Aquatic Design Group honored by AIA and ASLA

Aquatic Design Group is proud to present several projects that have received awards from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) so far in 2024. These accolades underscore our ability to envision and design aquatic experiences that redefine spaces and enhance community wellbeing. Each award-winning project reflects our dedication to sustainability, inclusivity, innovative design, and high quality work. We are honored to be recognized by such esteemed organizations and look forward to continuing our pursuit of exceptional aquatic environments.

asla san diego 2024 design awards

children’s park | San Diego, California

The revitalization of San Diego's iconic Children's Park has won the prestigious 2024 ASLA San Diego Chapter's President's Award! Congratulations to our partners at Spurlock Landscape Architects and Schmidt Design Group for their outstanding completion of this transformative project. The park has been reimagined into a vibrant, inclusive space that perfectly aligns with San Diego's Downtown Community Plan. The $9 million revitalization, completed in Fall 2023, includes enhancements to the Civic Pond, a new children's play area, picnic spots, exercise equipment, and much more. Our team is proud to have provided comprehensive design, engineering, and construction observation services for the pond and water features.

In addition to this honor, Children's Park has also received an Honor Award at the 2024 AIA San Diego and AIA Palomar Design Awards, as well as the San Diego and Imperial Counties 2024 APWA Honor Award. It's truly rewarding to see our collective efforts being recognized and celebrated, especially when it's right in our back yard! We look forward to seeing the positive impact this revitalized space will continue to have on our community.

To learn more, click here.

Work-Water Features
Children's Park Civic Pond, San Diego, CA
Children's Park Civic Pond, San Diego, CA
Children's Park Civic Pond, San Diego, CA
Children's Park Civic Pond, San Diego, CA
Children's Park Civic Pond, San Diego, CA

Grape day Park Master Plan Update | Escondido, California

The Master Plan Update of the City of Escondido's Grape Day Park has won a 2024 ASLA San Diego Chapter Honor Award! Congratulations to our partners at LPA, Inc. on all their hard work and coordination with officials, design partners, and most of all the community. Aquatic Design Group provided programming and master planning services for the City of Escondido to support efforts to redevelop the Jim Stone Memorial Pool located in Grape Day Park. Several alternatives have been developed to potentially include a competition pool with diving, warm up/recreational pool, water slides, and a splash pad. To learn more, click here.

2024 AIA Regional & Urban Design Award

the wharf dc | washington, dc

The AIA Regional & Urban Design Award celebrates excellence in urban design, regional and city planning, and community development. Congratulations to our partners at Perkins Eastman DC in collaboration with Hoffman-Madison Waterfront (Hoffman & Associates) on transforming a formerly underutilized area into a vibrant urban destination that has become a cornerstone of Washington, DC.

Aquatic Design Group is proud to have contributed to this visionary project by providing design, engineering, and construction observation services for a stunning glass-bottom and glass-sided plunge pool and hydrotherapy spa. These unique features are located above The Anthem concert venue, serving the Channel Residences and providing unparalleled waterfront views. Click here to learn more.

Congratulations to everyone involved!

Aquatic Design Group honored by Aquatics International Magazine

Two Aquatic Design Group projects are featured in the Aquatics International Magazine 2024 Dream Designs! These multi-award-winning projects reflect our ability to elevate and reimagine aging or outdated facilities to bring them new life for years to come. Congratulations to all involved.

Merriam Community Center

Merriam, Kansas

Aquatic Design Group provided design and engineering services for the development of a much-needed new community aquatic center in Merriam, Kansas. Merriam’s Aquatic Center was originally all-outdoors, outdated, and too large to economically sustain.

There was originally some debate among council members regarding the layout of the site, specifically the placement of the diving well, as well as concern from a group of residents over the smaller size of the new outdoor facilities and losing the oversized outdoor-only facility they had become accustomed to. The final designs of the new facility were revised and expanded to include literally something for everyone - from competition, to play, to therapy, and everything in between – both outdoors and indoors.

