University of Arizona Women's Plaza of Honor

The Women's Plaza of Honor highlights the stages of a woman's life and serves as an inviting urban oasis and gathering area, in addition to raising funds for an endowment for the University of Arizona Women's Studies Department. The project includes plazas, paving patterns, walkways, stairs, benches and seat walls, planting and irrigation, public art, architectural elements, and commemorative markers. The design also integrates several mature heritage trees into the concept. The Plaza is extensively used for gathering and discussion before, during, and after performances at the adjacent Centennial Hall. The legacy of Liba Wheat, WDG's founder, is commemorated with a leaf tile at the Women's Plaza. 

Lighting elements, a variety of surface and plant textures, and low water-use water features create interest for the visitors' senses both day and night.

Locally-crafted tile and metal work were incorporated into the project, which bring the local Sonoran character into the design and aid in the storytelling of the concept.