In today's educational landscape, universities are increasingly resembling small cities, extending far beyond lecture halls with expansive infrastructure, diverse functions and activities that span both day and night.
The emergence of remote learning and a greater emphasis on student well-being have underscored the necessity for versatile outdoor spaces. These areas are no longer just scenic backdrops but essential parts of the campus ecosystem, offering settings that spark creativity, encourage connections, and support mental health.
Rethinking university spaces in the hybrid learning era
Significant changes in higher education in the post-COVID years have reshaped how students learn and interact. The advent of remote learning has made physical campus spaces more dynamic and versatile, with Universities increasingly designing areas that are flexible enough to support both organised events and spontaneous activities. A space that serves as an outdoor lecture ‘hall’ during the day may transform into a social hub at night—a place for students to unwind and connect.
Flexible furniture plays a crucial role in this transformation. Modular, tiered benches can shift from formal lecture settings to casual social hubs, while smaller private seating areas support focused work and collaboration. At TCU's new Arnold Hall, home to the Anne Burnett Marion School of Medicine, a series of outdoor picnic-style tables and versatile seating exemplify this approach, creating inviting spaces that foster informal learning and social interaction.
The role of outdoor spaces in student wellbeing
Outdoor spaces are vital for promoting student wellbeing and mental health. They provide opportunities for students to decompress, connect with nature, and find moments of calm. They also provide a much-needed opportunity to disconnect from technology, alleviating cognitive overload and encouraging students to re-engage with nature. By relieving stress and promoting mental clarity, these environments create a healthier, more supportive campus experience.
The simple presence of thoughtfully designed outdoor furniture further enhances these environments, creating inviting places where students can take a break, recharge, and connect with peers. For example, modular seating arrangements integrated with planters, or curved benches that complement the natural landscape, enhance the experience by bringing students closer to nature while fostering both individual reflection and group interaction. This connection to the environment supports well-being while strengthening campus culture by cultivating a sense of community and belonging.
The Roche Pocket Park at Switzerland’s Roche Kaiseraugst global campus exemplifies this vision, using parametrically designed paved areas, strategically placed trees, and adaptable seating to create a multifunctional space that serves as a lounge, transit area, and event venue, providing essential outdoor respite while establishing a striking campus identity.
Durable and sustainable design for the future
As outdoor spaces play an increasingly vital role in higher education, universities have a unique opportunity to lead by example. Campuses should function as living classrooms, immersing students—the future leaders of sustainable design—in the tangible impact of responsible, long-lasting, and environmentally conscious choices. By integrating sustainability into the built environment, universities provide real-world examples that deepen the connection between design, durability, and ecological responsibility.
A key aspect of this commitment is ensuring the quality, durability, and longevity of outdoor spaces. Outdoor furniture must be built to withstand the elements—season after season, year after year—while preserving both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Weather-resistant seating and tables, crafted from sustainable materials such as hardwood, stainless steel, and recycled products, not only create resilient, high-performing spaces but also reflect the values of future landscape designers, reinforcing the importance of sustainability in every detail.
Prioritising accessibility in education landscapes
It’s essential that outdoor learning spaces are designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all students, regardless of ability, can engage with and benefit from these environments. This means providing wide pathways to accommodate mobility aids, ensuring ergonomic seating for all body types, and incorporating ADA-compliant furniture that prioritises comfort and usability.
From rounded edges that enhance comfort to appropriate table heights and clearances, thoughtful design details make a significant impact. Wheelchair-accessible sides and zones create a welcoming environment for gatherings of all abilities, while customisable features—such as alternate backrest angles—allow spaces to cater to a diverse range of users, ensuring that every student has a place to learn, collaborate, and relax.
As universities continue to evolve, the role of outdoor spaces in shaping student experiences, fostering well-being, and promoting sustainable design has never been more critical. By prioritising adaptability, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility, campuses can create dynamic environments that support both academic and social life. These thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces not only enhance learning and collaboration but ultimately serve as lasting examples of innovation and sustainability for the campuses of tomorrow.
Discover our diverse range of seating and table collections designed for campuses, or read more about our ADA-compliant furniture in our article “All are welcome – integrating equity and inclusivity in public spaces.”