Brown Courtyard

HBU’s student center and courtyard were badly damaged by Hurricane Ike.  Lauren Griffith Associates worked with the staff and donor family to understand the elements of the space that were important to the university’s culture so that the courtyard could resume its role as the heart of the campus.

Two outdated fountains were recreated as low, sleek water features with simple arc jets creating a pleasant splash. Polished black granite fountain copings and planter walls repeat the crisp black of the upper loggia balustrade.  Rows of River Birches planted in decomposed surround the fountains in the lower courtyard, creating a more casual gathering space for the movable tables and chairs. An elevated ipe wood deck covered by a contemporary trellis at one end of the courtyard creates a flexible space for performances, weddings or outdoor classes. Masses of colorful, seasonal flowers balance the other end of the lower courtyard and frame the ramp to the upper court, where large umbrellas shade more movable tables and chairs adjacent to the student center.

Lauren Griffith Associates provided design and construction administration services for the courtyard which was completed in September, 2011. Studio Red Architects provided architectural services for the trellis in conjunction with renovating the student center.