The Pavilion at Middlesex Community College Wins the People’s Choice Award for the “Place Where I’d Most Like to Study”

The Pavilion at Middlesex Community College in Middletown recently received the People’s Choice Award from the Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for the “Place Where I’d Most Like to Study.” Amenta Emma Architects of Hartford was the architectural firm recognized for their design work on both the Pavilion and Center for New Media at the college.

The project began in 2013 as a “cafeteria addition and renovation to Founders Hall.” In 2014, with a new porch addition, the name was changed to the Founders Pavilion, which is a primary dining space on campus and a major multi-purpose assembly area in Founders Hall.

The Pavilion project expanded the footprint of Founders Hall with a 2,200 square-foot addition to the north side of the building. In addition, 800 square-feet of existing dining space was renovated and reconfigured. The space features an expansive roof overhang and glass doors that lead to a 1,500 square-foot exterior wood deck.

The room is furnished with soft seating and functional tables to promote comfort and the integration of enhanced technology. For the past several years, the College’s graduating classes and student senate members have donated a portion of their student activity funds to integrate a propane fireplace in the room, creating an inviting place to study, socialize, and be a part of the college community. They have also purchased Baldwin lawn chairs and tables in order to furnish the Pavilion’s outside deck.