Georgia Institute of Technology – Workshop Architects

Georgia Tech John Lewis Student Center by Workshop Architects

Strategic Vision / Master Planning / Programming / Architecture

Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Tech Campus Center
Atlanta, Georgia

Reset, Restore, and Refuel

Workshop was selected, in partnership with Gilbane Building Company, Cooper Carry (architects) of Atlanta, and OLIN (landscape architects) of Philadelphia, after winning the Campus Center Ideas Competition.

With three new buildings, one building renovation, several lightweight tactical structures, and a network of new outdoor pathways and plazas, Georgia Tech’s new Campus Center project transforms the campus from its symbolic core, Tech Green, and radiate west.

Named after the late congressman and civil rights leader, the John Lewis Student Center is the main building of the new five-structure complex, and is a prominent destination on the campus, offering students a welcoming oasis to “reset, restore, and refuel.”

According to research conducted by Workshop, the intense nature of student life made even a ten-minute walk to the old Student Center difficult, and students reported desire for deeper levels of wellness and wellbeing. By distributing various functions and services along a quarter-mile Experiential Path, the Campus Center brings students more opportunities socialization, support, and community. Additionally, the path features a winding forested walkway that made a previously steep grade accessible.

The John Lewis Student Center combines both renovated and newly constructed elements. It has revitalized a dark and enclosed building from the 1960s, transforming it into the heart of the campus. The center now boasts abundant daylight, views both inside and outside, and numerous indoor and outdoor lounges where students can take a break.

The project includes spaces for student organizations, theaters, coffee shops, dining venues, an arts and crafts center connected to the experiential path, and a renovated bowling and recreation center. At the core of the Campus Center, a redesigned plaza and water spray fountain now grace the Kessler Campanile, a beloved icon on campus.

GA Tech_John Lewis Student Center_Lounge

GA Tech_John Lewis Student Center_Dining Seating

GA Tech_John Lewis Student Center_Dining Area

GA Tech_John Lewis Student Center_Student Organizations

GA Tech_John Lewis Student Center_Recreation

Architectural Photography by Jonathan Hillyer

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