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Master Plan Phase 1, Richland Community College

Decatur, Illinois

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Senior Living
Religious
PreK-12 Education
Higher Education
Healthcare
Fitness & Recreation
Community
Commercial
Branded Environments
Features:
  • 45,000 s.f. renovation
  • active learning spaces
  • science labs
  • integrated technology
  • ​flexible furnishings
  • ​student support spaces
Several of Richland Community College’s high-performing programs were in need of renovated spaces to refocus the emphasis of learning to a student-centered model. As part of the $11.6-million first phase of a multi-phase master plan, two exterior spaces were updated and 45,000 s.f. of interior renovations were made to facilitate critical thinking and allow experiential learning through real-world problem solving in flexible spaces.

New active-learning spaces include Biology, Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Health Science, and Earth Science labs. Each lab is now fitted with the latest technology paired with environments that encourage collaboration, provide natural light, offer ample storage, and prioritize safety.
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In addition to the classroom improvements, several student support spaces and informal collaboration spaces have been added or renovated to enhance the overall experience of students. The Academic Success Center and Online Learning offices both received major upgrades to improve the approachability and visibility of the programs for students seeking assistance. 
I really, really like my new class room.
It’s swanky, slick, and uptown.
It’s like upgrading from a Pinto to a Porsche. 
The students were very impressed with it as well!


- Faculty Member, Richland Community College

Built for dynamic use and flexibility.

  • The environment is visually connected by furnishings and finishes that complement a bright color palette and welcoming feel.

  • Small collaboration areas are found throughout the renovated areas and are equipped with soft seating and writable surfaces to encourage individual and small-group study environments.
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  • A DIRTT prefabricated interior wall system was used to complete this complex project in a tight timeline, with minimal loss of instructional time.

Related Projects

Burrill Hall: School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois
Gerber Center for Student Life: Augustana College
Health Sciences Center: Rock Valley College
Carroll Center for Innovative Learning: Richland Community College
BACK TO ALL WORK
          See other Designs
Senior Living
Religious
PreK-12 Education