University of Rochester | Jackson Court

Rochester averages 77 inches of snow per year. For the University of Rochester, where the academic year nearly coincides with the “snow year,” this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. This design for a new residential quad capitalizes on Rochester’s weather by celebrating the winter landscape experience. A brick fireplace serves as a literal hearth for student to gather near the intersection of campus walks. Stormwater landscapes serve as important storage areas for plowed snow in the winter and attractive “roughs” or foundation plantings in spring and fall. Open lawns provide flexible all-season spaces for informal recreation and play. New hardscapes and plantings reinforce the campus’ unique character through consistency with the campus design standards as well as site-specific expressions for a tailored sense of place for the residents of this quad.