This project was a classic challenge in logistics, mobilization, and construction of a major water feature. Design demanded considerable civil engineering in anticipation of future site development as the waterfall monument was built prior to anything else, including roads, parking and other structures. Fortunately the overall site was expansive and allowed the staging of nearly 750,000 tons of stone that were hauled across the country for this special project.
Because of codes and requirements, an innovative approach was used to keep the exposed lower pond less than 3 feet deep when the hydraulic and temperature requirements needed much deeper water. Large natural slabs stones were placed from side to side to mimic a natural stone bottom keeping the appearance natural and deep while creating safety for the public.
Highly diverse sizes of granite rock were used to create an exaggerated perspective and the illusion of depth and height. The tallest rock was over 20 feet tall and placed near the waterfall. However, very short cut-off columns, less than 2 feet tall, were used near the bottom of the falls to appear as though they were full length columns as the water flowed over and around them. This gave the illusion of depth at the base of the waterfall.
A pathway was designed and built that circumnavigated both the lower and upper pond, which was visible from the Dell Webb office. In contrast to the lower pond, the upper pond was designed with an infinity edge that created a reflection pool as seen in the photographs reflecting the gorgeous transplanted red Maple.
Local resources were found to create our EssentialSoil blends in order to avoid erosion problems, accelerate plant growth, and accommodate the severe east coast rains.