California State University, Los Angeles / Student Services Building

APPROACH
The California State University Los Angeles Administrative and Student Services Building is a 218,000 SF mid-century building repurposed as a centralized hub for student services and administration. The project required a wayfinding and environmental graphics system that could ease the stress of navigating an unfamiliar environment while supporting a wide range of academic and administrative functions.

A strategy to develop a clear, accessible, and engaging wayfinding system guided the design approach. The system combines bold wayfinding with environmental graphics that celebrate the University’s identity and its connection to the City of Los Angeles. Key elements include a large-scale mosaic inspired by the Los Angeles skyline, vibrant color applications drawn from campus spirit, and intuitive signage that guides students from initial triage to their destinations. Graphics integrated within communicating stairs reference local hiking culture—incorporating step counts and distances to regional landmarks—to encourage movement while reinforcing orientation throughout the building.

OUTCOME
The result is a clear and welcoming environment that supports intuitive navigation and reduces the stress of accessing student services. The graphics system enhances orientation across a complex program while reinforcing the University’s identity and its connection to Los Angeles. Aligned with the college’s positioning as a campus at the center of the city, layered references to local landmarks—particularly within the stair graphics—help students understand their broader urban context. These moments introduce a sense of discovery and fun, encouraging stair use while creating a more engaging and connected experience for students, staff, and visitors.


Work completed under ZGF Architects LLP