October 19, 2005

Campus as Art

Through the Use of Inviting Architecture and “Pocket Parks” GW Makes Washington’s Urban Landscape Feel Like Home

BY JULIE WOODFORD

Getting away from the grind of classes, meetings, or deadlines to take a stroll through campus can be an uplifting experience, thanks to a concerted effort by the University to establish a sense of community through more green spaces, art displays, and the establishment of a consistent look throughout.

Achieving a consistent and unique campus image is accomplished through the partnership of many departments and contractors. Architects are contracted to design parks and landscaping. Once the projects are complete, the University Grounds Maintenance team works around the clock to keep the landscaping looking its best. Noel Gasparin, grounds department manager, explained that “one thing we do on campus with space is we have ‘green’ space rather than always using the land for other purposes.”

Areas such as the rose garden along University Yard must be tended on a daily basis. To achieve a consistent look within the campus, fewer varieties of plants, in much larger quantities, are used. For example 20,000 bulbs of tulip varieties and daffodils are planted, and prior to graduation in May, up to 8,000 summer annuals are replanted. Right now Gasparin’s favorite place is the University Yard because, despite the summer drought, the grass looks the best it has in years.

President Stephen Joel Trachtenberg’s admiration of art has led to a partnership with various individuals to enhance the campus through the donation of many sculptures — more than a dozen sculptures on the Foggy Bottom Campus — during his tenure.

“I think of the University as a work of art, as an aesthetic experience, so having art like the sculptures and landscaping is very consequential,” remarked Trachtenberg. A visually appealing environment, he added, provides positive mental health and satisfaction.

One of his favorite places on campus is Kogan Plaza, which provides a large open space, grassy areas, and a positive, fresh environment. “It’s a great place to take a break, grab a cup of coffee, and sit on a bench watching students walking by.”

Beautifying the campus creates more than simply a pleasant environment for students and faculty, according to Louis Katz, executive vice president and treasurer. As important as improving the aesthetics, according to Katz, is creating a sense of community for the GW family and the surrounding residential neighbors. When he first arrived at Foggy Bottom, he felt the campus was “very functional,” but with time the administration has provided a more unique identity through green spaces and inviting architecture. Funding these projects to achieve a sense of community is considered a priority at GW. Future construction will continue to provide more green spaces, pathways, and a sense of consistency for the community.

“Even when we put a bench in front of a dorm or building,” Katz said, “it adds to the sense of community we’ve accomplished with the unique space we have.”

Send feedback to: bygeorge@gwu.edu