Mission College Interdisciplinary Plaza
The removal of Mission College's main building, constructed in 1976, offered an opportunity to create a multi-functional outdoor quad at the heart of the community college campus. As the landscape architect for the lead firm, WRNS Architects, Gates Studio directed the design of the new central plaza. Surrounded by buildings that create a defined edge around the open space, the plaza includes outdoor study areas, a performance venue, woodland classrooms, spots for relaxation and solitude, and arrival nodes that connect to key destinations and parking.
The $22 million plaza has established a renewed “sense of place” for the campus and serves as a focal point for campus activities. Shade trees are thoughtfully distributed throughout the plaza, offering protection from the elements, and benches and seat walls provide seating options. The area presents a prime opportunity to incorporate public art into the landscape.
This project was completed in 2021.
Santa Clara, CA
Design for Flexible Uses
At the center of the plaza, a large, shaded amphitheater with tiered seating overlooks the open radial lawn, serving as a lively venue for events ranging from graduation ceremonies to the college’s popular Summer Concert Series.
Photo Credit: Doug Zimmerman
Aerial of native plant garden seating nodes
Shaded outdoor study area adjacent to library includes infinity fountain water feature
Informal seating area at the plaza's edge
Infinity fountain water feature shaded by dappled canopy
Main shade canopy over outdoor amphitheater
Curved seat wall and pebble seating
Vibrant signage provides a strong entrance to the plaza