UNC Chapel Hill's Old Well, which has been a central feature of the campus since its opening in 1795, was the primary source of drinking water for many years. It remains a historic and symbolic landmark, closely tied to school traditions such as the "First Sips" ceremony, which is said to bring freshmen good luck and a perfect GPA.

Over time, the surrounding landscape has transformed: from an open lawn in the early 1800s, to flowering edges in the 1950s, and bold azalea plantings in the 1990s. The proposed redesign seeks to honor this evolving history by introducing a vibrant perennial garden with blue floral drifts of native flowers. The plan also includes removing declining undergrowth and overgrown shrubs to reconnect the Old Well with the larger quad, thereby restoring views similar to those of the 1800s and extending views towards McCorkle Place.