Cities and states are hard at work on plans to reopen the nation’s colleges and universities in the fall. A typical dormitory has shared living and study spaces. Dining on campus is set up to accommodate hundreds in one sitting. Student centers are just that, centers where students gather and collaborate. Reopening that embraces student-centered design, which supports social distancing and includes easily cleanable surfaces, will be the priority.
Changing design needs for student centers
Post COVID, the Student Center will no doubt transition from one large gathering place to several, smaller study pod locations, keeping social distancing in mind. When students gather they expect the furniture here to be multi-functional. Kwalu’s comfortable lounge furniture, with its warm wood-like finishes and power options, creates that flexible higher education design for study pods. Lounge seating and occasional tables are the furniture of choice. A solid surface topped ottoman is excellent for this flexible space. It serves double duty as a seat and a type of table.
The new residence hall
Students want a residence hall that reflects their style of living and learning. There may be single occupancy rooms now. There will be stricter cleaning measures in residence halls. Kwalu’s higher education furniture for the residence hall lobby features lounge collections, benches and occasional tables, all, with its warm wood-like finishes and bleach-cleanable daily. The Diamante Bench works in a special nook, with plush seating for quiet study.
Design for sports and activity centers
Sports is the lifeblood of college campus life. It is the location where many of our Olympic athletes train. The furniture in sports and activity centers has to be movable for social distancing and, I know it sounds like a broken record, easily cleaned. Modular furniture, smaller tables and stools like the Sciara Bar Stool are preferred.