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NC-2009 SSc5.2:Site Development—Maximize Open Space

Water Fountains in an Urban Setting

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Doug Snyder
Principal
DS Greenbuild
LEEDuser Basic Member
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We have a tower project in SE Asia that will have several decorative water fountains. The slopes will not be vegetated or of a gradual nature, but it seems these should still count as open space with at least the same visual and recreational benefit as the walkable hardscapes.. Does anyone have experience with using fountains for open space? Or an opinion? Thanks, Doug Snyder Saigon, Vietnam

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James Wilson
Sustainable Design Research
BKSK Architects
LEEDuser Basic Member
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Sun, 01/08/2017 - 16:33

Doug, I agree that the decorative fountains as you describe them would provide visual and recreational benefit. However, based on the fact that the promotion of biodiversity is stated as the intent of the credit, I'm not sure you'd be able to argue that the fountains alone, without any vegetation, satisfy the requirements. Beyond the credit's intent, the requirements seem to me to be explicitly stating that any area, whether open space or pedestrian-oriented hardscape, must be vegetated to contribute to credit compliance.

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