Winona State University

Winona, MN | Education

ISG designed the Winona State University College of Business’ grounds to reflect the culture and community of the University.

Winona State University wanted to make the outdoor spaces that connect the campus embody the character of the College of Business.

Outdoor spaces play an important role in connecting users to university facilities and the whole campus to the larger community⁠—both literally in terms of access, and figuratively as it relates to a shared sense of place. To accurately capture the significance and meaning associated with the Winona State University College of Business campus and its outdoor space design, ISG consulted with essential university personnel, including the professors, dean, arboretum director, and sculpture artist to redevelop the campus landscape.

Featuring a pedestrian mall, several multi-use learning and collaboration spaces, and donor and alumni gallery, the College’s landscape blends education with natural aesthetics. The John Latsch sculpture multi-use space holds a limestone seat wall that can hold 20-25 people. It also displays a bust of Latsch, an informational plaque, and a vegetated backdrop. An ornamental river ribbon cut from 18-inch-wide colored and textured concrete runs the length of the pedestrian mall, which provides accessible walkway connections between Phelps and Somsen Halls. Decorative LED and security lighting is sprinkled strategically throughout, brightening gathering spaces and putting students and faculty at ease no matter when they walk through the space. With ample seating options at the café tables and ornamental benches, people are encouraged to study and collaborate in the open and engaging atmosphere. In its entirety, the landscaping reflects Winona State University’s history, culture, and educational needs.