This new, state-of-the-art information commons replaces Essex County College’s existing media center. Renovated to serve as the focal point of the college’s Newark Campus, this 18,000 s.f. space now cultivates a collaborative environment amongst students and staff members. The media center’s existing tall stacks and partition walls were removed to display a wide-open area, which is now outfitted with 140 computer stations, six classrooms, casual seating areas, breakout rooms, information kiosks, and new toilet rooms. A living wall, water feature wall, LED lighting, glass partition walls, and the latest in furniture design create a serene atmosphere within an urban campus.