The Aims Community College Greeley Campus has recently completed a transformative addition and renovation project, focusing on the development of a vibrant student commons area. This central hub integrates key campus amenities, including a student lounge, campus bistro, bookstore, learning commons, counseling services, TRiO student support services, and more, creating a cohesive and engaging environment.

A wayfinding program was implemented to enhance navigability and establish clear identification for each space. This system is seamlessly integrated into the building’s architecture, showcasing a unified design approach.

The project prominently celebrates the campus mascot, the Aardvarks, through a variety of creative elements. A striking large vinyl letter installation on the ceiling boldly declares ‘Proud to be an Aardvark,’ visible from the second floor to welcome prospective students. Custom hand-drawn patterns designed to resemble fabric patches are incorporated into wall graphics, adding texture and visual interest. In the student lounge, large lettering layered onto a silhouette of an aardvark with a ghosted appearance creates a bold visual statement. Additionally, subtle aardvark-themed graphics are hidden in each office suite, offering a nuanced connection to the mascot.

This design strategy is intended to foster a strong sense of belonging, school pride, and ownership among students, making the student commons a welcoming and spirited centerpiece of the Aims Greeley Campus.