Landscape Architect & Specifier News

MAR 2014

LASN is a photographically oriented, professional journal featuring topics of concern and state-of-the-art projects designed or influenced by registered Landscape Architects.

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44 Landscape Architect and Specifier News (Continued on page 46) Turtle Back Zoo (Continued from page 42) Above A 25' x 25' 'Wave' beige shade canopy with brown powder- coated posts shades the children in the 'Fossil Dig' zone as they experience the thrill of unearthing "ancient bones." The mechanical "backhoe" diggers, one of which is wheelchair accessible, assists kids in their explorations. There is also a fossil wall/chalkboard and bench seating for parents. architectural, site planning, and custom playground equipment design and graphics, plus managed the civil and structural engineers throughout the project from conceptual designs, construction document preparation, bidding and construction administration. The LA worked in every aspect of the project, in conjunction with the county, the zoo director, managerial staff and educators to design unique and innovative playground structures with a prehistoric theme. The 8,000 square foot area designated for construction was located below an aging and visually unappealing retaining wall, on a steep slope with erosion damage, with limited pedestrian and construction access. Numerous concept plans, sketches, renderings and design themes were developed. Brainstorming sessions and meetings with programming, educational and maintenance staff, as well as ideas from children that attended the Zoo Camp. Using the information from these project stakeholders, all instrumental in the development of the final design, the team went on to develop a custom sculpted prehistoric-themed playground equipment with site amenities. Erosion issues were resolved by carving level play areas into the slope, basically fitting the playground into the side of the hill. A new heavy-duty retaining wall holds back the hill, and the slope behind the wall is vegetated. The playground's custom designed structures were based on conceptual ideas and sketches of the landscape architect, then elaborated upon through the development of additional sketches, digital renderings and clay models. 40-49.indd 44 2/27/14 4:04 PM

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