University of San Diego Pedestrian Mall | San Diego, CA

The University of San Diego’s campus master plan called for the existing road running down the center of campus to be replaced by a pedestrian mall.  This plan is the final approved concept for the Spanish Renaissance-themed pedestrian mall connecting the existing Colachis Plaza to the east, and the proposed entry roundabout to the west. Thirty feet of grade change between the two ends of the mall created opportunities for tiered lawn areas, spilling water features, and multi-level outdoor classroom and seating areas.  

We worked closely with the faculty and students through carefully planned workshops to determine the specific needs and wants of the campus users.  The final design incorporates a central quad, which the campus lacked, traditional Spanish Renaissance-style fountains, and a variety of spaces for study, leisure, and socializing.  The major pedestrian spine runs along the south side of the mall to highlight the views of the featured buildings to the north.  The bosque of date palms and textured paving at the vehicular/pedestrian intersection on the east end of the mall doubles as a traffic-calming measure while maintaining a strong pedestrian connection to the existing plaza.