NKU envisioned the Student Union as a “hub” for the entire campus, creating a crossroads for student, faculty, and staff activities. Owner terms such as “beacon” and ‘”landmark” implied a desire to raise the standard and set a new direction for architectural excellence on campus. In response, the design idea used circulation as a major programmatic element. A tiered three-story atrium ties each floor together, giving occupants an opportunity to engage the building’s many activities in a variety of ways, from direct participation to observation from the balcony and lounge spaces arranged throughout the atrium. The north facing and fritted clear low-e insulated glazing design promotes natural day lighting strategies while reducing heat-gain. The atrium runs along the entire north face of the new building parallel to the main pedestrian path and terminates at a main building entrance. A butt-glazed and zinc tower serves as the beacon, with an LED lighting system that can be programmed to feature colors associated with holidays and academic events.