For many, especially international students, college is the first home away from home, presenting challenges like leaving family and familiar comforts. When Whatcom Community College in Bellingham, WA, identified the need for on-campus housing, they sought not just buildings but a vibrant community. Our design for Cedar Hall embodies this vision. Acting as advisors as well as architects, we knew successful student housing requires a cohesive effort involving student programs and intentional design. A progressive design-build team was formed, gathering input through workshops and surveys to ensure our design met the community’s needs. The idea of cultivating community guided our approach. The floorplan encourages interaction with lounge areas between stairways and a strategic location near the campus transit station. The upper-level library offers stunning views of Mount Baker, while the Pod, a double-height social space, invites connection. We also prioritized privacy and study opportunities. Each unit features side-by-side bedrooms around a shared living room, maximizing space for future development. Above the entry, three levels of study areas illustrate the building’s focus on both community and academics. Our material choices reflect Whatcom County’s agricultural heritage. Glulam beams connect Cedar Hall’s exterior with its interior, and natural wood flooring enhances the aesthetic. Cedar Hall connects students to each other and to the vibrant city of Bellingham, creating a nurturing environment for growth and development.