The Commons Ground Makerspace is more than just a collection of workspaces; it's a community built to inspire, connect, and empower the Guilford College community.

It is a 24/7 hub designed to support student, faculty, and staff projects. The space brings together cutting-edge technology, collaborative areas, quiet study zones, and creative studios under one roof.

Whether you need a place to workshop a project, meet with your peers, or simply focus, the Commons Ground is your go-to destination for ideas in action.

Our 3D printing services allow you to bring your designs to life. Our fleet of 3D printers is available for everything from prototyping and model creation to artistic projects and educational tools.

All requests must go through Commons Ground staff (see the links below) and all prints will cost $0.10/gram (charged to your Guilford account).

3D printing policies | Submit a file (in .slt or .gcode format)

Our virtual reality (VR) lab allows you to step into immersive digital environments for hands-on learning, research simulation, collaborative projects, or unique creative experiences.

Please read our VR policies and print and sign the liability release agreement before reserving a time.

We are currently limiting reservations to 2 hours maximum.

Bring your ideas to life through visual and audio storytelling. Whether you're creating a news segment, recording a podcast, or producing a documentary, the studio offers the tools to transform concepts into compelling narratives.

Equipment includes state-of-the-art 4K PTZ cameras, wireless RODE lavalier microphones, studio lighting, a 98" background planel display, and editing software. The studio is also capable of live broadcasts both there and in remote locations.

The Photography Studio is a creative space for capturing, editing, and producing high-quality visuals. Equipped with professional-grade lighting, staging, and camera tools, it supports projects ranging from academic presentations to creative portfolios.

Photographs can be edited on the Adobe Creative Suite and other software located throughout the Commons Ground, particularly in the Ideation Lab.

The Immersive Experiences (IMEX) Hub is where innovation starts in the Commons Ground. It is a space where bold ideas, from student-led sustainability projects to collaborative prototypes, come to life. Here, the Guilford community can turn a simple spark into something remarkable.

Key features and resources:

• Flexible, configurable workspaces and relaxing areas

• Digital displays and wall-mounted whiteboards

• Gaming areas with a PlayStation 5 and an XBox One

The Podcast Studio allows up to 4 people to record a podcast at a time. The Rodecaster Pro II soundboard gives the host granular control over the recording process in one easy-to-understand package.

Podcast studio policies | Reserve a time | Rodecaster Pro II manual (PDF)

Equipped with sewing machines, cutting tables, and other essential tools, it is a creative space for sewing, fabric arts, and hands-on projects. Individuals and classes and create projects based on knitting, embroidery, quilting, and mixed-media. Tradition and innovation meet here and makers can share skills and solve problems.

Screenprinting projects are also welcome! Projects large and small can be made in both the Crafting Studio and the Fabrication Lab.