Beckett & Raeder, Inc. was retained by the University of Michigan to provide Landscape Architecture and Planning services for the renovated Observatory Lodge. The design created a terraced courtyard, alleviating a severely steep slope that was nearly impossible to grow any vegetation on and difficult to maintain. The BRI scope of work included hardscape, bike storage, site furnishings, landscape and irrigation. The site was designed in character with the period of the architecture, and particular attention was given to softening the south facade that immediately abuts a campus parking lot with columnar Ginkgo trees and plant beds. Continuity of materials and design detailing of the site improvements were carefully executed to compliment the historic character of the building and to blend into the context of the surrounding campus neighborhood.
University of Michigan Observatory Lodge
Ann Arbor, Michigan
2016 Landscape Architectural Sustainability Honor Award
Michigan Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects