University of Rochester Wilson Commons

Wilson Commons is central to the University of Rochester’s River Campus and serves as the student life center. The building, designed by I.M. Pei and Constructed in 1976, has architectural significance to the college community and is widely recognized and embraced. The main scope of the project consisted of a renovation and expansion to the first floor (basement level) existing food service and dining areas. The existing food prep and cafeteria style serving lines, including interior finishes, were worn, outdated and undersized for the growing student population. Students, with their diverse cultural backgrounds, expect a variety of food choices along with a dining area that offers a pleasing environment, complete with the comforts of home. The University has contracted with outside vendors to bring in established specialty restaurants to create the open food court style atmosphere. These restaurants will bring their unique familiar brand to the space and offer a variety of cuisine. The adjoining dining area is located in an impressive six-story atrium, open overhead to stairways and balconies. Due to the visibility of the space this feature is one that offers the opportunity to provide a welcoming sense to the dining experience.