| Based on the notion that ‘stormwater is a resource and we should consistently seek ways to integrate it into design rather than just dispose of it’ simp.L developed a concept, which it had to sell, not only to the ownership but also the local stormwater agency, CWS. The idea involved developing the precisely architectural and geometric (radial) footprint of the detention/treatment facility at the prominent intersection of a state highway, a principal arterial, and a minor arterial. With maximum visibility, commuters can witness stormwater management at work as conveyed stormwater enters the basin through vegetated swales and into a series of basins & energy dissipaters. The activity is visible through large gaps and carefully placed openings in the radial wall at the perimeter of the facility. Convincing CWS that Innovative stormwater designs should move beyond the chainlink fence enclosed, utilitarian, eyesores was not as easy as it would seem. Once they saw the concept drawings and preliminary details we got a ‘green light’ and prepared all permitting and construction related documents to build this innovative stormwater management facility that makes an architectural statement, visually integrating it and unifying it into it’s surroundings. |
