Kutztown University’s Academic Forum is a signature multi‑use facility that brings together academic instruction, student life and campus dining under one roof. STV provided architectural design, structural engineering, interior design and construction management services for the renovation of the two‑story, 62,000‑square‑foot building located on the university’s North Campus. The resulting space balances the needs of a modern learning environment with a highly popular food court, creating a dynamic hub for academic and social activity.
What challenges did STV address?
Kutztown required a renovation that could successfully merge academic and dining functions within a single facility, each with distinct spatial, technological and circulation demands. The team needed to design classrooms equipped with sophisticated audiovisual systems while also planning a vibrant, high‑capacity dining area – maintaining clear separation between uses without compromising flow, comfort or the aesthetic coherence of the building.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV created an interactive, collaborative design featuring seven classrooms ranging from 85 to 200 seats, each wired with state‑of‑the‑art audiovisual technology at every student station. The team also designed a 300‑seat food court within a 6,000‑square‑foot commons area, incorporating varied seating zones and social nooks. Through careful engineering and layout planning, STV ensured that the academic and dining spaces complemented each other while remaining functionally distinct. The construction management team delivered the project ahead of schedule and under budget.
How does this project benefit the community?
The Academic Forum enhances academic performance through modern classrooms and supports student life with an inviting, centralized dining destination. Its hybrid design fosters collaboration, convenience and community – strengthening daily campus life and improving the student experience.
Key stats and accolades
- 62,000‑sf academic and dining facility
- 7 technologically advanced classrooms
- 300‑seat food court in a 6,000‑sf commons
- Delivered ahead of schedule and under budget
