The LaRose Student Commons is the center of student life in Elon’s Historic Neighborhood. In collaboration with Robert A. M. Stern Architects, the 10,000 SF facility provides spaces for student gatherings, study, and events. The interior and exterior designs are consistent with Elon University’s traditional architectural style. The building program includes a large two-story student lounge, a student gaming room, a demonstration kitchen, offices for student life staff, and a 3,000 SF ballroom on the second floor for speakers, banquets, and residence life programs. “Students on the rocking chairs, studying at the oak tables that were built from the felled trees on this spot, making meals in the kitchen, or playing table tennis,” said President Connie Ledoux Book. “This is what this space was designed for—community engagement.”