The College of Marin is building an innovative student hub in the heart of the Kentfield campus to serve a wide range of diverse students. The new Center for Student Success (CSS) grows and upgrades the previous library, consolidates supportive student services, provides more flexible classroom space, and offers tailored dining experiences. The goal of the project was to “serve the whole student,” welcoming young and old alike into the college experience and helping them to chart their own unique pathways to educational success.

The new CSS encompasses 85,000 square feet over three floors. The design will be environmentally responsive and responsible, shaped to take advantage of the campus’ unique landscapes, including spectacular views of Mount Tamalpais.

The building and complementary landscapes also find opportunities in the native redwood grove, Corte Madera Creek.

The project was born through several rounds of interactive engagement including focus groups, faculty interviews, and community town hall meetings focused on the building program, design values, and the emerging design. Project delivery was via the lease-leaseback method. Group 4 is the Architect of Record and HMC Architects is the Co-Design Architect.