MERIT AWARD

Represents superior accomplishment in the profession of landscape architecture.

Dixie Tech Campus

“Great attention to detail and impressive investment in landscape. Excellent use of planting and materials palette to define spaces.”
— ASLA Prairie Gateway Awards Jury

The campus design concept is focused on integrating the architecture with the site and taking full advantage of its prominent location.

SUMMARY

The Dixie Tech campus overlooks St. George from the technology hub Tech Ridge, once home to a regional airport. Its state-of-the-art facilities are situated on the edge of the bluff, with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape. The transformation from airport runway to educational beacon of opportunity was made complete through the thoughtful design of the campus. 

The inspiring campus design is key to Dixie Tech changing the perception of technical education. The attractive setting helped create a rise in enrollment that in turn provides an increase of well-trained essential workers to the state’s expanding job market. The Dixie Tech campus clearly demonstrates the grand potential of the institution and the students who pursue their education there.

PROJECT NARRATIVE

Design Context:

  • The campus design concept focused on integrating the architecture with the site and taking full advantage of its prominent location. A student’s experience while at campus is edifying. At the top of the bluff, they encounter a feeling of accomplishment. The elevated plaza – an abstraction of the surrounding geology – provides inspiring views and a unique place for outdoor learning or studying.

  • The verdant campus is symbolic of the vitality of the school. Lines through the landscape converging on the center of the building express the pivotal role of education in the lives of the students.

  • This first Dixie Tech building has quickly become an iconic and special place. The scenery and interesting campus design attracts many visitors. It’s not uncommon to see portraits being taken at the campus in the evenings or to see travelers stop by to take in the unique experience. The campus design captures that excitement and casts the Tech Ridge in its best light.

Design Value to the Client, Community, and Other Designers:

  • The Dixie Tech campus is an example of the high value landscape architecture can bring to an educational institution.

  • The “x” within the landscape concept was derived from the mission statement of Dixie Tech as a crossroads for all who enter as they make a transition from education to employment.

  • As the first project in the overall master plan for the school it presents a higher design standard for Dixie Tech and other technical school campuses in Utah.

  • The campus is also a source of inspiration for other designers and community members, demonstrating the potential beauty of water wise and climate adapted plants.

  • The planting design, material selection and responsiveness to the context of the site help blend the project with the site and its surroundings to compliment the St. George area.