Master Plan | Texas Woman's University

The Vision

Phase I of the master plan is done, and will serve as the basis on which new campus projects are implemented. Phase One of the master plan for Texas Woman's University provides an organizational framework designed to unify the 257-acre Denton campus with the flexibility to accommodate a 31% enrollment increase over the next 20 years. This plan serves as the basis on which new campus projects are implemented, allowing the continued celebration and enhancement of the university's distinctive identity and culture.

This report describes opportunities for growth aligned with the Texas Woman's University mission and needs of the local community. This holistic approach unifies the Denton campus, while balancing open spaces, development and infrastructure.

Denton Campus Before and After

The Goals

A young woman in safety gear working in a chemistry lab.

Evolving technology will play a large part in academic planning and needs. Texas Woman’s already has a robust online course catalog which is anticipated to grow. Integrated communication technology in classrooms was also cited as a need.

However, the biggest space planning impact will result from the need for more teaching lab spaces, additional research facilities and an expansion of related clinical programs. This plan examined departmental adjacencies to unify almost 1.5 million additional gross square feet (GSF) of academic area.

Two TWU students study on the Denton campus fountain.

An active lifestyle and a nutritious diet are key strategies to influence health and wellbeing. The HKS study Point of Design Decisions summarizes these concerns and design strategies to address obesity on college campuses. Safety and personal connections are also critical.

A Texas Woman’s diverse student population should be celebrated when designing spaces and activities that promote social connectedness. Spaces and programs that acknowledge all student needs, such as childcare, lactation and student support through existing resources like the library, counseling, student health and the Pioneer Center, should exist. These spaces should be designed and have a focus on the 14 patterns of biophilia, which is the design of the built environment that addresses issues of health and wellbeing.

Two women walking dogs on TWU's Denton campus.

Texas Woman’s faculty and staff advocate a “learn by doing” experiential learning environment where they provide students opportunities to engage in campus, workplace and community activities. These help shape their sense of purpose, their appreciation for the importance of building quality personal and professional relationships and their ability to address life’s challenges.

Bringing in the community, and engaging Denton with the campus, are also important in exploring opportunities to integrate on-campus social, recreational, athletic spaces, community gardens and a potential senior living community.

Wildflowers in a tree grove on TWU's Denton campus.

The 29,000 acre Lake Lewisville provides flood control and water conservation to Denton as part of the Trinity River watershed. A small existing creek creates a design opportunity for stream restoration.

Also, as part of the Grand Prairie ecoregion, natural oaks that have grown for hundreds of years on campus will remain and be preserved. Natural plantings will also restore animal habitats, prevent erosion, provide shade and reduce the urban heat island effect.

The Process

In three iterative phases, a consulting firm, HKS, Inc., supported Texas Woman's in the establishment of the goals and development priorities that will shape the next generation of the Denton campus. Our adaptable plan established fixed and flexible elements to accommodate the unknown and dynamic future needs. This plan provides structure for projects that can be adapted as more information becomes available in the future.

Our process is based on the following guiding principles:

Principle One

Create value through guiding flexible Denton campus growth with strategically planned open spaces.

Principle Two

Prioritize the Denton on-campus pedestrian experience with an auto-free core.

Principle Three

Reinforce the Denton campus identity, history and culture while preserving natural elements.

Phase One: Denton Campus

Three TWU students walking on campus on a sunny day.

A student’s university experience, in many ways, shapes their future life outcomes; the crucial choices one makes, from career choices to health and lifestyle decisions, have a bearing throughout one’s life.

Texas Woman’s goals resonate the need to engage the complete human into the Denton campus community.

Learn More About Phase One

A view of Old Main with clouds in the background.

Architecture Guidelines

Architectural guidelines were created to solidify Texas Woman's Denton campus identity and create unity. Architecture and landscaping should emphasize Denton campus entries and create a unique sense of place.

A treeline on TWU's Denton campus with the dorm towers in the background.

Keep TWU Green

As the Texas Woman's University Denton campus grows, we should do so responsibly, by conserving natural resources, integrating the topographical distinctiveness, preserving historic tree groves, and enhancing the creek and wetlands.

Natural elements also can build community engagement, reduce stress and promote sustainability.