Chestertown, MD

The rural setting and historic importance of this school guided the pace, scale, and objectives of its master plan.

Washington College was founded 220 years ago on Maryland's Eastern Shore. The grounds are defined by original buildings and mature hardwood trees, but buildings were added without consideration for the overall campus. Open spaces also lacked articulation of form and detail.

Other incentives for producing a master plan included a projected 35 percent increase in student enrollment over five years and the College's strategic initiatives calling for new facilities.

Planning concepts and proposed development reinforced the historic architecture and landscape character of the College and the town. New residence halls, a renovated and expanded dining facility, student recreation facilities, and expanded parking were among the recommendations. A significant part of the plan was restoration and care of existing facilities.

Completion: 1997
Size: 104 acres