The Florida International University (FIU) Student Academic Success Center project consisted of two precast and curtain wall buildings that are adjoined by an exterior plaza with seating and a covered walkway. The first building is a 65,125-square-foot, four-story building that includes an amphitheater. Throughout the four-story building there are faculty office space, student and faculty lounge areas, student advising and classroom space. This space serves as a “one-stop” student center by providing counseling, student financial services, faculty office space, career services, undergraduate honor programs and graduate studies. The building also features a central monument stairwell and a bridge below the amphitheater that connects the 737-seat auditorium space with the ground floor of the four-story building. The adjacent 15,445-square-foot two-story structure houses a multi-level auditorium and welcome center. It is a two-story structure featuring an auditorium balcony, stage and a welcome center atrium balcony.
The site work for the FIU Academic Success Center included features new courtyards and related landscaping improvements. The buildings also feature 53 light wells that provide a dramatic exterior touch and natural interior light. Each well is created by four asymmetrical precast panels. With a polished sandstone finish, they are unique in both material and shape.