Jordan Creek Town Center Landscaping

West Des Moines, IA

2006 MCAA International Excellence in Masonry Award Winner

Mason Contractor: Forrest & Associate, Inc.
Architect: Murase Associates

Project Description

From it's initial conception, the lake with its natural stone water feature at Jordan Creek Town Center was not only intended to be a central unifying element for a new retail mall but also to provide local character to a regional shopping center and to give added meaning to, as the name implies, a town center. Inspired by regional landscape and geology, the falls and pools are given form by the creation of stone outcroppings of locally quarried limestone. A series of walks, promenades and architectural bridges ring the lake and allow the public to stroll the site to engage and view the water feature as they partake in recreational and entertainment opportunities.

Standard concrete and masonry techniques were used in the construction. Cast-in-place footings and stem walls form the foundation on which the stone is mortared and anchored in place. Waterproofing of walls and footings was accomplished with the use of a concrete crystalline admix, while the bottom of the pools incorporated an impervious clay liner. An additional PVC liner was placed over top of the clay liner in the immediate areas of the waterfall and pools and covered with locally derived cobble stone. This prevents the mixing of clay particulate into the water of the pools.

Stone for the walls and weirs was selected from a number of quarries providing a range of material varying in both dimension and color, and exhibiting an authenticity and appearance that cannot be replicated by any other means. Setting the aesthetic for the project, the Landscape Architect directed the masons in stone placement. Stones are mortared in place with the mortar being deeply raked back so as not to be seen. This technique enhances the natural appearance of the stone and the resulting coarse texture provides year round interest particularly during the winter months which necessitates a shut down of the water feature mechanical system.

As a result of this attention to detail of material and technique, the pools and falls bring a beauty and authenticity to the heart of a compelling attraction and has successfully anchored Jordan Creek Town Center in the regional landscape.