Mesa Commons

San Diego, CA

As Project Architect at The Miller Hull Partnership, Kelley Ross worked in collaboration with SGPA Architecture and Planning and design-build partner Balfour Beatty to deliver this vibrant, multi-use facility at the heart of the San Diego Mesa College campus. The Commons serves as a central gateway and gathering space, supporting student life with an emphasis on flexibility, community, and sustainability.

The program includes a dynamic cafeteria with multiple food stations, a reimagined bookstore designed as a curated retail destination, and generous indoor seating areas that foster social connection. A working organic garden supports student programs and ties the project directly to the academic curriculum through hands-on learning.

Sustainability strategies were integral to the design, including radiant slab heating, a hybrid natural ventilation system, and a large underground cistern that captures both rainwater and condensate for reuse. These visible and integrated systems help reduce environmental impact while reinforcing the college’s sustainability goals within both operations and education.

The Commons reflects the San Diego Community College District’s commitment to creating high-performance, student-focused environments — blending architectural clarity with long-term resilience and educational value.

Role: Project Architect while at Miller Hull Partnership

Photo Credit: Darren Bradley Photography

Awards:

• Community College Facility Coalition 2017 Honor Award