RPI Buildings Troy , NY

Phinney Design Group was selected to provide Architectural and Interior Design services by Culinart and Mazzone Hospitality to propose new design concepts at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s existing food service establishments. The overall design intent was to update the dining experience for the students and staff at RPI while incorporating modern dine and pay technology. Over five locations were studied and designed to adapt to the ever-changing diverse menus and offer a memorable dining experience for students and visitors to the Campus. Within each design, the spaces were transformed to create an atmosphere that students and staff can work individually or collaborate with others. Spaces were conceived to be flexible and multi-functional knowing they are often used as study halls, collaboration areas, public gatherings and presentations. A focus on healthy options and nutritional
awareness was also carefully considered in the proposed upgrades; interventions went as far as providing space for teaching kitchens. Technology was embraced within the design by adding quick swipe pay kiosks, digital menu boards, upgraded AV and IT components as well as data and power integrated furniture. The resulting designs proposed a range of spaces from casual market feel to a formal, higher end dining experience providing the ability to serve a variety of needs amongst students, staff, and alumni.