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Case Study:
Rambler Columbus  

Elevated rooftop living and modern landscape design adjacent to The Ohio State University.

Student Housing, Columbus OH

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The Rambler Columbus is a modern student living complex located just off Lane Avenue near The Ohio State University. The project features vibrant rooftop courtyards and a cohesive landscape design that complements the building's clean, linear architecture. Our team was responsible for installing the exterior landscaping and all five rooftop courtyards, including one with an outdoor kitchen and pool, creating spaces for both relaxation and socialization. The design emphasizes greenery, recreation, and elevated student living, providing a high-end apartment experience steps from campus.

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The five rooftop courtyards were particularly challenging, requiring careful planning, staging, and manual installation of all materials due to crane limitations and no heavy equipment allowed on the roofs. Ground-level landscaping included 6,000 SF of pavers and over 4,400 plants, tying the entire property together with a modern, green aesthetic. This project demonstrates expertise in commercial landscape contracting, rooftop courtyard installation, and high-end student housing landscaping in Columbus, Ohio.

This project earned a 2025 Gold Award from the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), recognizing exceptional craftsmanship, operational excellence, and dedication to resident experience and community spaces.

Rooftop Living Reinvented at Rambler Columbus

A look at the construction and final design of five unique rooftop courtyards at Rambler Columbus, where modern landscape design and community-focused outdoor living come together.

Key Project Highlights

  • Five Rooftop Courtyards: Including one with outdoor kitchen, pool, composite decking, and 15 custom wood planters, creating versatile spaces for relaxation, entertainment, and gameday gatherings.

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  • Extensive Manual Installation: All rooftop materials installed by hand, including 13,000 SF of pedestal pavers, 2,000 LF of curbing, 750 CY of lightweight soil, 5,600 plants, and 600 SF of composite decking.

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  • Ground-Level Landscaping: 6,000 SF of pavers and over 4,400 plants tying the property together with a cohesive, modern design.

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  • Complex Logistics & Coordination: Limited crane access, tight rooftop constraints, multiple trades operating simultaneously, and a high-traffic site on Lane Avenue.

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  • Sustainable Design & Irrigation: Complete irrigation system installed to ensure long-term health of rooftop planting beds and green spaces.

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  • High-End Student Experience: Outdoor spaces designed for both quiet relaxation and active recreation, enhancing resident wellness and engagement.

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  • Attention to Detail & Quality: Every element hand-installed and carefully protected, ensuring long-lasting beauty and functionality.

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Need Commercial Landscape Design?

Let EMI’s Design & Build team transform your commercial property with expert landscape architecture and installations, from serene natural spaces to functional hardscaped areas—and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for vibrant green landscapes or durable, functional outdoor environments, our team creates tailored solutions that meet your unique needs.

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Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today to get started on your custom landscape design and build project.

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