December 1, 2023

If you are a Roadrunner, then you likely already know the beauty of the Peter P. Mercer Learning Commons: Floor-to-ceiling windows, private study rooms, gorgeous terraces, state-of-the-art flexible classrooms, and the comfy bean bag chairs to sit in and avoid being mesmerized by the stunning mountain views or The Grove to focus on your work instead. There is also the oculus, which serves not only as a sharp and modern design element, but allows for abundant natural light to flood multiple floors in the building.

The American Institute of Architects NEPA finds the Learning Commons pretty spectacular as well, giving the Award of Excellence at the 2023 AIA NEPA Design Awards show to the architectural firm Bohlin Cywinski Jackson who worked with Ramapo College’s Office of Capital Planning to bring the vision to life. The building is a stunning example of how modern architecture can look sharp and function smoothly to meet the needs of the campus community.

“We are elated that BCJ was recognized for their design work related to the Peter P Mercer Learning Commons. BCJ was able to take our conceptual vision and create a building design that entirely transformed our library and this area of campus,” said Daniel Roche, director of the Office of Capital Planning, adding, “The Peter P. Mercer Learning Commons is a true highlight for the Ramapo College campus community and most importantly our students.”

Kostas Svarnas, construction project manager in the Office of Capital Planning, agrees, “With this distinction, we can know that we are at the forefront in having student spaces that foster interdisciplinary study, collaboration and creation. We are so proud of their work and also of the work from the overall project team.”

The Learning Commons is home to:

• George T. Potter Library
• Center for Reading and Writing
• Gross Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies
• Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center
• Jane Addams Papers Project
• American History Textbook Project
• Common Grounds, proudly serving Starbucks®

Earlier in 2023, the Learning Commons was recognized by the American Library Association in its American Libraries Magazine 2023 Library Design Showcase. The Learning Commons opened its doors in Fall 2021, following the ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy.

The Learning Commons project was also led by Dobco Inc., contractor; and Cambridge Construction Management.

Learn more about all that the Learning Commons offers the campus community and visit ramapo.edu/learning-commons.