University of Ottawa Learning Gardens

Client

University of Ottawa

Location

Ottawa

Completion

2021

The loading dock renewal project next to the University Centre at the University of Ottawa included upgrades to existing learning gardens, outdoor amenity areas, and campus circulation. The overall goal of the project was to improve the pedestrian environment and accessibility between Louis Pasteur Private and the lower level of the University Centre, including the addition of new concrete stairs and ramps to meet code requirements. An added informal seating area on a lower terrace area acts as an extension to the adjacent interior food services.

The rehabilitation of the learning gardens took a forgotten space and formalized it with sitting walls, while protecting existing trees. Providing a space for learning opportunities involved working with multiple stakeholders at the university, including the Indigenous Resource Centre, Wild Pollinator Partners, and sustainability groups, all in the interest of providing students and staff with a space to take pride in and ownership of. Moveable garden boxes developed through working with the campus sustainability officer allow for seasonal vegetable gardening. Overall, the intricate planting design includes specific plant material selected to create a native, pollinator-friendly garden with significant Indigenous species throughout.