The world’s largest fully accredited university specializing in aviation and aerospace, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, set out to build a community hub for students, staff, and faculty with a new Student Union.  Located at the entrance of the campus, the remarkable structure, inspired by the gracefulness of a soaring bird in flight, has become the centerpiece of the campus. The 177,000 square foot, four-story student union building embodies the University’s mission to teach the science, practice, and business of aviation and aerospace and epitomizes the student values of fearlessness, adventure, and discovery.

The goal of the new modern space was to create a collaborative environment that promotes new ways of learning and encourages innovation. Upon entry, visitors are greeted with a bright open space, illuminated with Seem 4 recessed luminaires and ID+ 4.5" downlights, delivering optimal illumination levels to the first-floor multipurpose seating areas, bookstore, and student services offices. The second floor houses the Student Government Association where the clean, unobtrusive aesthetic of Seem 4-LP illuminates the computer lab and lounge area with seamless lines of light that enhance the blue and white color palette, reflective of the school’s colors. Additional Seem 4 recessed luminaires and ID+ 4.5" downlights were incorporated to provide unity, as well as address illumination needs in the state-of-the-art library that stretches across the third and fourth floors. This modern student union was awarded the Design Award of Excellence by the Society of American Registered Architects (SARA).