SCSU Adanti Student Center

Southern Connecticut State University, a public university located on a 171-acre campus in New Haven, experienced significant enrollment growth that created the need for a centralized destination for student life. To strengthen campus community and bring together student services, amenities and activities, the University engaged JCJ to design the Adanti Student Center at a prominent campus crossroads.

Developed in close collaboration with University stakeholders, the 125,000-square-foot Adanti Student Center balances a timeless architectural character with contemporary approaches to student center design. As Southern’s primary campus hub, the building brings together student organization suites, event spaces, meeting rooms, a multicultural center, study and collaboration spaces, lounges, dining venues, bookstore, retail services and a 7,500-square-foot fitness center into a vibrant destination for campus life.

The four-story building combines brick and glass with a dramatic central stair that visually and physically connects all levels. Interior materials, including polished copper, local stone and wood, reflect the University’s identity while creating warm, welcoming spaces filled with natural light. Day and evening alike, the building serves as an active gathering place that fosters interaction, engagement and a strong sense of community.

Designed with durable materials, high-performance building systems and sustainable strategies throughout, the project exceeded the State of Connecticut’s High-Performance Building Guidelines, equivalent to LEED Silver certification.