Conventional campus master plans are structured around building arrangements – typically organized to form a quadrangle or other large open space. In more dense locations, where land is limited, linear and/or grid arrangements are more common. In both scenarios, the arrangement of buildings takes precedent over the location of walkways and open space. An alternative approach to this standard planning technique gives primary consideration to a system of themed walkways as structuring elements for the master plan.
For example, in 2001 Dober Lidsky Craig and Associates prepared a master plan for Washington & Jefferson College. The College, constructed in 1793, features several large mature trees and rolling topography. Dober Lidsky Craig’s first proposal emphasized the campus’s aesthetics by suggesting the development of an oval-shaped campus green as a
structuring element. However, the proposal required the demolition of existing income- generating buildings and limited the potential for future development.
As an alternative, the firm presented a revised plan in which a series of themed walkways served as the anchor for future development. The new plan balanced the desire to accentuate the campus’s attractive setting while meeting the financial needs of the College.
Walkway themes such as historic, social, art, and pastoral – as in the case of Washington & Jefferson – demonstrate and expand concepts relevant to their respective campuses. For example, the “historic” walkway at Washington & Jefferson emphasizes the history and traditions of the College through spaced monuments and memorials. The social walkway
features elements such as outdoor café tables and gathering areas and runs through the center of the campus. Themed walkways are typically oriented along the axis of existing walkways and buildings. They serve as connectors to appropriate building anchors or mid-points and set the tone for future development. They also present an opportunity
for income generation through the use of “donor pavers” where names of donors are
imbedded in paving materials.
Using a system of walkways as the primary structuring element for campus master planning provides a comprehensive basis for master planning, allows for flexibility, provides new meaning to the function of walkways, enhances open space, and produces revenue.
Jerrell Angell, AIA, LEED AP is a Principal at TRO Jung|Brannen and is a Trustee of Washington and Jefferson College. TRO Jung|Brannen is an international planning and design firm of 200 professionals with practice areas in commercial, arts & education, healthcare, hospitality & residential, and research.
