Cornell Engineering retrofitted Upson Hall to provide updated educational and laboratory research areas and modern building energy conservation systems. The project has been awarded the U.S. Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification.

The updated landscape enhances the industrial and contemporary aesthetic of the architecture through forms and materials.

The pavement edges of the universally accessible pathways and plazas extend the architectural forms.

The pavement edges of the universally accessible pathways and plazas extend the architectural angles, while concrete form liner walls build on the industrial nature of the contemporary building facade panels.

Plazas and accessible routes were added throughout the site to enhance connectivity and create informal gathering spaces.  Strategically placed plantings of low shrubs, grasses, ferns, and shade trees provide open views for greater visual connectivity. Green roof plantings and terraced bioswales are interwoven to enhance the environmental performance of the site.