UC Davis Alumni Center
University of California Davis, Davis, California
A curvilinear garden walk meanders along the eastern edge of the site to create a connection to the University Arboretum. Existing trees from the University Environmental Horticulture Collection were preserved and incorporated into the design of the garden walk. To enhance the campus horticultural teaching collection, the design staff carefully collaborated with the University Arboretum. The theme of blue and gold, a tribute to the University and the Cal Aggie Alumni Association, was used in plant material selection.
Antonia Bava Landscape Architects designed the Alumni Center to be a focus for visitors, alumni events and administration. Located across from the Performing Arts Center at a main entrance to the campus, the two story building orients south to the campus edge and north to the center of campus. The landscape plan features a variety of outdoor gathering areas and an arboretum garden. A plaza and grassy area to the north of the building provide a setting for alumni and visitor events. The area is enclosed by a long curving wall providing seating for large groups or individual users.