The Ohio State University Mirror Lake Columbus, Ohio

Services Provided

Master Plan
Landscape Architecture
Design Development
Construction Documents 

People Involved

Brian Kinzelman
Rick Espe
Matt McGrath
Karen McCoy
John Petrushka
Lisl Kotheimer
Marco Stack-Simone
Ellen Puckett

Awards

2019 Ohio Chapter ASLA Honor Award

The University's historic and celebrated campus landmark transformed through the engagement of the campus community

Centrally located in the heart of The Ohio State University campus, few locations are as iconic or rich in tradition as Mirror Lake and the surrounding Hollow. Dating back to the 1870s, the sweet water spring is responsible for the location of the University and the subsequent spring-fed lake has since been a special and memorable part of campus.

The shape of Mirror Lake and its source of water have evolved over time, but maintenance and infrastructure necessitated a more sustainable vision for the University’s historic lake.

MKSK led a design and implementation process that prioritized diligent research and collection of public opinion to preserve the lake’s historic, social, and cultural significance. The project began with a master plan process, which MKSK collaborated on with Nelson Byrd Woltz, which led to the detailed design and construction of a landscape that emphasizes safety, sustainability, operations, and aesthetics.

Respite spaces around the lake include the new Lakeside Terrace with the historic spring-inspired grotto fountain, the North Belvedere, the Pomerene Hall Terrace and Overlook, and Neil Avenue Overlook and Pavilion. Each space provides different settings and viewsheds to enjoy the lake. Materials were chosen to reflect and complement the surrounding historic structures. MKSK led the design and detailing process of these new site architectural features.
 

Through a separate renovation project of Pomerene Hall, the opportunity was presented to re-grade the site and create a new collector walkway at the east side of the building, providing connection between the South Campus Dorms through the Mirror Lake District to The Oval. The redesigned pathway network improves ADA accessibility and is enhanced with a series of ribbon benches uniquely designed to align with the curving walkways. Areas were designated for donor pavers to provide opportunity for OSU alumni to share their memories of Mirror Lake.

The Mirror Lake District revitalizes an important University landmark and its connections to the surrounding campus, and reaffirms its role as a place of respite, memory, and tradition in the heart of The Ohio State University’s campus.