Design Challenge: Ohio University’s Class Gateway Plaza is the historic centerpiece of the campus with brick walkways and over 100 species of trees. It includes the Alumni Gateway and Class Gateway and provides a place of respite for students and faculty. Bringing the historic tiered plaza up to current ADA accessibility standards and upgrading deteriorating architectural elements without changing the look and feel was a challenge for the university.

Design Solution: Working closely with the university’s facilities group, MSP used 3D technology to give photorealistic options to the university. The final design incorporated accessible entry points and pedestrian circulation into the existing patterns of the hardscape with minimal impact to the historic plaza. Particular attention was taken to implement the design with little disruption to current circulation patterns and key campus events.

Design Outcome: With the addition of ADA accessible entry points and architectural upgrades, the Class Gateway Plaza can now serve the entire Ohio University community for years to come. It continues to be a popular gathering spot and go-to place for student and alumni photo opportunities.