Seaton Computing Center

Glen Ellyn, Illinois / United States of America

The Seaton Computing Center (SCC) at College of DuPage (COD) had been described as 'foreboding, bunker-like, and dark.' Naturally, the designers commissioned to renovate the SRC perceived this former description of the facility as a lure toward a unique challenge: create a modern, inviting instructional facility that would convey a celebratory, high-tech image, while offering healthy space for collaboration and growth. Ultimately, the project would become the most impactful and transformative renewal on COD's campus to-date.

Located on a highly-visible site with natural linkage to multiple campus facilities, the transformed SCC now features a dramatic, light-filled entry atrium that serves as a grand entrance and organizational element, while enhancing interior flexibility. The result is a multi-use, open and flexible interior space free of the former dead-end corridors, lack of natural light, and bunker-like qualities.

The newly-flexible SCC interior embraces five laboratory categories including: end-user computing, visual simulation, networking, server internetworking, and software web development. The new environment provides students with a dynamic collection of open work areas, study areas and gaming spaces to promote student engagement and collaboration.