University of Texas at Austin

At the end of World War II, the University signed a lease agreement, with option to buy, for a surplus federal magnesium plant in the northwest section of Austin. It agreed to use the original 402 acres and 29 buildings to “extend and develop the research function of the University for the benefit of the public.”

Today, UT owns the property that has become prime real estate in the center of the city's high-tech corridor, surrounded by the most populated area in the county.

In 1999, a University committee was formed to develop a master plan for what is now the J.J. Pickle Research Campus. The group was charged with recommending the most strategic use of the property. Ayers/Saint/Gross was retained as design consultant, and ultimately a vision emerged to cultivate multidisciplinary academic and research programs to support existing facilities, with potential for growth.

From the undeveloped stream valleys to formal landscaped gardens, the spaces are planned for public activity, community congregation, and private interaction. Open spaces have priority. Quads and streets are defined by their size and geometry, and buildings gain their identities by overlooking these public areas and, in turn, giving them definition.

With proper planning and investment, development at the Pickle campus is creating engineering, science, and technology partnerships with the private sector, government, and other research institutions in. Its location, size, and infrastructure also make it a dramatic contribution to the University's growth.

ASG was design architect in association with Carter & Burgess, Inc.

Completion: 2002
Size: 382 acres