The goals for The MarketPlace, originally designed in the 1990s and updated in 2004, were to increase the dining options, improve the traffic flow, brighten the area and open up a tight space to better facilitate communication through American Sign Language. “It was really dated, cramped and dark, and not inviting,” says Caitlin Daley, principal with BKP Architects.

The foodservice space was overhauled and expanded to include more stations and incorporate a pizza oven, expanded salad bar and global action station. Grab-and-go options have been moved to a central location, finishes were lightened and new, bolder signage was added. Lighting was also upgraded. “Eliminating chokeholds and better lighting are probably the two biggest improvements,” Daley says.

The student activities center is open from early morning until 2 a.m. and serves as a gathering spot. The new multisensory design provides high contrasts between the floors and walls and floors with contrasting colors and textures to aid visually and hearing-impaired guests navigate the space. A new four-inch stage in the Rathskellar was built with a heavy rubber tread around the edges to indicate a transition. BKP built a mockup for students to help determine the best solution.

Avoiding visual noise is important for people who sign; anything cluttered or busy is a distraction when one’s attention is focused on the hands. Clear sight lines and solid colors minimize the noise. Wall-mounted mirrors help connect those seated facing the wall with the rest of the room. Throughout the spaces, the renovation also folded in a number of sustainable elements, from LED lighting to eucalyptus millwork, recycled products and minimal use of products with harsh chemicals.

Before the renovation, this windowless space was Christian-centric. Today, it provides a welcome environment for all faiths and denominations. “It’s a more biophilic design, a nature scene, that includes carpeting with green hues and a false skylight. It’s a meditative space that welcomes people of all religions,” Daley explains. The custom-designed benches accommodate different configurations and religious services; they also store accessories for those services.

Working with design firm JSA/MIXdesign, BKP modernized restrooms to include 11 fully enclosed private stalls and a shared sink area. Two stalls are ADA accessible: one is an ADA family care stall, the other designed to meet ambulatory standards.