The Latitude Dining Commons at UC Davis is a new 500-seat facility with a design inspired by the Central Valley. The space represents the food and farming culture of both the university and the surrounding region.
The building is sited between Tercero residential buildings to the south and future science buildings across Bioletti Way. The design features an exposed structure of glulam beams and cross laminated wood decking, pitched roofs, and simple, functional materials. A light metal clad folded roof, which draws inspiration from a barn roof, floats above large glass walls and extends out to shade entrances and terraces.
Multiple pathways link the sidewalk with the dining and retail entrances and a continuous band of active public terraces shares views with pedestrians and cyclists along Bioletti Way. Tables and chairs, benches, and steps encourage students to gather, eat, or study.
The project includes a full commercial kitchen, provides multiple international food platforms, and has retail grab-n-go and convenience options. A two-level area features front of house public functions (such as dining, servery, queuing, and retail) while a one-level mass includes all back of house functions. Painted steel stairs between the first and second levels stand free in the space that adds to the “see and be seen” dynamic. Also included are loading docks for deliveries, outdoor seating opportunities, circulation, site improvements, and bicycle parking.
HED was the project architect with Otto Construction as the general contractor. The project is targeting LEED Gold certification.
Related Stories
University Buildings | May 22, 2018
NC State University’s transparent engineering building has ‘engineering on display’ around every corner
Clark Nexsen designed the new building.
University Buildings | May 15, 2018
South Dakota State University to receive new apartment and townhouse neighborhood
The units will house juniors, seniors, and graduate students.
Sports and Recreational Facilities | May 15, 2018
Is this the most environmentally sustainable arena in the country?
The university arena was designed by Architectural Resources Cambridge.
Sponsored | University Buildings | May 7, 2018
Metal composite materials engineer sound and inspire bold designs
University Buildings | May 3, 2018
Williams College bookstore is a LEED Platinum space for more than just books
CambridgeSeven designed the campus bookstore.
Art Galleries | Apr 23, 2018
VCU’s Institute for Contemporary Art officially opens
Steven Holl Architects designed the building.
University Buildings | Apr 19, 2018
University of Minnesota’s Pioneer Hall to receive $104.5 million renovation/addition
The original building was no longer functional for modern day purposes.
Sports and Recreational Facilities | Apr 19, 2018
Northwestern’s new multi-sport training facility offers expansive views of Lake Michigan
Perkins+Will designed the facility.
University Buildings | Apr 18, 2018
University of Hawaii’s new Administration & Allied Health Building nears completion
Perkins+Will’s LA Studio designed the building.
Energy-Efficient Design | Mar 20, 2018
University of Hawaii Maui College on pace to become first U.S. campus to generate 100% renewable energy on-site
The project is part of a partnership with Johnson Controls and Pacific Current that will also allow four UH community college campuses on Oahu to significantly reduce their fossil fuel consumption.