Northeastern University Curry Student Center

Client

Northeastern University

Program

Renovation and expansion of a 26,900 SF 517-seat student and dining center into a 710-seat space with a new 3,000 SF mezzanine addition.

Press

Press Release, November 2012

Challenge

Design a modern and Northeastern-centric space with a “hip” and urban aesthetic to become the social dining hub of campus. Revitalize student center dining hall to accommodate more students and serve as showcase for students, faculty, and visitors.

Solution

The renovation of Curry Dining adds a new servery and 3,000 SF suspended glass and steel mezzanine that provides additional seating and a new connection to the upper level. The fresh dining options and a variety of gathering places create a shared “home“ for students, using university-themed design elements to celebrate school spirit.

Results

Curry has become the new hot spot to meet – where great food meets great design. Newly reconfigured space allows the university to artfully display its brand identity and showcase fresh new food offerings – both of which raise the bar for NU’s student and faculty experience. Dining revenue is up 20% since the re-opening, proving that good design is good business for Northeastern’s dining program.

Awards

2013 Best Renovation – Best Concepts Award
Food Management Magazine

2013 Outstanding Design – Cafeterias/Food-Service, Educational Interiors Showcase
American School & University

2013 Edwin F. Guth Memorial Award for Interior Lighting
Illuminating Engineering Society

Publications

Food Management
February 2013
“Northeastern Opens 30K Redesigned Space”

College Planning & Management
February 2013
Cover and Facility Focus

American School & University
February 2013
A Commons Experience at Northeastern University, Boston

Boston Business Journal
June 2012
Northeastern University Renovates Student Center