Red Butte Master Plan
Red Butte Garden’s Master Plan combines a thorough analysis of existing facilities and spaces with a vision for thoughtful and curated program expansion through renovations, additions, and entirely new structures. Major goals include expanding educational programming spaces, strengthening connections to the University of Utah research community, enhancing the visitor arrival experience, creating an ADA accessible route throughout the garden’s expansive and stunning topography, providing resources and spaces for garden staff, and ultimately connecting people with the beauty and diversity of nature. An extensive renovation and expansion of the original 1990s visitor center incorporates visitor focused programming, with additional office spaces and amenities for the garden staff. Additionally, a spacious event and lecture hall will occupy the site adjacent to the visitors center and serves the mission to elevate education and enhance connections to the university. The master plan also includes the conceptual design and programming of a new 25,000 SF education building, designed to be Living Building Certified and to provide a home for the outstanding educational programming at the garden.
In association with Studio Outside
Red Butte’s Master Plan calls for expanding the visitor experience onto a steep hillside and former quarry. Major goals included expanding educational programming spaces, adding visitor destinations, communicating a water and resource conservation message, sharing the beauty of the native Utah flora, and creating an ADA accessible route. The future Conservation Garden, Native Plant Garden, and Rock Garden carefully consider aesthetics, program, and circulation as they link to both existing and proposed areas, particularly the Red Butte Canyon and Terrace Gardens.
Red Butte Master Plan