Texas A&M University Dallas AgriLife Research Center
Location: Dallas, TX
Architect: VAI Architects / Flad Architects
Civil Engineer: Pacheco Kock
Client: Texas A&M AgriLife
Size: 8.2 Acres
The Texas A&M University AgriLife Research Center in Dallas is a regional hub for agricultural inquiry and testing. As such, Coleman & Associates was tasked with creating a landscape experience that would augment this purpose. Abundant sun exposure on the site meant that many native Texas plants would thrive, but irrigating those plants and upholding Texas A&M’s water-conscious goals would be challenging. The formidable scale of the campus also required the landscape design to have significant presence. C&A responded to these challenges with a design that is expansive and dynamic while remaining inhabitable and informative.
Holistically, the site functions as an “inspiration garden” showcasing plant varieties that can be used in North Texas landscapes. The campus’s sweeping front plaza is punctuated by a series of circular raised beds that sustain turf grasses under development by Texas A&M Agrilife, while multiple tree varieties and a robust palette of native Texas plants lend interest and further designate space. Additional features include rain gardens, manipulated topography to buffer road noise, beautified entry drive and signage, and wayfinding to assist campus navigation.
