Last updated: June 5, 2024
Place
Denison University
Olmsted Archives
Quick Facts
In 1916, Olmsted Brothers were hired to prepare proposals for the anticipated student population growth at Denison University. With John Charles Olmsted taking the lead, and working closely with architect Ernest Flagg, it took two years to create their General Plan for the University. John Charles wanted buildings to be in harmony with the area’s dramatic elevation changes, so he created a series of terraces along existing curves, placing the academic quad at the heart of the campus.
After John Charles’ death in 1920, Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. and Edward Whiting took over the design. They implemented retaining walls and bridges in road planning to adjust to the area’s steep land. With expansion continuing even today, they are always respectful of John Charles’ balanced arrangement.
Source: "Denison University," The Cultural Landscape Foundation
For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr
After John Charles’ death in 1920, Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. and Edward Whiting took over the design. They implemented retaining walls and bridges in road planning to adjust to the area’s steep land. With expansion continuing even today, they are always respectful of John Charles’ balanced arrangement.
Source: "Denison University," The Cultural Landscape Foundation
For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr