Student commons are no longer simply congregation spaces for students with time on their hands. They are integral to providing a welcoming environment and effective learning space for students. Many student commons have been transformed into spaces for socialization, an environment for alternative teaching methods, a forum for large group meetings and distance learning, and an area for consultation or individual and small-group work. This paper addresses the student commons area in terms of its use as a social space for student or instructional space, and covers the common design principles that all commons areas should have. Included are brief comments on educational trends that have fostered the growth of commons areas. Highlighted design principles that should be included in all common areas present areas that convey a sense of place and belonging for students, balance the pragmatic maintenance/organizational concerns of the administration with the psycho social needs of students, and make the student commons a true learning environment. [This is an updated version of ED446426 (published in 2000).]