Landscape Architecture

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University of Vermont Plant and Soil Science Building

In collaboration with the University of Vermont and project architects, SE Group helped design a new facility for two departments within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences: the Plant and Soil Sciences Department and the Department of Plant Biology. This building is the research home for the study of biology, biochemistry and plant biology. It is a state of the art teaching facility that opened its doors to students in the fall of 2010, and is one of the largest and most significant academic structures ever built on the UVM campus. The faculty research labs and undergraduate teaching labs offer cutting edge equipment for ongoing research. The living laboratory outside the building’s walls is what truly sets Jeffords Hall apart.

When this project first began being conceptualized with faculty and staff, it was clear we needed to create a design that embodied a teaching and learning atmosphere outside the building, creating outdoor classrooms. This approach was embraced and it became a significant influence on the project’s design as the project moved forward.

Project Highlights

Sustainability in Design

  • A site design was developed that incorporated interactive experimental gardens, on site stormwater treatment and rain water harvesting, and integration of an arboretum.
  • The project design is a model for energy efficiency and sustainable practices with a goal of achieving LEED certification.