Colgate University

At Colgate University, QRP transformed a steep, underutilized hillside into an exciting new campus precinct. Prepared in collaboration with campus planners Cooper Robertson and Centerbrook Architects, the plan organizes several existing and proposed new buildings into a sequence of landscape spaces, culminating in a dramatic new quadrangle overlooking Taylor Lake.

A new path system encourages circulation along the contours of the site, connecting popular destinations and easing travel up the school’s infamous “Cardiac Hill.”

The plan also rationalizes parking in the lower campus, removing cars from pedestrian areas and consolidating them along the perimeter. Vehicular roundabouts provide places for pedestrian drop-off and help simplify previously awkward roadway crossings.

The first phase of the project included landscape for a new art building, grand stairways with overlooks, and the quadrangle. A gently curving “Art Walk,” extending south from the quadrangle, links buildings dedicated to performing arts, studio arts, and art history.

Location

Hamilton, NY

Client

Colgate University

Role

Landscape Architect

Team

Cooper Robertson & Partners
Centerbrook Architects