicated meeting spaces, large multipurpose space, performance space with built-in stage, Living Room with fireplace, a variety of seating arrangements and study areas, new dining venues, and a student-run information desk. The program included enclosure of a two-story outdoor courtyard that was previously framed by a concrete trellis, and added space at the second level deck. This new rooftop terrace features planters, built-in seating and an outdoor living space centered around a fireplace.

Flexibility in programming and overlapping functions informed the design of the facility. Integrating foodservice and entertainment venues was important. The ability to host larger performances and concerts was achieved via operable walls and by designing and specifying light modular furniture that could be pushed aside to accommodate an audience.

Throughout the space, warm yet modern materials and furnishings were selected to make the center less institutional. Walnut paneling wraps existing concrete columns and forms louvered screens between programmatic functions. Exposed ceilings, carefully located soffits and use of existing ceiling elevations allowed for an design that is economical yet rich and visually interesting. Glowing pendants, floor lamps, and indirect lighting give the space with a hospitable, almost residential feel.

Within the central Living Room, several smaller seating areas are clearly defined with custom-designed carpets allowing students to find or create their own unique, comfortable niche. Furnishings are soft, yet durable and the seating is designed to be light and moveable to afford students a sense of ownership and the ability to customize their space according to their needs, whether it be individual study, group work, socialization, eating or just relaxing.

Outdoor Dining

First floor conceptual space plan.

Warm communal tables featured in the fresh, modern cafeteria space.

Age-appropriate design: creating a space for students.

Before and after renovation.

Custom-designed carpet patterns create discrete areas within the Living Room.

Grab-n-go retailers were placed near the entry in order to decentralize the queuing process and increase flow.

A holistic design is achieved by designing the furnishings, grab-n-go retail and millwork simultaneously.

Existing space transitions to new space.

New upper terrace lounge area.

chapman university

STUDENT UNION

at ARGYROS FORUM

Client Size

Chapman University 19,275 SF new construction 23,361 SF renovation (includes 2,077 SF outdoor area)

Completion Location Key Points

2011 Orange, CA • Flexibility in programming and overlapping functions.

• Integration of foodservice and entertainment venues.

• Warm, modern materials and furnishings make the space less institutional.

• Large area broken down into comfortable smaller nooks and seating areas.

• Economical design that is rich and visually interesting.

• Hospitable setting that feels residential.

• Light, moveable furniture that students can arrange to their liking.