At Cornell University, the first two years of the educational journey are pivotal for students’ academic growth, personal development, and community building. Recognizing this, Cornell embarked on the North Campus Residential Initiative (NCRI) project to provide more intentional support during these formative years.
Van Zandbergen Photography
Adding 2,000 beds and a dining facility to North Campus, the NCRI LEED Gold Project addresses the pressing need for on-campus housing, offering developmentally appropriate accommodations for all first-year students while allowing sophomores to remain on site. This initiative also alleviates housing pressures in nearby neighborhoods.
Fisher Associates was the lead Landscape Architect on the project team working closely with the university. The site design is anchored in a hierarchy of memorable, flexible, and accessible open spaces. These spaces include hardscape plazas, open lawns, and a variety of intimate spaces for study, contemplation, and play.
Katherine Solomon & Jacob Mroczek Photography
Stormwater management is artfully integrated into the site design and includes an array of rain gardens and stormwater planters that capture run-off for use in native gardens.
Katherine Solomon & Jacob Mroczek Photography
Through thoughtful planning and design, the NCRI not only meets immediate housing needs but also enriches the campus experience, fostering a supportive and engaging environment for Cornell’s students.
Katherine Solomon & Jacob Mroczek Photography
Fisher developed the overall site masterplan and detailed design and construction documents for two phases of the project. Fisher coordinated the municipal and environmental approvals with both the Town of Ithaca and the City of Ithaca as the project was located in two municipalities.
Katherine Solomon & Jacob Mroczek Photography
Roof drains outlet to stormwater planters that support seasonal floral displays and pollinator species.
Katherine Solomon & Jacob Mroczek Photography
Native plantings that support bird and pollinator species are supported by the rain gardens. The gardens also provide opportunities for contemplative relaxation and social interaction.
Katherine Solomon & Jacob Mroczek Photography
