California State University, Northridge Debuts Oasis Wellness Center Designed by LPA Inc.
Northridge, CA (PRWEB) September 18, 2015 -- Designed by one of the largest integrated design firms in California, LPA Inc., students of California State University, Northridge (CSUN) have been able to experience the new Oasis Wellness Center since late August. This week, faculty and community members gathered to celebrate the official grand opening of the center created to enhance student well-being.
According to the American College Health Association’s National College Health Assessment survey results from CSUN in 2011, the top two health impediments negatively impacting students’ academic performance were stress and lack of sleep. Stress impacted 31 percent of CSUN students as compared to 28 percent nationally; while sleep deprivation affected 21 percent as compared to 19 percent nationally. LPA was commissioned to design a center that serves as a destination where students can find serenity and relaxation amid the vigorous campus lifestyle.
The design approach was to simply bridge the relationship between mind and body. While the Student Recreation Center—also designed by LPA—delivered fitness and student life experiences on a bold and large scale, the Wellness Center seeks to complement it from an intimate and contemplative perspective.
"The University Student Union was excited to work with LPA again on another project. We had such a great experience and partnership, working on the Student Recreation Center that we knew we could be successful in setting the bar high,” said Jimmy Francis, Director at CSUN’s University Student Union. “What resulted was a functional, well-designed space that is set up for success in helping students overcome barriers to graduation."
The diverse programs and amenities offered within the 6,000 square feet of indoor space include nutrition and wellness counseling rooms, relaxation room with six power napping pods, resource center, open lounge, peer counseling rooms, massage therapy, gender inclusive restrooms, meeting rooms and administrative support areas. The outdoor space is 10,000 square feet and includes a fireplace and seating area, a labyrinth, small group tranquil lounge areas and a variety of mindfulness spaces for contemplation such as a Zen garden and reflection patio.
Winston Bao, Associate at LPA, stated, “The project is a true symbol of the university's commitment to the quality of student life, health and wellness. The amenities and services, both inside and outside, will have a long-lasting impact for many generations of students at CSUN.”
About LPA Inc.
Founded in 1965, LPA has more than 290 employees with offices in San Antonio and Irvine, Sacramento, San Diego and San Jose, California. The firm provides services in architecture, sustainability, planning, interior design, landscape architecture, engineering and graphics. There is no “Sustainability Director,” at LPA. Instead, nearly 70 percent of the professionals are LEED accredited, including the Human Resources Director, CFO, and several other support staff. With extensive experience in public and private architecture, LPA designs a diversity of facilities that span from K-12 schools, colleges and universities to corporate and civic establishments. More than 600 major design awards attest to LPA’s commitment to design excellence. For more information, visit http://www.lpainc.com.
Courtney Tarnow, LPA Inc., http://LPAinc.com, +1 (949) 701-4146, [email protected]
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