University of California San Diego, Franklin Antonio Hall

Introduction

Franklin Antonio Hall at the University of California San Diego was envisioned as a groundbreaking hub for collaborative research, active learning, and innovation. The university needed an adaptable, durable, and future-forward furniture and architectural solutions package that could support a diverse range of users—including students, faculty, research teams, and industry partners—across thirteen state-of-the-art collaboratories and numerous learning environments.

Objectives & Scope

Improve student satisfaction and overall learning experience
Support interdisciplinary collaboration
Enhance productivity for students, faculty, and researchers
Integrate sustainable, durable furniture and materials
Meet functional and aesthetic needs while adhering to a defined budget
Furnish and support a 186,000 SF facility including classrooms, auditorium, labs, workstations, offices, and open collaboration areas

Approach

Hyphn partnered closely with UC San Diego and project trades to provide an integrated package of furniture, demountable walls, and design services. Over two years, the team collaborated individually with each research group to understand their unique requirements and craft tailored solutions—while maintaining alignment with the university’s broader vision for the building. The approach balanced customization with consistency, ensuring cohesion across a highly complex facility.

Outcomes & Impact

Hyphn delivered a comprehensive, user-centered solution that transformed Franklin Antonio Hall into an inviting, functional, and future-ready environment. The new spaces support collaboration, enhance student and faculty productivity, and reinforce UC San Diego’s reputation as a leader in research and innovation—all while meeting sustainability and budget goals.

Key Takeaways

Tailored solutions for 13 different large research facilities were successfully implemented within a unified design vision
Close end-user engagement ensured solutions aligned with real academic and research needs
Flexible, durable, and high-performance furnishings helped create a world-class learning and innovation environment

“Hyphn was an absolute pleasure to work with and instrumental in outfitting the complex space at Franklin Antonio Hall. Their expertise in space planning, finishes, and material durability helped us meet the needs of a wide range of users across nearly 200,000 square feet—all while staying on budget. Alegra, Cyndi, and the entire team were resourceful, responsive, and excellent partners in maximizing the budget for a world-class building. I would be very happy to work with Hyphn again anytime.”

Sandy McIsaac
Special Projects and Administrative Manager
UCSD Jacobs School of Engineering