LASN is a photographically oriented, professional journal featuring topics of concern and state-of-the-art projects designed or influenced by registered Landscape Architects.
Issue link: https://landscapearchitect.epubxp.com/i/274582
88 Landscape Architect and Specifier News a reminder about the life above and below the surface. When it rains, the runoff from each ramada is directed into "rain gardens" located at their base. Drainage runoff from the parking lots is directed into additional water harvesting basins used to provide supplemental water for the tree. A barren, flat field has been transformed into free flowing mounds that offer kids the simple joy of rolling down a hill, plus provide seating areas for spectators at the skate plaza and basketball courts. The site contouring also directs harvested rainwater to low-lying turf play areas that filter storm water and passively recharge the areas aquifers. An automatic sprinkler system only irrigates the side slopes. State-of-the-art irrigation controllers connect to soil moisture sensors around the site to monitor soil conditions and apply only the amount of water needed to maintain healthy vegetation. The irrigation system is also energy efficient through the use of variable frequency drive pumps. Power Generating Ramadas Five 40-ft. diameter ramadas, fitted with photovoltaic panels, offset the park's power consumption by an estimated 25 percent. The water harvesting roofs emulate a water surface supported by bundled reed support columns. Because of the geometric complexity of the ramadas, and their compound angles at the areas of attachment, the ramadas were fabricated and erected off site first. Energy efficiency and sustainability of the project are also increased with the use of LED fixtures set in custom cast concrete "reed" pole bases. Pedestrian Focus The integration of human need extends to every aspect of the park including design of the parking lot. The integration of tree planter islands that are spaced, not according to standards, but exceed that standard to create shaded areas that promotes pedestrian flow into the park. The minimum use of asphalt Above The splash pad (Vortex) follows the riparian theme of the park with a large frog spray hoop and water dumping flowers. A small river- like channel collects the run-off from the pad, which is divided into zones with spray equipment geared to younger and older children. Middle Rock archways and old stumps connected by ropes let kids test their balance and strength. 84-93.indd 88 2/28/14 5:10 PM