Beyond Bricks and Books: Exploring the Quality of Campus Open Spaces

Abstract

The impact of physical landscapes on people's health is widely acknowledged, yet research on open spaces within institutional campuses is limited. This Master’s report delves into this gap by evaluating four campus open spaces at the University of Toronto – St. George and Queen’s University. The study aims to address the following objectives: 1) Determine policy directions within the campus masterplans and applicable municipal policies with respect to open space, 2) Utilize an evaluation framework to assess the quality of existing open space within the two higher education institutions through post-occupancy evaluation methods, and 3) Provide recommendations to improve and better incorporate open spaces within higher education institutions. Utilizing a mixed-methods, collective case study design, the research utilizes an evaluation framework adapted from Damone (2019) to assess two park sites and two street environments across both universities. At the University of Toronto – St. George, St. George Street as well as Back Campus and Hart House Circle were selected, while at Queen’s University, University Avenue as well as Nixon and Benedickson Fields were selected. Each of the 21 criteria was assessed with a Likert scale and accompanying notes provided by a variety of observers. Results indicate that the park sites generally outscored street environments across most criteria, with the University of Toronto performing better overall than Queen’s University. Notably, Accessibility of Environment and Safety sections receive high scores due to their central campus location and commitment from both institutions to such in their CMPs. Engagement with the Environment and Access to Nature criteria vary, with park sites generally performing better. With the Community Engagement and Amenities sections also demonstrating lower scores for street environments compared to park sites. Both universities were recommended to further collaboration with their respective municipalities and develop urban forest management plans and consolidate land resources as well as establish living labs to catalyze innovative open space development. For Queen's University in particular, it is recommended that along University Avenue, planters and trees be placed adjacent to the edge of the road, acting as both a visual and physical buffer. As well as throughout Nixon and Benedickson fields, a variety of adaptable seating options should be provided to accommodate programmable as well as passive interaction spaces. While at the University of Toronto - St. George it is recommended that along St. George Street, a variety of seating options be provided and that bulletin or notice boards be placed throughout Back Campus Fields along with low impact outdoor fitness equipment. Overall, this study underscores the significance of open spaces in campus design and provides valuable insights into their assessment and improvement. Implementing recommendations derived from this research could enhance campus environments, fostering cultural integration and improving the mental well-being of students, faculty, and staff.