University campuses function like small cities; dynamic, evolving, and deeply connected to the communities they serve.
McAdams brings a holistic approach to higher education infrastructure and campus planning; partnering with colleges and universities to design resilient systems that support academic, residential, athletic, and research environments. Our multidisciplinary teams integrate civil engineering, water resources, transportation, and landscape architecture to create flexible, future-ready campuses that balance infrastructure reliability with placemaking and identity. Through a collaborative and forward-thinking process, we help institutions navigate growth, sustainability, and long-term campus evolution.
Expansion is strategic and continuous. Our master plans address phased growth across academic, residential, research, and athletic zones. The planning horizon preserves utility over decades, while maintaining flexibility for changing pedagogy, research, and technology.
McAdams designs for highly complex, layered systems. Campus’ are district-based and resilient; while providing utility for academic and research centers, housing, integrated stormwater infrastructure, and mutli-modal transportation access.
Our safety features balance openness with accessibility. Campus’ remain public facing and accessible beyond class hours to staff and students while prioritizing layered security elements such as visibility, path lighting + emergency call towers (blue light systems), and zoning rather than fencing.
We focus a strong emphasis on placemaking, campus identity, and recruitment and retention. Outdoor spaces designed serve multiple roles that may include social, academic, and event-based activities while buildings are designed for adaptability, mixed-uses, and long-term reinvestment.
UNC Chapel Hill, Kenan Stadium
Chapel Hill, NC
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NC State University, Venture Courtyards
Raleigh, NC
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They are willing to go the extra step to assure project success and strongly recommend McAdams for any of their service offerings.
Lynn Swank / NC State University
UNC Wilmington, Outdoor Fields + Facilities
Wilmington, NC
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UNC Charlotte, Belk Plaza
Charlotte, NC
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