Alvernia University Landscape Master Plan

Our engagement with Alvernia University began with the Landscape Master Plan which presented many suggestions for the development and enhancement of the physical campus. The guiding themes of the planning effort were: defining and enhancing the campus atmosphere; connecting the campus with its surroundings including Angelica Park; and creating a cohesive and strong Alvernia campus aesthetic.

Our planning studied various areas of the campus including entrances and edges, circulation paths, exterior spaces, and building entrances. Also included within our planning was a consideration of landscape plantings, site furnishings, and signage and wayfinding. Through this planning process, our first priorities became apparent:  

• Develop a Campus Commons, a green oasis in the center of the campus
• Enhance the existing entrance boulevard to make a stronger welcoming statement and ease visitors onto campus
• Create new, and/or rejuvenate several existing entry and plaza areas to provide more social areas for students, faculty, and staff
• Return key areas of the campus to the domain of the pedestrian
• Utilize Angelica Park to develop a ceremonial main entrance to campus
• Develop an identifiable and uniquely ‘Alvernia’ aesthetic through the use of signage, wayfinding, furnishings, and plant material
• Create a park-like campus with ample shade and gathering spaces