Harvey Mudd College McGregor Center
The Scott A. McGregor Computer Science Center at Harvey Mudd College creates new space for the school's computer science program and a vibrant area for project-based learning.
Understanding what drives the need for change
Harvey Mudd College faced a problem that was stifling their rapidly growing Computer Science program: talent and resources scattered across campus like puzzle pieces that couldn't quite connect. Students trudged between multiple buildings for different aspects of their coursework, faculty worked in isolation, and the program's innovative spirit was trapped in basement-level spaces that barely saw daylight. For a college renowned for engineering excellence, this fragmentation was undermining their ability to foster the collaborative, interdisciplinary thinking that drives breakthrough innovation.
The college envisioned something transformative—a dedicated 36,000-square-foot academic building that would not only unite their Computer Science program under one roof but also create intentional connections with the makerspace community. They wanted spaces that would spark spontaneous collaboration between disciplines, support both focused individual work and dynamic group projects, and bring their academic programs into the light—literally and figuratively.
How we brought the vision to life
Tangram's design partnership with Harvey Mudd centered around creating what we call 'intentional intersections'—spaces where different types of learning and collaboration could flourish naturally. We organized the three-story building around a central courtyard that serves as both a visual anchor and a source of natural light, ensuring that previously buried academic programs could thrive in daylight-filled environments. The strategic co-location of Computer Science with the first-floor makerspace wasn't accidental—we designed clear sightlines and natural flow patterns that would encourage students to discover and connect across disciplines.
Our furniture strategy emphasized adaptability above all else. We selected height-adjustable workstations that could support both private focus work and collaborative sessions, paired them with modular lounge pieces in warm, welcoming materials, and incorporated flip-top classroom tables that transform spaces from lecture halls to active learning environments in minutes. The makerspace received beautiful butcher block tables paired with vibrant metal stools in rich reds and oranges, creating an energetic atmosphere that invites experimentation and community building.
17 solutions from 4 manufacturers
SW_1 Lounge
Redefine the concept of collaborative workspaces with the SW_1 office and lounge seating collection. A breathable mesh back provides increased comfort for long work sessions. A swiveling base and open arms expand the view, increasing the flow of collaboration in any space. Matching ottoman available.
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.
Think
The Think chair is an ergonomic office chair that senses what your body needs. The Integrated LiveBack™ System conforms to your body and moves with you as you change postures. It features an advanced weight-activated seat, so anybody can get comfortable, quickly.
Potrero415
Create inspiring settings — from open-plan casual to conference-room formal — with a wide variety of materials, shapes, and sizes. Potrero415 supports all the ways your people work: inside or outside a meeting room, sitting or standing, for long sessions or short bursts of creative energy. Designed for creative collaborators, Potrero415 is at the vanguard of a new standard of craft that looks better, feels better, and performs better.
Sistema Sofa
Seating with soul. With the comfort and character of bespoke furniture, yet all of the accessibility and efficiency of a pre-existing system, Sistema embodies the soul of the new work seating: a place where anything is possible; a style to fall in love with. Sculpted and deep. Clean-lined and welcoming. Mediterranean-inspired profiles and a finely engineered reclining posture bring the easy mood and residential-style comfort of softer seating to the workplace.
Planner Studio Table
Planner Studio Table is designed to meet the needs of today’s creative learning spaces. It meets the demanding needs of your Makerspace, without the pared down “shop-class” aesthetics. The adaptive urban industrial style allows for crossover application in media centers, active learning spaces, common areas or any space that encourages collaboration and social learning.
2 professionals brought this vision to life
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