Erica Grohol, Landscape Designer at Wendel Companies, closes out the evening with a thoughtful exploration of the spaces we often overlook, the in-between. Focusing on a courtyard transformation at Buffalo Public School 99, Erica highlights how residual spaces, when approached with intention, can become some of the most dynamic and meaningful environments in our cities.

Landscape architecture, she explains, isn’t always about creating something new, it’s often about rediscovering what already exists and unlocking its potential. In this case, the courtyard at School 99 was an unprogrammed, underutilized space surrounded by classrooms, hallways, and shared school functions. While other outdoor areas served clear recreational purposes, this space presented an opportunity to do something different: to create a flexible, engaging environment that supports learning, exploration, and connection.

Erica walks through the design process, beginning with careful observation of the site, its light patterns, viewsheds, circulation, and relationship to the surrounding building. From there, collaboration became central. Working closely with educators, students, and partners like Play Studio, the team engaged stakeholders in imagining how the space could be used, not just in theory, but through active, on-site participation and visualization.

The result is a layered, multifunctional courtyard that balances structure with flexibility. Designed to extend the classroom outdoors, the space includes areas for gathering, learning, play, and quiet reflection. Native plantings introduce seasonal change and ecological awareness, while modular elements allow for adaptability and student ownership. Importantly, the design avoids over-programming, leaving room for creativity, discovery, and evolving use over time.

Erica also highlights the unique challenges of constructing within tight, enclosed spaces, where logistics, scale, and access require creative problem-solving. Despite these constraints, the project came together through thoughtful phasing and coordination, culminating in a space that feels both intentional and organic.

At its core, this project is about more than a courtyard, it’s about redefining how we see and use the overlooked spaces around us. Erica’s work demonstrates that even the smallest, most residual sites can have a profound impact when designed with care, collaboration, and a focus on community.