Binghamton University Appalachian Collegiate Center

Binghamton, NY

Appalachian Collegiate Center at Binghamton University creates a gateway from the academic campus to a new hilltop residential college. Taking advantage of the hillside topography, the dining hall floats above its prominent site — forming a welcoming portal at the head of a monumental stair. Expansive views of the campus and valley below, and of the mountains behind are had from the dining hall, which also shelters gathering environments beneath it, including an outdoor foyer, a café, an amphitheater, and a rock garden. These exterior spaces are protected by the dining hall, receiving optimum shade in summer and maximum sunlight throughout the winter. Both indoor and outdoor, the design of the Appalachian Collegiate Center fosters greater social interaction among students. The new collegiate facility dining hall accommodates 500 students.

AIA New York awarded the project with the AIA New York Award of Merit.