a tradition of courtyards at saint mary's
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The favorable weather conditions in the Northern California area have led to the development of outdoor spaces throughout campus, a part of Saint Mary's architectural tradition. Each one has their own unique character, allowing for a variety of activities.
A major feature of this project is the development of a central courtyard that provides an interface between residential and academic life. The courtyard acts as a point of arrival to those accessing the building from central campus. Its design is centrally focused around a depressed planting area that will become the home for a cluster of native oak trees, creating seating and informal classroom space for students and faculty. This gathering space will reinforce both the academic mission and sense of community.
Pathways, benches, and planting along the building edges complete the symmetrical design and allow circulation to move freely between Filippi and Augustine Halls and to other parts of the campus. The overall courtyard layout also serves to create a new entry forecourt to Augustine Hall, which will soon have a new, more prominent entrance from this façade.
