WALDEN PONDS

CU Boulder, ENVD

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The Walden Ponds in Boulder, CO, is a place where reclaimed ponds are connected by a trail system. These ecological trails create a space that attracts nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

I completed an in-depth site analysis to start this project. This involved documenting the elevation of a specific area, studying the current surface material, looking at the existing vegetation, and understanding the existing soil type.

Using the findings in my site analysis, I designed a cohesive environmental landscape alongside a walk-through experience. I studied how addition and/or subtraction of the site would integrate and improve the existing landscape with a multiple-plane walkway. I incorporated retaining walls to help with erosion control and pillared planes to highlight different layers of the environment.  

Starting with a smaller scope area, I was able to assess and design the overall site. My concept began with applying circles around the existing ponds, a more organic approach. Retaining walls were then built along the water’s edge to help prevent erosion and preserve the ponds. To help improve the ecology of the area, poles were placed in the water to support a habitat for a variety of water species. Nodes were created in areas where overlaps occurred. The result was a unique space for fishing, a viewing deck, and an outdoor amphitheater.