Expanding Access, Learning, and Student Support in North San Diego County
The Fallbrook Student Resource and Learning Center is a new 40,000‑square‑foot, two‑story facility at Palomar College’s Fallbrook Education Center that will open in early 2027. The building expands instructional space, student services, and community‑focused areas that support student success across the region.
Through this project, Palomar College strengthens access to higher education while creating an environment that supports students academically, personally, and professionally. In addition, the building reflects the College’s commitment to equity, engagement, and long‑term community partnership.
The facility was designed by HMC Architects and is being constructed by Balfour Beatty.
A Hub for Learning, Support, and Community
The Fallbrook Student Resource and Learning Center brings classrooms, student services, wellness resources, and student life together in one location. As a result, students can navigate the campus more easily and access support in a clear and welcoming setting.
The new facility was designed through collaboration with Palomar College departments, local high schools, tribal partners, students, and the Fallbrook Education Center Community Advisory Council to ensure it meets the needs of the community it serves.
At the same time, the project more than doubles the center’s permanent facilities while maintaining strong connections to the surrounding landscape and community.
Academic and Instructional Spaces
The building provides modern, flexible spaces that support diverse learning styles and academic pathways.
These spaces include:
- A multi‑discipline science laboratory serving Physics and Geology
- A large lecture hall
- Four standard classrooms
- A computer lab
- A full‑service library with views of Monserate Mountain
- Five study rooms, including large group study spaces
Together, these spaces support many learning styles. They also encourage collaboration and academic success.
Student Services, Wellness, and Basic Needs
The Fallbrook Student Resource and Learning Center also strengthens access to essential student services. By centralizing support functions, the building reduces barriers and improves the student experience.
Available services will include:
- A comprehensive Student Services Department
- An on‑site Health Center, including behavioral health counseling
- A Food and Nutrition Center
- A Bookstore
In addition, the facility includes Palomar College’s first multi‑user, all‑gender restroom, supporting dignity, inclusion, and accessibility.
Student Life and Community Connection
Beyond academics, the building provides spaces that support connection and engagement.
These include:
- A student lounge for Student Life and Leadership activities
- Informal gathering and collaboration areas throughout the building
- Outdoor courtyards and covered seating areas
With this space, students can connect with peers, participate in campus life, and engage with the college community.
Sustainability and Outdoor Environment
In alignment with Palomar College’s commitment to environmental stewardship, the building incorporates several sustainable design features:
- A 155‑kilowatt solar photovoltaic system
- Extensive daylighting and indoor‑outdoor connections
- Edible landscaping, including citrus, grapes, and loquat trees
- A Contemplation Garden offering a quiet place for reflection
These features support wellness, sustainability, and a strong connection to the natural environment.
Honoring Culture and Community
The design of the Fallbrook Student Resource and Learning Center reflects collaboration with students, faculty, local schools, community partners, and local Native American Tribal Nations.
Cultural design elements are integrated throughout the building and landscape through color, texture, pattern, plant selection, and naming. In this way, the project honors the history of the land and the community it serves.
Serving Fallbrook Today and Into the Future
The Fallbrook Student Resource and Learning Center represents a long‑term investment in education, access, and community connection. By expanding learning environments and strengthening student support, Palomar College continues to serve the Fallbrook & surrounding communities today and for generations to come.
Image Sources
- West Approach Rendering: HCM Architects
- Exterior-South View: HCM Architects
- Exterior-Southeast View: HCM Architects
- Courtyard View: HCM Architects
- PCCD FEC Aerial: HCM Architects
- Student Service View 1: HCM Architects
- Student Service View 2: HCM Architects
- Library View 1: HCM Architects
- Library View 2: HCM Architects
- Faculty Suite Perspective: HCM Architects
- Group Study Room – Mountain Theme 2: HCM Architects
- Group Study Room – Mountain Theme 1: HCM Architects
- Student Lounge View 1: HCM Architects
- Student Lounge View 2: HCM Architects
- West Approach Rendering (1): HCM Architects















