The landscape design takes its cue from the distinctive features of the Brandywine campus: sweeping lawns, majestic groves of trees, and the woods’ edge that frames the campus. These elements are repeated and enhanced in the landscape design, to integrate the new building thoughtfully and gracefully into the existing campus. The outdoor terraces at the Student Union were carefully placed to create meaningful outdoor social spaces at the main entries. In addition to comfort, the outdoor spaces were oriented to capitalize on long view from both the upper green and the new Orchard Hall residence at the periphery of the campus, helping to draw students and visitors through the new landscape.

The presentation of the landscape design as seen from the primary interior spaces was also a key consideration creating an aesthetic link between the central academic space and the new residential precinct. In recognition of the seasonality of the academic year, the planting design emphasizes fall, winter, and early spring interest: colorful autumn foliage, winter bark, evergreens, and early spring bloom. Native trees and shrubs evocative of the existing woods were prioritized.