The new aquatics center includes a new indoor 2,800 SF leisure and lap pool (four-lane x 25-yards) with lazy river and slide, and a small indoor therapy pool.  The 5,553 square foot indoor leisure pool features four 25-yard lanes, zero-depth entry, two water slides, ten interactive water play features and a lazy river current channel. One of the slides is a closed-flume body slide while the other slide is a simple ramp slide. The outdoor leisure pool features eight 25-meter lanes, two 1-meter springboard diving boards, a zero-depth beach entry, and five interactive water play features including a zipline. The outdoor leisure pool is surrounded by expansive decks and features shade structures, both great service amenities for special events.

Alongside partners Clark & Enersen and Perkins & Will, Aquatic Design Group included several exciting features in our design, including three air-activated "rapid simulator" depth charge bubblers on the lazy river in the indoor activity pool, activated by interactive features located on the pool deck.  The facility prioritizes water quality and sustainability by incorporating advanced filtration and purification systems. High-rate sand filters with heat exchangers ensure optimal water clarity and cleanliness, while a PPG chemical feed system maintains the appropriate chemical balance for safe swimming experiences. These state-of-the-art technologies not only enhance the comfort and safety of patrons but also underscore the facility's commitment to environmental stewardship and operational efficiency.

The aquatic center is only one part of a beautiful new 66,000 SF rec center on a seven-acre site in the heart of the Merriam community.

To learn more, click here.

Work-Municipalities
Merriam Community Center, Merriam, KS
Merriam Community Center, Merriam, KS
Merriam Community Center, Merriam, KS
Merriam Community Center, Merriam, KS
Merriam Community Center, Merriam, KS

Echo Hollow Pool Replacement

Eugene, Oregon

The Echo Hollow pool was originally built as an indoor/outdoor aquatic center in 1969. It featured an operable bulkhead which could raise to create two separate tanks, or lower to create one larger contiguous tank. When raised, a sliding wall system would be locked in place on top of the bulkhead to enclose one of the two tanks, leaving the other uncovered outside. After decades of operation, the entire facility was due for several improvements due to its aging infrastructure, plumbing concerns, outdated design, energy inefficiency, and the need for an overall facelift. The community expressed a need for play areas for young children, increased ADA accessibility, and more lap lanes to provide increased programming and user capacity.

The renovation of the indoor pool added a zero-entry ramp and two new diving springboards.  The outdoor portion of the original pool was demolished and replaced with a new 25-meter x 25-yard pool capable of hosting competitive swim meets and host water polo games as well as supporting one-meter and three-meter springboard diving.  An activity pool was also added that includes a zero-depth entry, wet play elements, two additional shallow 25-yard swim lanes for lessons and therapy programs, water basketball, and a 19-foot-tall, 134-foot-long water slide. 

Working alongside local architecture firm Robertson Sherwood Architects, Aquatic Design Group provided programming and planning including context assessment and verification, program analysis / program confirmation, and program development / budget analysis, as well as full design, engineering, and construction administration services for the renovation of the aquatics complex.  Five different options were considered to accomplish the unique challenge of separating the existing indoor-outdoor, six-lane x 50-meter pool described.  The selected option included converting the existing pool to a six-lane, 25-yard indoor pool with an added ADA access ramp allowing people with disabilities to enter the pool more easily, and two new diving springboards. A 25-yard by 25-meter outdoor pool was added for increased flexibility in programming. A sliding wall system allows one pool to be enclosed in cold or inclement weather.

The aquatic facility support spaces were also upgraded during this renovation, including an attractive entrance and lobby, new locker and changing rooms with more private showers and a spacious new family changing area, an additional 1,300 SF of staff office space, and an updated fitness area.  Modern and unique theming and colors throughout provide an inviting and exciting aquatic experience and add the finishing touches to this state-of-the-art facility.

Constructed to LEED Silver standards, the innovative design significantly reduced carbon emissions through the use of a highly efficient electric heat pump system designed by Systems West Engineers, indoor and underwater LED lighting, and a 167-panel solar array on the roof.

To learn more, click here.

Work-Municipalities
Echo Hollow Pool, Eugene, OR
Echo Hollow Pool, Eugene, OR
Echo Hollow Pool, Eugene, OR

Aquatic Design Group Spring 2024 Tradeshows

First, catch us at the Maryland Recreation and Parks Association (MRPA) 2024 Annual Conference in lovely Cambridge, MD! Don't miss two chances to hear from Aquatic Design Group's Michael Mancini on Wednesday, April 10. We're looking forward to connecting with friends new and old to bring your aquatic project to life!

