Student Services Center

Oakland Community College’s Auburn Hills campus sought to create a dynamic Student Services Center that would attract, engage, and retain students by providing a welcoming space for them to connect between classes. With over 6,000 commuters daily, the campus lacked a central hub where students could socialize, study, and build a sense of community.

Having collaborated with OCC for over 20 years, IDS was entrusted with designing an energetic, multifunctional space that would house a dining hall, tutoring services, student organization and meeting rooms, study areas, and social lounges. The result is a vibrant new Student Center that seamlessly links four existing campus buildings, the library, bookstore, and two classroom halls, into one cohesive and inviting environment.

Upon entering the two-story space, students are immediately immersed in an atmosphere of energy and warmth. A bold central entryway leads to a soaring social space filled with dynamic patterns, vibrant colors, and engaging architectural elements. A spiral staircase and conical-shaped elevator tower reinforce the Center’s sense of vitality and connectedness, while metal trellises define more intimate seating areas. Perforated wood walls glow with multicolor LED lighting, adding a sense of movement and excitement. The dining area, designed with a bistro-style ambiance, offers a welcoming and comfortable space for students to relax, dine, and engage with their peers.

More than just a building, the new Student Center serves as the heart of the campus, encouraging students to stay, connect, and thrive in a space designed just for them.