The Student Center Building is a hive of activity this week, as workers wrap up phase one of the building’s extensive renovation. With the beginning of this semester, students will find work on the north end of the building — from the lower level through the third floor — completed. 

In addition to new carpet, colorful furniture and increased natural light, the Student Center will offer several dining options, including Taco Bell, Panda Express, Bené Pizza, Campus Grounds and Grille Works. Later in the month, one of the nation’s first full-service Starbucks will open, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

The second level will feature an expanded grand ballroom for holding large events, a 100-seat auditorium, several smaller meeting rooms and lounge spaces. 

The third floor will boast a newly designed student organization collaboration area, a reflection room, ablution stations, Student Senate office and the Campus Activities Team office.   

“I think students are going to be excited to see and use these new spaces. We think it has a ‘wow’ factor,” said Andrea Gerber, director of Student Center Services. “Our hope is that students will enjoy it and, as a result, spend more time hanging out on campus.”

Work has already begun on the south side of the Student Center, which will include an atrium from the lower level to the third floor overlooking Fountain Court, where the flagpoles are located. The south side will also include renovated recreation spaces, including areas for pool, pingpong and dance. It will also feature new meeting rooms and office space for Computing and Information Technology, the Dean of Students Office, The South End, and Student Center Administration. 

The entire project will be completed in August 2015.