Air Force Center For Character and Leadership

As part of the Skidmore Owens Merrill (SOM) Design Team, THK lead the urban design effort for the plaza, fountain and landscape areas reserved for AFA Staff and Cadets. The two plazas adjacent to the building included a custom turf/paving system that was designed to support cadet traffic.

Passive reflective pools were also designed and are reminiscent of the original reflective pools designed by acclaimed landscape architect Dan Kiley. These fountains included a passive circulation system to support the quiet, reflective experience of cadets using the plaza. The fountain mechanical system was hidden with unique weir and cobble lined bottom. Plant materials were selected that require minimal maintenance and were selected for to minimize debris accumulation in the reflective pools. A sports turf sod was specified that was capable of sustaining high volumes of pedestrian traffic.

The Center for Character and Leadership Development was awarded the International Architecture Award from the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design in 2011.

Client

United States Air Force Academy

Location

Colorado Springs, CO

Services

Landscape Architecture

Civic Space Design

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With generous support from the Rampart Range Metropolitan District, Badger Gulch Park will not only provide a beautiful space for leisure but also play a crucial role in preserving the local natural habitat for years to come.