📆 View the conference schedule here: https://mdrpa.org/conference-schedule/

Next up is NIRSA2024!! Don't miss Justin Caron moderating an informative panel on Creating Thriving Aquatic Programs with Eric Knight, Principal of Chloramine Consulting; Katy Locke, Assistant Director at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; and Gwen Schlotte, Vice President of Life Floor. See you in Phoenix!

📆 Learn more here: https://www.nirsa.net/conference/nirsa-2024-phoenix/schedule/sessions-overview/

Lastly we're looking forward to reconnecting with our friends in the PNW and making new ones at the Washington Recreation and Parks Association conference in Vancouver this week! Don't miss Justin Caron's session, Truly Inclusive Aquatics, on May 22 at 1:30 PM.

📆 Find out more here: https://wrpa.memberclicks.net/2024-conference-block-2#TwoC

See you there!

'Designing Modern Aquatic Centers' published in Parks and Recreation Magazine

Pools and aquatics centers are continuing to move away from the rectangular, six- or eight-lane design and function of the past. This transition is happening even faster than anticipated by industry experts, as park and recreation agencies operating pools find themselves needing to generate more revenue to continue recovering from the financial hardships brought on by the recent pandemic, combined with rising staff costs and changed expectations with regard to subsidizing aquatics. Many also took a hard look at their aquatics facilities during the downtime the pandemic provided and came to the realization that their tired aquatics facilities needed significant renovation or even replacement. To revamp an existing aquatics facility or in planning for a new aquatics facility, park and recreation professionals are turning to the variety of popular special features that can multiply the number and variety of users, revenue and fun at pools.

Aquatic Design Group Celebrates 40 Years!

What happens when two friends strike out on their own to start a company? They work hard, have fun, and grow into one of the largest and most successful aquatic architecture and engineering firms in the country over the next 40 years.

Since its inception, Aquatic Design Group has been at the forefront of creating waves of innovation in aquatic design and engineering. From its humble beginnings with a recreation facility for the City of Bellflower, California, the firm has expanded its footprint, diving into diverse markets such as educational facilities, decorative water features, hotels and resorts, athletic training facilities, wave and surf parks, and competitive venues worldwide.

The legacy of Aquatic Design Group is deeply rooted in the vision of its founders, Scott Ferrell, AIA, a second-generation pool designer, and Randy Mendioroz, a visionary leader in waterpark amenities and construction, who established the firm in 1984 with a commitment to producing impeccable architectural and engineering documents for waterparks and aquatic facilities.

A member of the World Waterpark Association’s Hall of Fame, Randy Mendioroz's sudden passing in 2013 was mourned throughout the aquatics industry, but his pioneering leadership continues to shape the industry today. His unique approach facilitated the integration of private-sector waterpark amenities into public-sector aquatic centers, aiding in operational and financial sustainability and enhancing user experiences.

Scott Ferrell, AIA, assumed firm leadership following Randy's passing and continued to steer Aquatic Design Group to new heights. Under his guidance, the firm expanded into new markets, including surf parks and collegiate and professional athletic training and recovery facilities. Scott's unwavering commitment to "Family First" and his dedication to excellence have been driving forces behind the firm's success.

Scott passes his work ethic as well as his talent for design on to his son, Greg Ferrell, AIA, Vice President and Principal Architect. "We invite you to join us as we commemorate forty years of accomplishment and ingenuity in aquatics projects around the globe," said Ferrell. “As we share our favorite projects and collaborations over this coming year, I have nothing but heartfelt gratitude to our valued clients, partners, staff, and cherished friends and family for forty extraordinary years of partnership and delivering unforgettable aquatic experiences."

Fellow Firm Principals Justin Caron, MBA, CEO and Dennis Berkshire, AFO, CFO, President continue to lead the firm into a promising future ahead. Both regularly present educational sessions sharing their knowledge around the country at regional, national, and international conferences. Berkshire is one of the leading experts in shaping the future of the industry through his involvement on boards and standards committees. Caron continues to honor Mendioroz’s passion and position the firm to be forward focused and on creating experiences that are centered around each individual project, and not cookie cutter designs.

