Clemson University | Douthit Commons

This project reimagines an undeveloped open space between the College of Business and Douthit Hills residence halls as a vibrant campus space designed to host diverse activities and to serve both its academic and residential neighbors. Near to the business school, the “Study Grove” provides space for outdoor classes, group project work or individual study, all in a setting designed to evoke the dignity, restraint and professionalism that the business school encourages in its students. Nearer to the residence halls is a large flexible turf lawn for holding events and regular programming. The lawn is framed by a sculptural water feature, an all-weather pavilion, a game room, a hammock grove and an outdoor living room. The design draws inspiration from Clemson’s iconic collegiate landscapes nearby, but with a strong underlying sense of fun and play. A diverse body of campus stakeholders was engaged throughout the design process to ensure that the final design responds to a broad array of interests.