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Western Technical College

Cleary
Courtyard

Client
Western Technical College
Location
La Crosse, WI
Completion date
August 2009

Utilizing the urban context and the surrounding environmental beauty of the Mississippi River Valley, the Cleary Courtyard is both a destination and a transition space located at the center of campus.  

The courtyard provides an amphitheater, an outdoor cafe, and an informal gathering space utilizing sustainable stormwater management practices, green infrastructure, native plants and locally sourced materials. Located within the bluffs of the Mississippi River Valley in the Driftless Region of Southwest Wisconsin, this urban plaza embraces biomimicry, designed to mimic the layers of the surrounding strata as one passes through the valley.   A linear path through the primary corridor of campus features a pavement constellation honoring the donors who provided for this place of ambiance. Functional seating and abundant lighting encourage students to traverse this previously-underused pathway. 

Awards
Merit Award
ASLA Central States
2012
Honor Award
ASLA Iowa Chapter
2010
Merit Award for Construction
ASLA Wisconsin Chapter
2010