Newark, New Jersey – With the continuing evolution of technology, many higher education institutions are finding it necessary to provide spaces that are appropriate for their students’ evolving needs. Essex County College is no different.

A state-of-the-art media center and student lounge open this month at Essex County College’s Main Campus in downtown Newark. Designed by RSC Architects, this renovated 18,800 s.f. “Information Commons” has 140 computer workstations, seven classrooms, breakout rooms, open lounges, and a computer lab—creating an atmosphere that encourages collaboration, creativity, and relaxation.

“We saw an opportunity here to create a space that provides more than a place to study; it provides inspiration and serenity at the same time,” says Dr. Joyce Wilson Harley, Vice President of Administration and Finance at Essex County College. “Having an open space with a forward-thinking design encourages our students to do their best work, while the incorporation of natural elements creates an interesting and engaging setting.”

RSC incorporated natural elements into their design, utilizing a living wall and a curved water wall to contrast the campus’ hectic urban location. The water wall utilizes synthetic oil between two pieces of glass to create the look of flowing water within the middle of the bustling media center. The living wall comprises a unique pattern of regenerative plants, including Wandering Jews and Neon and Golden Pothos. It will be maintained by an automated watering system and campus staff.

“Our design combines the concept of a media center with a student lounge,” says Kenneth Mihalik, Project Manager for RSC Architects. “We used wooden accents and plenty of natural light to create a peaceful, open area so that students can come here to relax, recharge, and refocus.”

“Classes can put students under a lot of pressure, and they need a place to de-stress. We brought in organic elements to create a sense of calm within an urban cityscape,” continues Mihalik.

This year-long, $4 million project transformed the decades-old library into an open space that includes meeting areas, breakout rooms, and information kiosks. The existing tall stacks and partition walls were removed in order to promote collaboration and cooperation between students, faculty, and staff. RSC brought in subdued blue carpeting with contemporary furniture that is cast against wood paneling and glass partitions to enhance the tranquil environment.

Opened in 1966, Essex County College has over 18,000 students that enroll in a variety of learning disciplines and activities, including fifty different majors and twenty-six academic certificate programs. The main campus is in the heart of University Heights within Newark, New Jersey, covering three city blocks and housing high-tech classrooms with advanced teaching modalities and state-of-the-art laboratories.

“It was great to partner with an innovative firm like RSC Architects on this new media center. The Information Commons is an integral part of our learning institution because it benefits the entire academic community,” says Jeff Shapiro, Essex County College Director of Facilities Management and Planning.

The new space replaces the former Martin Luther King, Jr. Media Center, and it is located on the fourth floor of the Zachary Yamba Building.