Enhancing Student Wellbeing Through Thoughtful Campus Design
In the post-pandemic world, the importance of student wellbeing has never been more pronounced. With the partnership of Caryn Brause, FAIA, professor of architecture, UMass Amherst, a multi-year research initiative with Honors Thesis Students explored the impacts of design on students’ perception of their wellbeing.
The backdrop for this work is the Okanagan Charter, which calls for institutions to embed health into all aspects of campus culture. UMass Amherst signed the Charter in Fall 2022, and this project is part of the university’s commitment to this charge. The research focused on understanding how the renovated Student Union meets the needs of a dynamic student body and contributes to their wellbeing.
University of Massachusetts, Amherst Student Union Renovation in Amherst, MA. Photo by Raj Das.
The Renovation Project
When the project was awarded, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mandated that it be a renovation without any additions to the building footprint. The original Student Union, built in the 1950s, was too small for the current campus population of over 30,000 students. The goal was to reconnect the evolving campus and accommodate the needs of a changing student body.
The renovation aimed to improve common and shared meeting areas, as well as study, event, and social spaces. One of the significant changes was the transformation of the ballroom, which was rebuilt at the same size but raised up a level. This allowed for a more open and connected building layout.
University of Massachusetts, Amherst Student Union Renovation in Amherst, MA. Photo by Raj Das.
Research Findings
The research involved several methods, including observations, behavior maps, and participant surveys. The findings revealed that the Student Union is heavily used by students, particularly for studying, collaborative work, eating, and meeting up with friends. The space was found to be welcoming and inclusive, contributing positively to students’ sense of belonging and wellbeing.
Students appreciated the variety of spaces available, which allowed for both social interaction and individual work. However, there were some recommendations for improvement, such as better organization and furnishing of seating areas, as well as adjustments to building hours to serve a more diverse set of students.
University of Massachusetts, Amherst Student Union Renovation in Amherst, MA. Photo by Raj Das.
Implications for Future Projects
The study’s findings align with the design goals and highlight the importance of creating flexible and inclusive spaces that meet the needs of all students. The data collected has already begun to inform the way we think about student-focused renovations and helps us design environments that promote measurable student wellbeing and academic success.
As designers, the goal is to make a positive impact on student wellbeing and create spaces that foster meaningful social connections. By systematically collecting data and continuously improving campus environments, institutions can move closer to achieving their wellness goals.
Learn more about UMass Amherst’s Student Union Renovation.
Derek Noble, AIA, NOMA
Principal, Architect
Derek is a Principal working on higher education and healthcare projects, based out of our Hartford studio.
