California Health Sciences University
Tangram Partners with Dekker/Perich/Sabatini & Darden Architects to Create an Inviting and Collaborative Environment at California Health Science University's New College of Osteopathic Medicine
Understanding what drives the need for change
When California Health Sciences University prepared to open the Central Valley's first osteopathic medical school, they faced a unique opportunity to shape the future of medical education in their region. As only the third osteopathic medicine program in California, CHSU needed to create an environment that would support their hands-on, patient-centered approach to medical training while also accommodating their Doctor of Pharmacy Program.
The 90,000 square foot facility represented years of planning and a two-year construction timeline that began in 2018. Beyond simply furnishing classrooms, CHSU needed spaces that would foster the collaborative spirit essential to osteopathic medicine, where students learn to treat patients holistically. The challenge was creating an environment that felt both professional and welcoming, supporting rigorous academic work while encouraging the kind of peer interaction and faculty mentorship that builds strong medical professionals.
How we brought the vision to life
Tangram Interiors joined forces with Dekker/Perich/Sabatini & Darden Architects to create a furniture strategy that would bring CHSU's educational vision to life. Understanding that medical students spend long hours in study and collaboration, our team focused on creating zones that could seamlessly transition between focused learning, group work, and social interaction.
We carefully curated furniture solutions from trusted manufacturers including Steelcase, Coalesse, National, and Global, selecting pieces that would support active learning methodologies while maintaining the warm, community-focused atmosphere CHSU desired. Each area was designed with flexibility in mind, allowing spaces to adapt throughout the day as students moved between lectures, study sessions, and collaborative projects. The result was a cohesive environment that feels more like a modern learning community than a traditional academic institution.
14 solutions from 3 manufacturers
Cobi
There’s no such thing as a quick meeting. We spend more time collaborating today than ever before. Squirming, fatigue, and loss of focus are unavoidable. Let’s face it. Working with others requires a completely different set of postures, and thus, a completely different kind of chair. One that helps keep you comfortable and focused in collaborative settings like conference and training rooms.
Reply
Choices for seating are abundant with Reply — a complete global family of task and guest chairs that are as nice to look at as they are to sit in. Comfort is no secret for Reply task chairs with mesh backs. Imported from Italy, the exclusive mesh is woven with chenille yarn offering soft, supportive comfort in an airy and light scale design. And if a classic look is what you prefer, the fully upholstered Reply chair offers dynamic support with a sleek and contoured look.
Player
The simple and durable Player chair is a convenient, comfortable, stackable chair for a multitude of uses. It’s the perfect solution for high traffic areas like waiting rooms, classrooms, cafes or multi-purpose spaces. A true “team player,” its slim, quiet aesthetic fits in just about anywhere.
Collette
Collette delivers residential inspired design and commercial durability. With the flexibility to accommodate today’s evolving spaces, Collette’s lush pillows and relaxed sit transport users between casual comfort and commercial style.
Lagunitas Lounge System
Adapt to changing workstyles and shifting work postures from the conventional to the casual. The Lagunitas product line creates a “third place” seating and table offering anywhere in your workspace while offering privacy, efficiency, and comfort. The 44 pieces within the collection can be endlessly reconfigured to meet the needs of your space.
Payback
Payback is the all-in-one solution that works hard in any professional setting. Furnish a meeting room, private office or entire workplace to fit your needs while maintaining consistency throughout. With thoughtful features and timeless design, Payback offers an unmatched return on investment.
3 professionals brought this vision to life
Ready to transform your space?
Let's discuss how we can create a workspace that reflects your culture and empowers your team.