80 Texas A&M International University Introduction The following landscape guidelines are a set of objectives for both hardscape (sidewalks, plazas, furnishings, trellises, etc.) and softscape (trees, shrubs, groundcovers, grasses) improvements that work in synchronicity to stitch a campus together to create vibrant, safe, and sustainable outdoor places. These landscape guidelines establish and outline the materials, amenities, programs, and details that will support the daily activities and future growth of TAMIU. The intent of these landscape guidelines is to set up a reference vocabulary that builds a stronger campus identity and is consistent across the broader campus and future development. 1. Existing Tree Preservation and Planting Assessment The TAMIU campus has a healthy framework of existing trees, native plantings, and open grassy areas. This framework will be built upon when new infrastructure is created. Whenever new projects are considered, existing trees should be preserved when feasible. Additionally, native and low-water use plantings should be installed with the goal of creating a diverse planting palette that works with the micro-climates created when new structures are erected. These landscape plantings should include plants that support pollinators, are adaptive, and also provide seasonal interest with a strong backbone of evergreen species. The installation of new turf should be limited and only used as a ground cover or for open lawn areas within quads and plazas. The Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, existing Photo credit: TAMIU Gallery (online) Existing tree preservation at outdoor plaza, Texas Tech University. Photo credit: Coleman & Associates 2. Softscape for an Arid Environment The TAMIU campus is fortunate to have an existing landscape with mature trees and plantings, many along a strong network of sidewalks and central promenades with a prominent central spine featuring an acequia water feature that provides a cooling element in an arid landscape. The updated Master Plan will further enhance this existing landscape by continuing the planting of native trees, focusing on planting low water-use, native shrubs, and groundcovers, and preserving undisturbed land in its natural state to the benefit of indigenous flora and fauna of this region. Strengthening the softscape spaces across campus, particularly in the beforementioned landscape focus areas, improves the campus’s “first impression” of both enrolled and potential students and visitors. Therefore, the Updated Recommended Plant List in Appendix A builds upon the previous TAMIU’s Master Plan 2004-2014 Recommended Plant Material List with a new set of specified plantings that are well suited for these campus ecoregions. Planting for and arid environment, UT El Paso Photo credit: Ten Eyck Landscape Architects Planting at rain garden at E-Quad, Texas A&M University Photo credit: Coleman & Associates 4 - DESIGN GUIDELINES Landscape Guidelines
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