In 2016 - 2017, UC Hastings held a competition for a new academic building and campus quad. CLA participated on a concept design for this project with WRT Design and Webcor Builders. The team organized the building and landscape into a seamless whole that promotes effective circulation and easy social interaction. CLA designed two main landscape spaces: the Academic Quad and the Roof Terrace. Both spaces encourage openness, flexible uses, and graceful indoor/outdoor transitions. In addition, the streetscape and main entry celebrate the new quad while providing safe and clear circulation, knitting the proposal into the urban fabric.
The Academic Quad serves as the heart of campus life. It provides a large amphitheater space that serves as a fitting stage for both the circulation and small group gatherings of every day campus life, as well as for the large crowds that gather for special events. In contrast, the Roof Terrace is a more intimate, contemplative space reserved for celebration and visioning of the future of Hastings. With its incredible views to Civic Center and beyond, the Roof Terrace provides garden rooms open to sunlight and views while sheltered from wind, places to envision the campus’ place, role, and significance in the larger world.