David Sparks
Secchia Shb

From the 2023 Educational Interiors Showcase: Secchia Piazza and Heritage Restaurant

Nov. 6, 2023
The Grand Rapids Community College facility was recognized as an outstanding design in the Common Areas category

The Secchia Piazza at Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, transforms an existing outdoor roof terrace into an indoor, multiuse event space. The new room is part of the Secchia Culinary Institute and an extension of its teaching restaurant. The Piazza is a place for students and the community to gather in celebration. Its principal feature is a conical, colored-glass skylight whose colors and kaleidoscopic patterns are inspired by the warmth of the Mediterranean and the abundance of the harvest. At night, programmable LED lighting further highlights its dramatic interior. Full-height glass walls on two sides of the room engage views of the city.

Read more about the Secchia Piazza and Heritage Restaurant and view a photo gallery at SchoolDesigns.com.

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