Harvard Medical School’s (HMS) Accessible Pathways project is a key initiative in improving site accessibility across its historic campus. Beginning in 2014, HMS engaged MDS to study ADA upgrades and develop concepts for integrating new exterior ramps at multiple locations. MDS is continuing to work with HMS to design and implement these improvements.

The first ramp to be constructed connects the lower and upper terraces of the historic Quad in front of Gordon Hall, HMS’s main administration building. Our design maintains the visual symmetry of the existing stairway. We reused much of the existing stone, supplemented with stone from the original Vermont quarry as needed, to preserve character of the Quad and give the new ramp the appearance of always having been there. The project was supported and approved by the Boston Landmarks Commission, the city’s historic preservation agency.