Center for Global Scholars Student Housing

Korsmo Construction worked collaboratively with Pierce College and James Guerrero Architects to remodel an existing nursing facility to develop the Center for Global Scholars, which provides housing for international students at Pierce College’s Fort Steilacoom Campus.

The 16,051 square foot building, which was originally constructed in 1956, had been dormant for several years and needed significant interior and exterior improvements in order to meet the college’s needs. Major scopes of work included selective demolition, HVAC and MEP upgrades, interior/exterior finish upgrades, and extensive landscaping. Our team developed several unique ideas to utilize cost savings, including an outdoor patio landscape design featuring community planter boxes, picnic areas and space for barbecues.

The single story facility will house a minimum of 60 students in a combination of one, two and three person units. Furnishings include built-in casework, desks and closets. Group study areas are located throughout the dormitory’s hallways, several of which include collaborative chalkboard walls.

A student lounge opens to the main hallway and includes lounge chairs, bistro tables and a TV. A large outdoor courtyard provides another community gathering place for students. Students also have access to a full kitchen and 20-seat dining area.

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