Client: B.T. Center Associates

Challenge
As part of its 1,000,000 square foot Brandywine Town Center Retail Mall in Wilmington, Delaware, the owner developed concept plans for a four acre reflecting pond. This was to be a key aesthetic feature, welcoming mall patrons and fulfilling a promise made to the surrounding residential communities. Not only did the pond have to be a breathtaking feature, but it had to maintain its beauty and functionality over time. And, it had to be efficient to maintain and operate.

Solution
Duffield Associates' team of water resources and geotechnical engineers and scientists and our mechanical/electrical subconsultant developed plans for a pond which would hold over two million gallons of water.

An innovative geosynthetic clay liner was chosen for the pond's base because of its cost effectiveness, durability and installation ease. The design team used mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall systems faced with simulated stone masonry as an elegant and cost effective vertical edge for the pedestrian plaza walls wrapping around approximately one-third of the pond. This innovative approach anchors the pond liner behind the MSE walls in a way which allows water to pass through it and reduces frost damage.

Our team specified a water circulation and purification system to keep the water clean without giving it an artificial character. The trick was to provide just enough purification by turning over or filtering all of the pond's water at least once every 24 hours. This approach, coupled with the approximately 120,000 gallons per hour of water aerated by the pond's three multi-jet fountains, provides a high degree of clarity and a "natural" water appearance.

This prominent landmark has drawn positive acclaim and has become a "go see" feature for local residents and visitors.

Our innovative approach was awarded the 2002 Consulting Engineers Council of Delaware Engineering Excellence Honors Award.