Where Digital Athletes Level Up
What does it take to support the next generation of esports athletes? It starts with a space built for high-stakes competition, team building, and community. For Michigan State University (MSU), that meant transforming an empty classroom into a dedicated home for its growing esports program – a space where students could gather, compete, learn, and connect.
With three varsity esports teams and the MSU Esports Club Association—one of the university’s largest student organizations with over 2,000 members—the need for a purpose-driven environment was clear. The university envisioned a space that could elevate competition against other Big Ten schools while also supporting academic and career development in areas like broadcasting, media production, and graphic design.
That’s where NBS came into play. Working alongside Steelcase, our team provided the furnishings and functional enhancements that would transform the space into a lively, action-packed hub. Drawing on our deep experience in learning environments, we helped create a space that’s not only fun and exciting, but also ergonomic, flexible, and built to last.
The competition hub is designed for peak performance, starting with battle stations optimized for serious gameplay. Expansive work surfaces accommodate keyboards, peripherals, and dual-monitor setups. Height-adjustable desks and custom-embroidered Steelcase Gesture chairs offer ergonomic support for extended gameplay along with a touch of Spartan pride. Open layouts allow for seamless communication between players and coaches and clear sightlines for teammates and fans. A glass-enclosed competition booth provides critical sound dampening during high-stakes matches while giving spectators a good view of the action.
Beyond competition, the hub features lounge seating, large tables, and social spaces that invite students to hang out, watch matches, and study. Students can also take advantage of the film study and review room, where they can analyze gameplay and refine strategies.
The Hubbard Esports Competition Hub isn’t just advancing the future of gaming at MSU, it’s empowering the next generation of leaders, creators, and innovators through a space designed for learning, connection, and real-world growth.
Christopher Bilski, Director of Esports at MSU, shared in a Steelcase video, “When I was looking at what I hoped for this space, I didn’t just want rows of computers. I didn’t want a dark room with lasers. I wanted a space that was balanced where students could come here and connect. I think that was probably goal number one for me, and I very much feel like we’ve achieved that goal. This space supports the different needs that we have from such a holistic program that we’re trying to build.”
Read more about the space in Steelcase’s article, Gathering to Game.
Learn more about Esports at MSU: comartsci.msu.edu/esports/
