Fine Arts Center at the University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR / Under Construction

Client | University of Arkansas

Architect | Deborah Berke Partners & Miller Boskus Lack

The campus concept design provides pedestrian focused environments with flexible areas for exterior programming. The design creates engaging outdoor spaces that foster a sense of community and raise engagement levels between students, faculty, and guests. The design will improve pedestrian security, accessibility, and intuitive paths to building entries. The proposed design will utilize a consistent palette of paving and planting materials to create consistency and an undeniable sense of place.

For the Sculpture Garden, the brick paving will be removed and re-laid at a higher elevation to provide ADA access from entryways. The fountain and pump systems will be renovated and restored. The three Japanese Maples will be removed to reduce maintenance issues associated with the fountain and to open views from the Lobby. A rectilinear lawn space provides flexible space for events. The north side of the garden will include a stone fines seating area with tree plantings in circular rings river cobble and stone bench seating. The brick masonry wall will be cleaned and repointed. A planted hedge on the exterior of the wall will reduce noise and visual pollution. Flexible tables and chairs will be provided for seating in the stone fines area and lawn. Steel edging will be required at all edges of stone fines and brick paving.

The Outdoor Theater Court will be revitalized to allow for modern outdoor gathering and performances. The flagstone access paths will be removed, and new bluestone pavement will provide accessible entry to the theater. A bluestone ADA sloped walk will provide access to the lower level. New lighting and electrical will be provided for programmed events. The brick masonry walls will be cleaned, repointed, and reconstructed as needed. A planted hedge on the exterior of the wall will reduce noise and visual pollution. Steel edging will be required at all edges of stone paving.

A new outdoor workspace/terrace is proposed for the North Landscape. A design proposes a new overhead shade structure and waddle fence based on the original design. Steel edging will be required at all edges of stone and stone fines paving.