The success of Aquatic Design Group is not dependent on the principals, however, as the firm continues to grow around a core staff with an average tenure of over 12 years. “Our employees are the reason that Aquatic Design Group is recognized as a leader in the industry and is so well regarded. Every single member of our team is outstanding at what they do” Caron says. “Their level of expertise, passion for aquatics, and the fact that they’re all amazing people allows us to take on more work, produce at such a high level, and create unbelievable places where people relax, play, chase their dreams, recover, and recreate.”

Over the past four decades, Aquatic Design Group has completed over 3,500 projects in 47 states and 32 countries, setting the standard for quality swimming pool and water feature design and consulting services within the aquatics industry. Notable projects include iconic landmarks such as the Palace of the Lost City in Sun City, South Africa, and the Venetian Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, NV.

The journey continues as Aquatic Design Group looks forward to building upon its solid foundation and shaping the future of aquatic design and engineering for the next 40+ years.

Happy Holidays from Aquatic Design Group!

As 2023 comes to a close, we're reflecting on the beauty of the season and the incredible projects that made waves this year - all 348 projects in 30+ states and six countries in 2023!

Our office will be closed starting at noon PST today, Friday, December 22, and we will resume operations on Tuesday, January 2. We look forward to celebrating our 40th Anniversary in 2024 and approaching the next 40 years with the same unwavering passion that has fueled our commitment over the last four decades.

Wishing you a joyous holiday and a bright 2024 from your friends at Aquatic Design Group!

Employee Spotlight: Michelle Gable

At Aquatic Design Group, we want to recognize that we’re more than just a company, we’re people - dedicated professionals with a passion for what we do. In our ongoing Employee Spotlight series, we’ll introduce our team members and all the awesome things we’re doing as individuals as well as together as a firm.

In honor of water safety month, Aquatic Design Group’s next Employee Spotlight is Michelle Gable. Over her 17+ years in the aquatics industry, Michelle has trained over 800 individuals in a variety of aquatics and first responder certifications and has served in management and operational roles for both competitive and recreational aquatics programs. Michelle brings a passion for aquatics and a lifetime of experience from a childhood love of water to competitive swimmer, lifeguard, teacher, operator, director, and now project manager that is truly an asset to our firm.

Happy Holidays from Aquatic Design Group!

During this season, we celebrate our successful partnerships and projects with clients like you - all 305 projects in 30 states and six countries in 2022!

Our office will be closed starting at noon on Friday, December 23 and will reopen Tuesday, January 3. We will return ready to take on 2023 with the same passion that has driven us the last four decades.

Wishing you a joyous holiday and a bright 2023 from your friends at Aquatic Design Group!

Employee Spotlight: Justin Caron, CEO/Principal

At Aquatic Design Group, we want to recognize that we’re more than just a company, we’re people - dedicated professionals with a passion for what we do. In our ongoing Employee Spotlight series, we’ll introduce our team members and all the awesome things we’re doing as individuals as well as together as a firm.

For the last two decades, Justin Caron has worked with clients and owners to help bring their dream aquatic facilities to reality. We sat down with Justin and peppered him with questions to get a sense of his background, favorite projects, and more.

Justin Caron, MBA - CEO/Principal Employee Spotlight

Employee Spotlight: Norma Villegas, Drafter / Technician

At Aquatic Design Group, we want to recognize that we’re more than just a company, we’re people - dedicated professionals with a passion for what we do. In our ongoing Employee Spotlight series, we’ll introduce our team members and all the awesome things we’re doing as individuals as well as together as a firm.

In honor of International Women in Engineering day, our Employee Spotlight is Norma Villegas, one of Aquatic Design Group’s experienced drafters. Norma is a breath of fresh air. She’s level-headed, even-keeled, pleasant to be around, a talented designer, and a hard worker. She has grown and evolved over the last four years to be a key member of our design team and she makes everyone around her better as well. We’re so proud to have her on our team. Our only complaint is that we haven’t figured out a way to clone her yet! Get to know Norma a bit better below.