architecture tips

Typically, amusement parks are designed with a strong overall character which can include unique architecture, strong colour schemes, signage, furniture and other various methods of branding.

Plant selection provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen and further define character and establish a design that compliments the overall theme to create a striking result. Because there is so much going on visually in a theme park, a strong landscape character requires careful thought.

A rigorous process should be employed to decide what species best represent the desired theme. This involves a bit of creative licence, as a particular plant may fit the desired character perfectly but be totally unsuitable to the climate and site conditions.

People do not go to Theme parks for an ecology lesson. Rather, it is the place for fantasy and creativity to be let loose so the focus must remain on character building.

Plants with unique or striking features are required and they also need to meet a range of other constraints such as maintenance, growth habit, climate and poison considerations. Many common garden plants are poisonous to varying degrees, so consideration needs to be given to locating such plants only in inaccessible places, if at all.

Appropriate Use of Plants

Planting space may often be limited to odd shaped 'dead' space between rides, stalls, and service areas etc - places you don't necessarily want to draw attention to. Planting plays a significant role in screening or disguising these 'back of house' areas. In these instances, it may be best to use only a few plant species that are not attention grabbing to more or less create a backdrop. At the same time, high profile opportunities for large feature specimens should be maximised to act as 'keystones' of the landscape character.

Typically, individual precinct design or individual ride themes also allow opportunities to strengthen characters through their landscape setting. For instance, a common precinct theme is Midwestern America, where you would expect to see a predominantly desert landscape comprised mostly of rocks, cacti and perhaps a tumbleweed. The transitional area between different themed zones requires specific attention in terms of views and entry feature to avoid clashes of character.

Water Filtration and Stormwater

Incorporation of water filtration devices early on in the design process is essential when addressing character. The success of such devices depends on suitable plant species, most of which are native grasses - a character that is somewhat at odds with fairytale castles and tropical jungles. Strategic site planning is therefore crucial to avoiding serious clashes and achieving a great end product.

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Theme Park Planting Design

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