Florida Gulf Coast University – Master Plan

FGCU’s explosive growth is reflected in the wide variety of our work around its main campus.

Over the span of three years, the design team worked to refine the concept master plan for the campus spine, extending from the campus entry through the main academic core and ending at the library lawn.  The primary concepts were to create an entry experience for visitors to the campus to provide them with an understanding of the university’s surroundings in a natural, mostly undisturbed, wetland environment and to create enhanced pedestrian experiences within the campus core.  Several projects came out of this effort. 

A major effort was a complete replacement of the landscaping at the half-mile-long entry road with native landscape and a catered experience that highlights the bodies of water and wildlife.  A new 80-foot-tall signal tower and 125–foot–long signage made out of unfinished concrete provides a campus presence at their entry unlike any other school in Florida.  The library lawn had its sod, lighting, pathways, and trees replaced with native landscape more accommodating to pedestrian paths and outdoor activities.  Finally, a pavilion and outdoor classroom spaces dedicated to the campus’ veterans was constructed on the lakefront to provide a space for presentations, concerts, and social interaction.