The Architecture of a Master Plan
Rendering of a master plan for The Peck School.
Architects possess a unique understanding of how minor details can shape a broader perspective. We grasp the intricacies involved in designing a building. Beyond that, as designers we recognize the significant impact these details can have on a larger scale.
During this planning process, architects leverage this unique perspective. We serve as the bridge connecting an organization’s current state to its desired future. This process is what we call creating a master plan.
A master plan is a personalized and feasible long-range solution. It facilitates growth and development for the future of an organization.
Rather than planning for current necessities, a master plan involves studying habits, collecting data, and anticipating future needs. By understanding goals, architects and planners can create a custom-built environment that holds a lasting influence. Master Plans often prove especially advantageous for projects with large numbers of stakeholders. Some examples that KSQ has worked with are school campuses, colleges and universities, and medical organizations.
Why a Master Plan?
Ultimately, master planning involves translating large goals into attainable milestones through organized phases. Crafting a master plan empowers an organization to forecast project costs, ensuring timely and effective allocation of necessary funds. Through meticulous assessments, our architects can discern the specific needs of an organization. We use the data we gather to collaborate with clients to develop strategies for meeting those needs.
For an architect, master planning is a process rooted in attentive listening. We recognize that each client comes with unique needs and aspirations that demand a tailored approach to fulfillment.
Our architects dedicate time to thoroughly comprehend our clients' objectives. This happens by asking insightful questions, studying past plans, and engaging with stakeholders. Our focus extends beyond solving immediate challenges; it centers on realizing objectives for the future.
It's important to consistently monitor and adjust a master plan. We work with our clients to maintain masterplans, regularly reassessing and adapting them as needs evolve.
Master Planning in the Context of Student Housing
A Housing Master Plan is a long-range planning document that typically covers a 10-to-15-year period. It provides a roadmap for programmatic and physical changes to enhance housing, as well as residential and campus life.
This plan guides the University in reinvesting in its housing system. The master plan offers crucial details such as target populations, assessments and recommendations for current physical conditions, and preferred housing types. The plan will also include financial requirements for implementing proposed changes.
Effective planning is comprehensive. A strong planning team engages with representatives from various critical departments, including Student Affairs, Facilities, Transportation, Finance, Dining, and Admissions, among others. Having discussions with one department often leads to the identification of additional departments providing valuable insights.
At the end of the process, a strong housing master plan will offer guidance for campus development over the next several years. It will aim to provide the richest student experience possible.
Campus Master Plan Case Study: Texas Christian University
From 1997 to 2019 KSQ Design has transformed 1.4 million square feet of Texas Christian University’s student life facilities. Princeton Review recognized TCU's residence halls on its list of 10 Best College Dorms.
TCU's student housing master plan has longevity. Each building is not only high quality but creates long-term impacts on student success. The design intentionally focuses on community and connection and has transformed the university into a true residential campus. This has resulted in a 15.3% increase in student retention and a 20.9% increase in students who graduate.
Master planning with KSQ is more than strategic solutions. Our architects design buildings that nourish the well-being of the entire organization. Our commitment extends beyond addressing challenges; we actively pursue goals that will help organizations flourish.
