The plaza functions not only as a gathering space and outdoor classroom, but also as a seasonal clock: the gnomon's shadow marks seasonal proximity to solstices and equinoxes. John Lyle served as the landscape architect, but passed away prior to the building's completion. The John Lyle Sun Plaza is located at the south entrance to the building.
Stone benches situated around the site are also made from carved stones that were once part of Oberlin's Conservatory of Music. Salvaged carved stones, salvaged rock slabs, and river stones make up a rock and fern garden between the orchard and the north entrance to the building. Once mature, the wetland will irrigate the site's grasses, gardens, and orchard. The wetland and connected 7,500-gallon storage cistern collect stormwater and retain it on-site, lowering demands on Oberlin's often-overwhelmed stormwater and sewage collection system. A constructed wetland and surrounding meadow ecosystem wrapping around the southeast corner of the building provide habitat for over 70 indigenous plant species and myriad animals. Though wetlands once comprised 90% of the north-central Ohio landscape, only 10% of those wetlands remain today. The gardens and orchard demonstrate how urban land can effectively produce food without sacrificing aesthetics. The earthen berm insulating the north side of the building is planted with dwarf apple and pear trees once mature, the trees are expected to produce 25 bushels of organic produce each year. The site also supports perennial strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Permaculture vegetable and flower gardens located on the northwest side of the building are cared for by faculty, students, and community members. It is estimated that over a 20-year period, maintaining native species will cost only one seventh as much as maintaining conventional turf. All grassy areas surrounding the building consist of species that require only infrequent mowing (by an electric mower) and are not reliant on chemical inputs. In 50-75 years, the microclimate created by native tree species on the south and southeast sides of the building will support spring wildflowers native to eastern deciduous forests. Landscaping, including several mini-ecosystems native to north-central Ohio, was designed with these goals in mind and is managed largely by Biology Professor David Benzing, his students, and college and community volunteers. The Lewis Center site serves three broad ecological functions: natural habitat, food production, and water management.