The renovation of Blakeley Hall, a residence for second-year students at Tufts University, offered an opportunity to reimagine the courtyard and surrounding landscape. Our team at Crowley Cottrell transformed a formal space with prominent walls, stairs, and an excess of paths into an inviting gathering area focused on accessibility. The design regrades the courtyard to allow for a new accessible entrance that features a sunken terrace with tables and chairs, as well as granite seat walls immersed in planting. Our design simplifies the circulation by removing excess paving and replacing impervious surfaces with green space. The resulting open lawn, surrounded by shrubs and dotted with trees, creates an inviting space for students to gather. The main entry of the residence hall accommodates a newly designed building entrance with a terrace, plantings, and ample bike parking.