Appearance vs. Specifications
Appearance and specifications were constant considerations when positioning this waterslide.
As a designer there’s a vision for the project. And during the design phase you’re juggling with the look you’re after along with the imposed limitations of zoning codes and the slide manufacturer’s specifications.
This particular waterslide was built in modular sections (pieces) to fit this situation.
There were critical setback limitations that required the slide fit within a certain space. In addition, the slide arrives from the manufacturer with installation specifications to insure it performs as designed.
To meet the installation requirement of the slide’s height over the water, crewmen had to cut a notch in the boulders. The result was a waterslide that looked even more integrated with the boulders and setting.
Notice in the first picture at the top, to the left of the slide (where cardboard box sits) there’s an open space where the waterfall rock-work was stopped while awaiting the slide installation.
Now, with the slide in place, one carefully selected boulder fills that void.
This gives support for the earth and landscape which will surround the waterslide, but also visually connects the descending rock work with the slide.
Built to Last, and Perform Correctly
How something is built is as important as how it looks.
This slide required 3 Sonotube concrete supports — and the bottom of the slide is resting on boulders (which are mounted on the concrete beam of the pool).
Overkill? This slide will always perform correctly and never move out of position.
The pool contractor has completed the pool, the slide, the stone steps and the related rockery.
It’s now time for irrigation and plantings. Landscape lighting is planned for a later phase.
Here’s the previous post for this project.