Abstract:
Ball state University has taken many important steps to improve its sustainability on campus in a number of ways and is a recognized leader among green campuses. One of the areas where they can further improve their sustainability efforts is in the campus landscape itself. This comprehensive project proposal set the scope and background behind the design of a series of outdoor exhibits which embody different principles of sustainability including Ball State's history, native plant habitats, geothermal energy, stormwater management, sustainable materials. This project proposal covered a site that is approximately six acres in size transected by McKinley Avenue, and surrounded by the Letterman Building, the College of Architecture and Planning, Bracken Library, and the Whitinger Business Building.
Through a review of literature focusing on basic principles of campus landscape design, methods used to incorporate educational elements into landscape design, research into the specific principles that would be implemented, and the unique history of Ball State University, an insight was gained into how this project could meet all of its intended goals. A more detailed look at several case studies of similar projects of varying scales was useful in the design of such a project in a university campus setting.
This comprehensive project resulted in a master plan, larger scale planting plans, specific exhibit design and construction details. This exhibit has become a piece of the campus landscape that provides a unique place for students on campus while demonstrating principles of sustainability. This design incorporated an understanding of campus design, the native habitats of Indiana, elements of education, and stormwater management to meet the goals of the project.
