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Bloomberg Student Center Earns ENR East Award of Merit

The Bloomberg Student Center at Johns Hopkins University has received an Award of Merit in the Higher Education/Research category as part of the 2026 ENR East Projects Awards. Presented by Engineering News-Record (ENR), the annual program recognizes projects that demonstrate excellence in design, construction, innovation, and community impact. The awards honor outstanding design and construction achievements across the United States. Projects are evaluated on their ability to overcome challenges, advance innovation, enhance user experience, and deliver meaningful benefits to their communities.

Bloomberg Student Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD. Photo by Laurian Ghinitoiu.

Designed as the first dedicated student center in Johns Hopkins University’s history, the Bloomberg Student Center creates a vibrant hub for connection, creativity, and campus life. The 150,000-sq ft facility brings together spaces for gathering, learning, performance, dining, and student engagement under one roof. The building supports more than 200 student organizations and serves as a welcoming destination for the entire university community.

Bloomberg Student Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD. Photo by Laurian Ghinitoiu.

Set within a dramatic sloping site, the center is defined by a series of interconnected mass timber volumes that rise and fall with the campus topography. A transparent glass façade and expansive clerestory windows fill the interior with natural light while strengthening the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The exposed timber structure creates a warm, biophilic environment that encourages collaboration and offers students a place to recharge, socialize, and build community.

Sustainability was central to the project’s vision. The building’s innovative roofscape incorporates photovoltaic arrays that generate approximately 40 percent of its annual energy needs, while extensive daylighting and carefully designed overhangs help reduce energy consumption. The project was also awarded LEED Platinum certification, reflecting Johns Hopkins’ commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term campus resilience.

Emily Hooper

Emily Hooper

Senior Brand + Communications Manager

Emily leads brand and communications strategies across six physical and virtual studios.

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