In its prior form, the courtyard was a multi-level amalgam of astro-turf and stairways with weak physical and visual connections to the school. A new ipé and steel deck was added, raised to match the interior floor level, so that connections to the interior could be accessible and greater in number. A new study space anchors one end, and new openings to the undergraduate lounge anchor the other. This new courtyard has become the locus for weekly gatherings of faculty and students.