Southwestern College Botanical Garden

The renovation of the Southwestern Botanical Garden was focused on “A GARDEN OF POSSIBILITIES” and was created with four core principles: education, teaching and training, sustainability, and fostering a strong connection to the campus community. These pillars transform the garden into a dynamic space for learning, growth, and collaboration. The project centered on preserving the existing garden’s specimen trees, particularly a 50-year-old Southern Live Oak, which became the central feature, guiding the entire layout and design of the renovated botanic garden. Today, the renovated 4-acre site provides essential hands-on learning opportunities for students pursuing degrees in horticultural related fields. The new buildings, outdoor classrooms and laboratories, community gardens, nursery display and sales areas, and outdoor community event spaces are welcoming additions to the campus. The garden is also open to the public and provides great spaces for the community to explore and connect with the College. The project also reflects the College’s strong commitment to ensuring inclusive access to all its spaces by providing one-story buildings without the need for elevators or stairs, while carefully designed ramps and walks seamlessly connecting with the primary pathways. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone, regardless of physical ability, has access to the garden.