Landscape and Open Space Planning

Buildings are essential elements of campus, although what in many ways defines a campus are the spaces between buildings - sidewalks, landscapes, plazas, courtyards, and other features we collectively refer to as 'open space'.  Because open spaces are used by all but do not typically have designated residents to advocate for them (as do buildings), our role in planning for open spaces is not only challenging but essential as well. There is a growing recognition of the importance of campus open space for student recruitment.

Planning, Design and Construction - Planning (PDC-Planning) develops open space and landscape plans, both in-house and with the assistance of consultants. A sample of plans for future improvement as well as completed projects is provided below.

Planned Projects

Sciences Concourse 

The Natural Sciences Open Spaces Corridor Conceptual Master Plan is a plan for a new open space in the area between Gould-Simpson and BioSciences West, often refered to as the "sciences concourse".  Summary graphic of the plan.

Founder's Plaza 

Founder's Plaza is a proposed open space project that will extend the recently completed plaza at the east steps of Old Main east into the mall to the approximate location of the current stage (which will be replaced),

Arts Oasis Landscape Master Plan

This Master Plan is for the south side of the Olive Underpass reaching between Art, Architecture, and Creative Photography.

Completed Projects

Women's Plaza

This plaza is located between Centennial Hall and Anthropology and includes seating, commemorative features, shade, and sculptural elements.

Warren Mall, AHSC

This recently completed project provides one segment of a north-south mall connecting main campus to the AHSC area.

University Village Town Center / LSB Quad

Visitor Center Landscape Revitalization

Alumni Plaza

Highland Quadrangle

Highland Parking Garage Landscape Buffer and Stormwater Mitigation