Understanding what drives the need for change
Saddleback College set out to create a future-focused learning environment at the Advanced Technology and Education Park (ATEP) in Tustin, CA—one that would prepare students for careers in two rapidly evolving industries: Advanced Automotive Technology and Culinary Arts. Spanning 50,000 square feet across two purpose-built facilities, the campus needed to reflect real-world professional environments while supporting hands-on, technology-driven education.
The challenge was multifaceted. Each space had to mirror the standards of modern workplaces—from high-end automotive showrooms and advanced service bays to fully operational commercial kitchens and a student-run restaurant. At the same time, the campus needed to support up to 1,800 students, accommodate diverse learning styles, and integrate seamlessly with state-of-the-art equipment and industry partnerships with brands like Toyota, Ford, Marriott, and Disneyland.
Furniture played a critical role in bridging education and application—supporting both instructional and collaborative environments while aligning with the architectural vision by Gensler and the project’s broader goals of sustainability, flexibility, and workforce readiness.
How we brought the vision to life
Tangram partnered with Gensler and Saddleback College to deliver a comprehensive furniture solution that enhanced both functionality and the real-world learning experience. Our approach focused on supporting hands-on education while creating environments that reflect the industries students are preparing to enter.
We furnished a wide range of learning and support spaces across both buildings, ensuring each environment aligned with its specific use case. In the Advanced Automotive facility, furniture solutions complemented the dealership-inspired design—supporting classrooms, conference areas, and collaborative learning zones adjacent to cutting-edge labs and service bays.
Within the Culinary Arts building, we provided furnishings for teaching spaces, café areas, and the student-run restaurant—helping to create a seamless transition between classroom instruction and live hospitality experiences. Social and informal spaces, including the coffee bar and outdoor areas, were designed to foster connection and reflect modern hospitality environments.
Throughout the project, our team focused on durability, flexibility, and integration—ensuring furniture solutions could support high-use educational settings while complementing the campus’s contemporary architecture and LEED Gold-equivalent sustainability goals.
1 professionals brought this vision to life
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