The Green Spine: Reimagining the Central Campus of North Dakota State University Through Social Green Spaces and Pedestrian Connections

Author

• Lydia Ham

Files

Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Landscape Architecture

College

Arts and Sciences

Department

Landscape Architecture, Disaster Resiliency & Emergency Management (LADREM)

Faculty Advisor

Anna Maria Visilia

Studio Coordinator

Jay Kost

Faculty Chair

Dominic Fischer

Publisher

North Dakota State University

Rights

NDSU policy 190.6.2

URI

https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf

Abstract

This thesis studies how landscape architecture can reimagine university campuses as connected, flexible, and functional environments that enhance how people will interact with the outdoor environment. Focusing on North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota, the project focuses on adding green space where there are currently underutilized open spaces. Key principles of successful campus landscapes focus on including well defined circulation systems, spatial variety, and multifunctional use. Where research has developed three focus zones including Bison Green, Prairie Common, and Herd Crossing to show how integrated landscape systems can support movement, learning, and recreation while still maintaining an overall campus identity.

Recommended Citation

Ham, Lydia, "The Green Spine: Reimagining the Central Campus of North Dakota State University Through Social Green Spaces and Pedestrian Connections" (2026). Landscape Architecture Theses. 4.
https://digitalcommons.ndsu.edu/landscape-architecture-theses/4