Design Challenge: Ohio University’s Class Gateway Plaza is the historic centerpiece of the campus, featuring brick walkways and over 100 species of trees. It includes the Alumni Gateway and serves as a peaceful retreat for students and faculty alike. Bringing the historic tiered plaza up to current ADA accessibility standards posed a challenge for the university. Additionally, they needed to upgrade deteriorating architectural elements while preserving the plaza’s original character.

Design Solution: Working closely with the university’s facilities group, MSP utilized 3D technology to present photorealistic options. The final design seamlessly integrated accessible entry points and improved pedestrian circulation into the existing hardscape patterns. Special attention was paid to implementing the design with minimal disruption to current circulation patterns and major campus events.

Design Outcome: With the incorporation of ADA accessible entry points and architectural upgrades, the Class Gateway Plaza now serves the entire Ohio University community for generations to come. It remains a popular gathering spot and a favored location for student and alumni photo opportunities.

Explore more about the Class Gateway Plaza’s revitalization project and its impact on campus life.

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