Accepted concept

After asking for more information, she told me that most of the residents in the halls were of an asian descent. After doing a bit more research, I came across this photo of a Singapore white plumeria. I really liked the shape and redrew the design with this as the main inspiration.

images taken from: http://flowers.shopping.officelive.com/images/singpore1_908sp.jpg
 http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3660/3552367950_e881671639.jpg and http://extras.mnginteractive.com/live/media/site210/2009/1127/20091127_110457_697px-Plumeria_(Frangipani)_300.jpg 

When she saw this design she really liked it. Although the concept still needs to be teased out and developed, I think that this will give a character to the courtyard which it lacks as well as add some much needed greenery to the area.

Not all of the umbrella-like structure will be covered with greenery, some parts will be solid in order to serve as protection from rain or wind. The benefit of this design is that the tree will not be moved and will instead surround and complement it. Better images will be made soon.