This drawing is an analysis of the existing conditions in Corby Rose Garden. The current condition of the fountain structure, the
fountain plaza and surrounding landscape is analyzed.  

Description of Existing Conditions

This drawing indicates the proposed design strategy.  The
Landscape Architects looked at various design configurations that help meet the Key Design Objectives, while presenting new
opportunities for better circulation and use of the space for visitors
and neighbourhood residents.

 Description of Design Strategy

This Conceptual Plan develops the idea of removing the failed
planters and brickwork, while building on the solid poured concrete core which includes the upper and lower pools and the
stepped water wall. It includes refurbishing the retained portion of
the fountain by introducing traditional and classic materials and
styling.  

This drawing is an enlargement of the fountain itself indicating a focused water flow over a façade of limestone ledgerock, copper underlay, traditional wall sconce fountains on the endwalls,  and graceful steps and sitting walls for photo opportunities.  Cast concrete copings and pillar caps will anchor the fountain in the landscape and reduce the visual scale while reflecting the traditional brick and stone materials used in the surrounding neighbourhood.

Public Comment Form 

Following the first public meeting held in the garden, the consultants looked at several design alternatives including the reinstatement of the historic Corby fountain; a new gazebo in place of the existing fountain; a new Victorian fountain and combinations of the above were considered.  In the end, the design proposing a renovation of the existing fountain in a more classic style was adopted and developed. The existing end planters and benches will be removed and replaced with a curvilinear seating wall.  New masonry end piers will add a vertical dimension and provide an opportunity for additional classical design features such as a rose medallion or lion-head wall fountain. The classical theme is carried further by creating a central water sheet which will pour into a sculpted basin mounted on the existing wall which will be refaced in natural ledgerock. The second public site meeting concluded with the consensus that the proposed design approach makes good use of the substantial existing concrete structure, while adding an overlay of classical materials and design elements which will better suit the historic character of the park.  The final design for the core items is proceeding to construction in September 2011, while the community focuses on fundraising to supplement the fountain renovation project with additional features not within the current budget.

These sketches illustrate the design intent for the fountain renovation.  Using a classical design approach, the existing concrete fountain will be re-faced using limestone shelf-rock with classical brick detailing. The existing water wall will have the water focused into a central ‘sheet’ that will fall into a sculpted bowl, before falling into the basin below.  Three narrow directed water flows on each side of the sheet complement the central focus. A new Victorian style metal railing, and a classical approach to the end walls will give an historic ‘grotto’ feel to the new look.  A curvilinear seating wall around the new end piers will hold new plantings and up-lighting will focus attention on the rose medallion or lion head water feature on the end walls.  The existing vines will be thinned and removed as necessary, but will be part of the new design as the landscape matures.

Fountain Conceptual Elevations