HONOR AWARD

Represents outstanding accomplishment in the profession of landscape architecture.

AMPHITHEATER PARK INTERACTIVE WATER FEATURE

“The jury were unanimous in recognizing the high-level of attention to detail this project demonstrated, both in design and construction. The spatial organization and consideration of all users, both passive and active, with sensitivity to all age groups and abilities stood out as an excellent achievement in landscape architecture.”

— ASLA Colorado Awards Jury

Aerial Looking Up Stream

Highlights meandering nature of feature from headwaters to splash play terminus showing contrasting forms of strong linear granite seating and runnels, and shade sails.

Seven Canyons Headwaters

One of the most striking and recognizable elements of the water feature, the headwater wall is highlighted by salt and pepper granite cladding, the names of the local seven canyons, and water weirs that are beautiful and mindful of the canyons that provide all water to the valley.

Seven Canyon Headwaters

The height of the water wall and falls created by the granite weirs create a perfect place for smaller children to play and “hide”.

Granite Pillars

Looking down stream, this view from the headwater basin highlights the granite pillars representing the narrow mouths of our canyons, the linear runnels in the middle ground, shade sails further beyond, and the beautiful landscaped park in which the feature resides.

Granite Runnels and Seating

Looking up stream, this view shows the linear granite runnel feature flowing into the main channel, the tot beach entry with sprays and bubblers, the various forms of granite stone used on the project both in and out of the channel, and of course the beautiful mountain backdrop that served as an inspirational element of the project.

Tot Beach Entry

Away from the hustle and bustle of the zero depth entry at the splash play terminus, this element is set aside as a secondary space to allow for a more mellow environment where younger children and parents can have their own space to be and still enjoy the water.

Fun for All

The feature is very popular from sun up to sun down during the hot summer months providing rest, relaxation, cooling, and most importantly fun! This is a place for all ages from the small tot to older children, parents, and grandparents alike. Seating in various forms and all important shade add to the popularity of this water feature.

Splash Play

The terminus of the water feature is highlighted with numerous sprays, bubblers, and a central dynamite blast nozzle that provides a zone of excitement and play. Amply sized and programmed, many children can enjoy this space at the same time with parents appreciating the surrounding granite seating and shade cover.

Long Summer Nights

Utah’s long summer nights allow this feature to be enjoyed nearly 12 hours a day at peak usage making this interactive water feature one of the most used recreational amenities in the City. Sunset is one of the best times to enjoy the feature with striking lighting highlighting the water and usage diminishing as it grows dark.

SUMMARY

This specialty interactive water feature has quickly become a favorite among community residents as a place of escape and adventure by combining a meandering stream channel with splash play. The feature begins as water cascades from a granite headwall into a shallow pool. From there, water meanders downhill through a channelized stream augmented by fountains, jets, and geysers. Shade provides respite and reprieve to visitors as children play in the water. Located near the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, local granite plays a key role in the design and is used for stepping stones, runnels, benches, boulders, and walls.

PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT

Replacing a pre-existing non-interactive water feature and bringing life to a previously underutilized space, the project provides an outdoor recreational space geared toward summertime use where children can play with water in a dynamic and inviting environment.

ROLE OF THE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

The landscape architect was responsible for the overall design, theming, construction documents, project management, and construction management of the project. As the prime consultant, the landscape architect led a team of subconsultants which included a: water design engineer, civil engineer, structural engineer, and electrical engineer.

PROJECT’S IMPORTANCE

Embodies and supports Sandy City’s “Mountain Meets Urban” theme in an interpretive and fun way
Utilizes salt and pepper granite representative of historic material used from nearby canyons
Feature is accessible from the parking lot, with the entire length also being accessible culminating in a zero depth beach entry at the terminus
Provides a well utilized recreational amenity that accommodates a range of ages and user groups
Opportunity for people to come together to interact and socialize
Flowing water in various configurations gives children a chance to manipulate water flow
Recirculating system minimizes water loss and usage
Filtration and chlorination ensure visitor safety and meet health department requirements