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| One of the most beautiful public spaces I know of is The Lawn at the University of Virginia |
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| It was designed by Thomas Jefferson and built in 1827. When it was first designed, the University of Virginia was a very small institution and all of the key buildings of the University were grouped around the lawn helping to define it. Today the University has grown greatly and few functions of the University remain on this old space, but the lawn still keeps its vigour and magic. It is a simple rectangle of grass that slopes in gentle terraces towards the distant view. It is surrounded by a series of smallish buildings on the sides and a larger more imposing one at its head, The Rotunda. All of these structures are connected by a small scale colonnade. The pavilions are all of similar scale, but Jefferson endeavoured to make each one a little different, giving it personality. There are several large trees on the lawn providing shade and contributing much to its scale. In 1899, a building was added at its lower end which was regrettable because this closed the view towards the horizon. When I go there I always try to imagine it as Jefferson designed it, with its open end. Much of the beauty of the space comes from its proportions and its simplicity. It is still a favourite gathering place for the students at the University of Virginia and one of the great public spaces in the world. Cesar Pelli New Haven, Connecticut |
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