University at Buffalo Resilient Campus

IMPACT Studio served as an advisor to the Stoss Landscape Urbanism and Höweler Yoon Architecture team for the University at Buffalo Resilient Campus competition, supporting a climate-positive and adaptive vision for the campus. The proposal emphasizes strategic depaving to reduce impervious surfaces, mitigate flooding, and unlock space for ecological restoration. Replacing asphalt with diverse, native landscapes enhances biodiversity, improves stormwater management, and creates more comfortable outdoor environments.

Central to the approach is a flexible campus adaptation framework that can evolve over time—responding to changing climate conditions, funding realities, and campus needs. Rather than a fixed master plan, the strategy offers a phased, scenario-based roadmap that enables incremental implementation while maintaining long-term resilience goals. This dynamic approach ensures the campus can continuously adapt, transforming into a living system that sequesters carbon, supports ecosystem health, and fosters a resilient academic community.