Benesch Partners with Sculptor Peri Gutierrez to Create UConn’s “Reflection Garden”

STORRS, CT – Earlier this year, final renderings of Reflection Garden, a new outdoor space at the heart of University of Connecticut’s (UConn) campus, were revealed by the university. Benesch is partnering with sculptor Peri Gutierrez to create a reflective space that fosters tolerance and open-mindedness among students and features Gutierrez’s first public art installation.

The idea for the space was initiated by two unnamed alumni donors following an antisemitic hate crime that occurred at this location on campus. Benesch, as the landscape architecture team on call for UConn’s campus, was tasked with developing this important space.

The sculpture, titled “Reflection,” will feature three stainless steel columns at the center of a spiral-shaped lawn. The design also incorporates famous quotes integrated into radial steel panels on custom granite seat walls, and a variety of trees, shrubs and hedges. Benesch is providing design, an existing conditions analysis, site planning, stormwater management, utility design and survey services.

The sculptures, mounted on granite pedestals with integrated lighting, were meticulously designed to have a seamless appearance with no visible screws.

“This project is a great opportunity to showcase Benesch’s human design,” said Benesch Project Manager Ryan Deane, PLA. “To accomplish that, we needed to be able to work closely with the team throughout the process. We decided to create a living 3D model of the park that enables us to better collaborate and make informed design decisions together.”

The project team continues to work closely with the artist, the university and the donors to bring the vision for Reflection Garden to life. This collaboration aims to create a welcoming and inclusive sanctuary for all who visit and is expected to open during the upcoming school year.