Alumni Park – University of Wisconsin-Madison

Client

State of Wisconsin

Location

Madison, Wisconsin

Size

1.3 AC

Completed

2017

Nestled between the Memorial Union, the Red Gym and One Alumni Place, in the heart of the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, is where you will find the iconic Alumni Park. This serene landmark, built to celebrate the University and its graduates, is opened year-round and provides a place of repose, education and recreation. It serves as more than just a beautiful green space, the park is a museum, art gallery and share-house for the memories and achievements created during the 171 years since the University has been founded. The Park tells a story of what it means to be a Badger.

Alumni Park was constructed in conjunction with Phase II of the Memorial Union and is situated above a new underground loading facility that serves the Union, Red Gym, Pyle Center and One Alumni Place. The Park’s exhibit design is centered around celebrating the Wisconsin idea. Through the expert craftsmanship of Cor-Ten steel panels, granite, 3D printed resin sculpture and bronze sculpture, the graphic and written storytelling of the achievements of Wisconsin Alumni comes to life during the day and night.

A commissioned statue of Bucky Badger entitled Well Read, stands as a beacon of pride at the foot of the Park and has become a “must-see” destination for all who visit.

Designed in collaboration with SmithGroup and Ralph Appelbaum Associates.

Awards

  • Alumni Park
  • ACEC Wisconsin Engineering Excellence Award, Best of State
  • InBusiness Magazine Commercial Design Award, Project of the Year, Best New Development or Renovation-Mixed Use, Best Outdoor Landscaping Project
  • Daily Reporter’s Top Projects of 2017 Award
  • ASID Wisconsin Design Excellence Award, Historic Preservation – Bronze