An existing two-story wing of the Harvard Science Center was replaced with a four story addition, housing the Museum of Scientific Instruments and office space. This project involved redesign of the courtyard and the Oxford Street landscape, providing an accessible entrance to the building. Both courtyard and streetscape are constructed over the structure. Accessibility is provided by a sidewalk connection towards the center of campus, with steps directed toward Oxford Street and the North Campus. A wall supports the walkway above grade, with a long bench facing Oxford Street. The courtyard provides a series of stepped terraces with tree planting beds and benches. Moveable tables and chairs provide seating in warm weather, with fixed benches and broad steps for additional seating. A variety of trees, shrubs and groundcovers in the courtyard screen and integrate exposed ventilation grates which service the Central Chiller Plant below.

Recognition
Boston Society of Landscape Architects | Merit Award 2005
Boston Society of Architects | Honor Award for Design Excellence 2004

Collaborators
Leers Weinzapfel Associates

Photography
Charles Mayer