Cerritos College Falcon Square

LOCATION:

Norwalk, CA

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

Falcon Square at Cerritos College transforms a once underutilized campus ceenter into a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable public realm that serves as the heart of student life. Envisioned as a multifunctional plaza, the design incorporates flexible event spaces, clearly defined pedestrian pathways, integrated stormwater strategies, and much-needed shaded seating areas to foster both large-scale gatherings and day-to-day social interactions.

Navigating community engagement was a key part of the design process. Over five rounds of stakeholder presentations, four conceptual schemes were distilled into a single final vision that reflected the needs and aspirations of students, faculty, and staff. This thoughtful and collaborative approach ensured a space grounded in user input and long-term adaptability.

Despite a modest design budget, the team maximized value through creative problem-solving and strategic design. Limited options for large canopy trees prompted inventive shade solutions, including architecturally integrated structures and layered planting palettes. Conceptual sketches, 3D modeling, and iterative site plans allowed the team to test ideas and refine the design within tight parameters.

Falcon Square is a testament to thoughtful campus design—balancing vision, constraints, and collaboration to create a space that supports community, wellness, and connection at the core of Cerritos College.