Paradise Valley Community College Aquila Hall

STEM-focused learning in one cohesive environment.

Aquila Hall is a STEM-focused learning facility that brings together geology, astronomy, and chemistry in one cohesive environment designed for adaptability, collaboration, and inspiration.

The design process began with a charrette, where several architect teams explored different concepts to address the college’s diverse program needs. The final vision blended the strongest ideas and was tied together by the theme of faceted geometries. This idea, drawn from crystal structures, molecular forms, and constellations, became the thread that runs through the architecture, interiors, and details.

One of the biggest challenges was providing flexibility for a growing science program within only two laboratories. The solution centered on storage. Equipment and teaching materials are tucked away behind moveable whiteboards, making it easy for faculty to shift between disciplines and keep labs ready for the next class.

The program supports both focused study and collaboration. Aquila Hall includes life and physical science labs, a lab prep room with chemical storage, and flexible classrooms that accommodate a variety of teaching styles. A computer classroom and a multipurpose room expand learning opportunities, while a tutoring center, study rooms, and conference spaces provide support outside the labs. Faculty offices and a shared break room foster community among instructors. The facility also extends learning outdoors with an astronomy pad that connects students directly to the night sky.

The faceted design shows up inside and out. Metal canopies frame the entrances and continue into the lobby ceiling, where lights create constellation-like patterns. Warm finishes and open views connect the building to its desert setting, while the faceted theme carries into the furniture, flooring, and details throughout.