Fullerton, CA

"Overgrown backyard" has been the term used to describe the condition of the quad at Cal State University in Fullerton, California. Overgrown trees, a maze of walks, earth mounds void of vegetation and "coffin-like cement benches" define a space passed through by thousands daily. As the university celebrates its 40th anniversary, campus officials have focused their efforts towards pumping new life into the heart of the campus.

The first day of the charette introduced participants to the technical resource team which included Landscape Architects Paul Gabert, senior designer and Eric Flodine, project manager of Forma Inc. based in Irvine, California, architects Bauer and Wiley, and urban planners. The team's role was to take participant's recommendations and prepare conceptual plans and elevations into a functional solution. The participants were then presented with a slide show that highlighted the major elements of public space design. Finally, guidelines for discussion during the charette were set.

The second day, participants were broken into small groups that discussed values, goals, unique qualities, and big ideas for the quad's future. The adopted goals included: maintaining places for people, affirming campus identity, and developing multiple use areas. The major elements desired by the campus community included: study areas, sunken seating, water elements, marketplaces, cafes, flowers and sculptures.

On the final day, the technical resource team synthesized the work of the charette into a cohesive and viable alternative incorporating the major elements agreed upon. Drawing from the talents and expertise of the various members, the team prepared two conceptual plans and four conceptual elevations which ultimately represent the campus community's vision for the quad's future.