H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens in the Arboretum at Penn State
University Park, PA
Opened to the public in 2009, the H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens in the Arboretum at Penn State has become a place of beauty where students and community members can go for renewal, celebration, and discovery.
Our work on the project began with developing the Master Plan, the goal of which was to create vibrant educational center and a first-class amenity contributing to the quality of life on campus and enhancing the image of the University. Pashek + MTR Founding Partner Missy Marshall led a multi-disciplinary design team throughout implementation of the $6 million Phase One project.
The first phase of development established the Arboretum’s presence along a major campus thoroughfare and protected valuable groundwater resources. Event spaces were developed throughout the Gardens to maximize opportunities for generating revenue and to provide new venues for University gatherings. We worked with PSU faculty to develop planting themes that are not only beautiful, but also teach concepts such as taxonomic families and plant evolution.
Pashek + MTR continues to work with the Arboretum to expand their offerings in keeping with the Master Plan. The Botanic Gardens have become a popular destination on campus, and continue to grow successfully year after year.
