The transformation at Middlesex College continues with a new 30,000-square-foot Student Center, signaling its momentum in an education market that is responding to new demands from students, new technology and lifestyle and career cycles.
Together with a Multipurpose Community Venue and the new Middlesex County Magnet School, the student center is part of the county’s community, innovation and opportunity strategic investment plan.
DMR Architects is the architect of record for the student center, while AECOM is the design architect for the student center and the architect for the Multipurpose Community Venue.
In addition to featuring student meeting and study spaces, a game room and a restaurant, the new facility will house an expanded culinary arts program that will offer two new labs — doubling the capacity of the program — as well as adding a terrace for events. It will also give students hands-on service experience at its restaurant with indoor seating as well as the Multipurpose Community Venue, a 6,500 capacity sports and event facility, that is expected to break ground this fall.
“The CIO plan isn’t merely an aspiration or a ‘hope’ of ours, it’s a reality,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald Rios said.
“For all of us who call Middlesex County home, the CIO strategy will be a game-changer in our economy and the quality of our lives — this includes improving the lives of students, faculty and staff that work and attend Middlesex College.”
DMR CEO Pradeep Kapoor said the firm is thrilled to be involved. The culinary program expansion represents the fifth project DMR has done with the county.
“Middlesex County’s investment in higher learning exemplifies that education is a robust development area in New Jersey’s landscape to entice local students to stay in-state with unique offerings in engaging spaces,” he said.
DMR’s work at Middlesex College also included the 2016 design of West Hall and the 2011 design of David B. Crabiel Hall, totaling more than $20 million in construction value.
The 32,000-square-foot West Hall was designed to support the school’s complete change to its business model into a student services model and became the central event space on campus.
The 36,000-square-foot Crabiel Hall was the first new construction building in the prior decade, kicking off the tremendous proceeding development of the campus, while adding functional, social and educational space. It was also the first green building on campus and served as a place maker, creating a new gateway onto campus.
