Description Of The Program

Goric was tasked with designing a water-themed playground adjacent to the Gulf State Park Interpretive Center, which is on a 1.8-acre sandy beach parcel along the Gulf of Mexico surrounded by a diverse, preserved ecosystem. The unique challenge here was to offer a play area that fits in with the mission of the Interpretive Center, which offers the public a direct connection with nature and education about Alabama’s ecosystem and wildlife. The center itself has a green design optimizing light, energy and - especially - water usage.

Nature Of The Work

A unique characteristic of the Interpretive Center project is that all of its water needs are generated on-site by capturing rainfall. The theme and design of the water play area is all about water and is tied in to the overall rain capture system.

Size & Complexity Of The Project

The water play system is built outside the interpretive center, and offers open views across the dunes, slatted overhead shade areas and sand and water play. Like the larger system, the play area water pump works from a reservoir filled with rain water. Since the equipment is in close proximity to the sea, it was imperative that all parts be made from marine grade 316 stainless steel. Because it was not possible to get the K&K Pump in marine grade, Goric arranged for their water pump manufacturer to customize their marine grade pump to seamlessly match the aesthetic of the rest of the K&K basins and troughs. Great care was taken to design the footings for a sandy beach installation. The play area is about 21 feet by 22 feet in total. Goric provided all required documents to achieve the goal of LEED Platinum status for this project.