The City University of New York: Multicultural Center and Residential Living
by Isabella Villalpando & Janeese Rojas
by Isabella Villalpando & Janeese Rojas
Instructor: Vladimir Kulić, Ph.D
Studio: Arch 302, Spring 2021
Location: Broadway & W 136th St, New York, NY - West Harlem
The City University of New York professes to be an institution that embraces diversity, inclusivity, equality, and respect. It avows to cherish diversity, acknowledging its immense value stemming from a multiplicity of perspectives, experiences, and ideas, encompassing gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, education, abilities, and citizenship status. However, regrettably, the University fails to extend this philosophy to non-U.S. citizen or non-permanent resident students. Particularly, their student support services program excludes anyone who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident from accessing grants, scholarships, advising, counseling, cultural diversity programs, and peer mentoring opportunities.
In response to this gap, this project endeavors to create a sanctuary where multicultural students can genuinely feel embraced, irrespective of their circumstances or backgrounds. It provides a plethora of resources spread across six floors, such as an art center, counseling, advising, peer mentoring, tutoring, workshops, gym, lounges, and living residences, that cater to their diverse needs and requirements.
The project also seeks to engage with the rest of the West Harlem community to foster connection. This is done through a larger double story art center where concerts, shows, lectures, and events can be held. Through inclusive design communities can be truly brought together.
Site:
Diagrams, Maps, & Statistics
Diagrams, Maps, & Statistics
Location: Broadway & W 136th St, New York, NY - West Harlem
The CUNY Multicultural Center and Residential Living is located within a five-minute walk from the heart of campus. Nearby, there are various amenities such as shops, bus stops, bike share stations, the subway line, and the metro subway station. This area witnesses substantial foot traffic and street activity, creating an inviting atmosphere for both members of the community and CUNY students. The multicultural center serves as a social hub, fostering a sense of community for all.
