Alamo Colleges Northwest Vista College – Cedar Elm STEM Center San Antonio, Texas | 52,550 SF

As an innovative, project-based learning hub, the new 52,550 SF Cedar Elm STEM Center encourages curiosity, creativity, and collaboration among students in fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. The inspiring and inclusive design invites learners from different backgrounds, fields of study, and academic disciplines into the space and promotes a shared identity for all students, faculty and staff who are part of the Northwest Vista College and the Alamo Colleges District community.

“Northwest Vista College is proud to offer nationally-renowned science, technology, engineering, and math programs (STEM). Our new STEM Building will spark even more innovation and technology-based education, helping strengthen our existing local and regional partnerships while preparing students and graduates for careers of the future.”
Dr. Ric Baser, President – Northwest Vista College

The STEM Center offers a beautiful juxtaposition between cutting-edge, future-forward design and the natural setting in which it is nestled, with abundant mature trees, all of which will be preserved and incorporated into the landscape. A variety of protected outdoor spaces will leverage the existing tree canopy and provide ample spaces for immersion in nature. Site amenities such as places for outdoor learning, and a dedicated food truck station, are integrated features of the project design.

The interior of the facility is comprised of a wide range of innovative learning environments including flexible, general-purpose classrooms; chemistry, engineering, math, physics, genetics, and tutoring labs; instructor offices, and student and faculty common areas. The two-story elevated lobby and common space, wrapped in dramatic lake and tree canopy views, is the social hub for celebrating STEM on campus.

This state-of-the-art learning center is comprised of two-wings and three-levels, with an open-air “porch” at the first level, while the second and third levels adjoin at the intersection of these wings. Labs, classrooms, and service spaces are located within a highly flexible and reconfigurable learning wing. Imaginative community spaces, nestled between the learning wings, and at the heart of the facility, provide the connectivity where collaboration and interaction occurs.

The new STEM building serves as a model for accessible, hands-on learning that empowers and connects Alamo College’s diverse communities for success. The facility creates and innovative, project-based, student-focused learning hub that inspires curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.