A Landscape for Fostering Community at Saint Joseph's University
Designed at a time when connection and inclusivity are more critical than ever, Viridian's landscape for SJU's new 500-student residence, Sister Thea Bowman Hall, helps first-year students feel seen, supported, and part of something larger. The design champions accessibility, resilience, and a shared campus identity—one strengthened not by uniformity, but by the diversity central to SJU's mission.
Landscape as a Catalyst for Belonging
"The Great Lawn" is the vibrant and verdant heart of SJU's new residence—a classic college quad that anchors the residence and invites spontaneous connection. Carefully integrated into the building design from Blackney Hayes, the surrounding terraces and green spaces invite all types of gatherings, from large-scale events to quiet conversations and private reflection in the adjacent wellness garden. These layered outdoor spaces support social well-being, academic success, and a sense of place from day one.
Accessibility, Built-In from the Start
Students access the walled rose garden from the heart of the new building, and we worked closely with SMP to create a seamless connection between indoors and out. Developed around a central axis extending from the building, we designed spacious plazas at the front and rear of the new building, and an ADA-accessible amphitheater in the rose garden, creating inviting gathering spaces that will help foster a sense of community at Notre Dame.
Large beds of native plants reintroduced rose bushes to the garden, and six new redbud trees will grow to shade the seating area, making outdoor learning an option on even the sunniest days.
Sustainable Planting to Enrich the Campus Experience
Across the site, we selected native plantings to reduce maintenance requirements while supporting local ecology. We carefully planned for seasonal interest to enhance key moments in campus life—especially summer blooms that elevate the graduation experience. This work expands on the planting program we've developed elsewhere on campus, using landscape architecture, not just buildings, to unify the student experience, creating continuity, identity, and connection beyond the classroom.
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3868 Terrace St.
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