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/73027
Stallings' Stellar Splash Pad Landscape Architecture by Site Solutions Above The Stallings North Carolina splash pad features fountain spheres constructed of polyester resin, fine aggregates and glass fibers (Glascrete). The spheres and flush fountains are from The Fountain People ("Fountain In a Can"). The fountains have stainless steel drain grates (Zurn) with the centers cut out to accommodate the fountain nozzles. In 2007, the town of Stallings, North Carolina, began developing a new vision for an old and worn out downtown park at the center of town. The park, across from the town hall on Stallings Road, needed a new image, and an exciting and unique feature to draw in locals and passers-by. Led by the Stallings Park and Recreation Committee, the town staff and City Council came together to develop a master plan for the new park. Given the proximity to downtown and the quasi-urban setting, a more formal character was envisioned for the park, including greens framed by tree-lined walks and arbors with a significant water feature as a centerpiece. This plan included a new band shell, picnic and restroom facilities, a new playground, open grassy areas for play, walks and trails, architectural arbors 48 Landscape Architect and Specifier News providing opportunities for shaded seating, and a water feature. The water feature was envisioned as an interactive and architectural fountain, from the gray and red spiral granite center to the twisted spheres at the outer edge, which could serve as a central magnet of activity. The design team at Site Solutions incorporated a range of design strategies, materials, textures and water elements to create municipal fountain magic. Three vertical jets power the center of the fountain from a shallow pool of tumbled Mexican beach stone. The center water feature delights children with a random bouncing effect, created with three flush jet nozzles lifting through 1.5 inches of pooled water in the center. Spirals of gray and red flame finished granite lead out from the pool, receiving the splash from the perimeter nozzles built into 12 embossed spheres. Between these elements is a ring of 12 more (Continued on page 50)