Crystal Mountain Park at Water's Edge

When Crystal Mountain Resort decided to replace their outdoor pool, which was too small and poorly located, they were looking for more than just a pool. They wanted to create a hub of activity that would bring new energy to the resort. With the guidance of the Master Plan that the Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio initially prepared for the resort in 1989 and has regularly updated since then, an underutilized area of the resort‘s central core was identified as an ideal location for the new pool.  A pair of existing tennis courts and two parking lots were relocated to clear four acres for a new residential project and the outdoor pool & activity center, Cottages at Water’s Edge and Park at Water’s Edge.

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The JHLE Studio located the new pool complex in the center of the new development, surrounded by cottages.  The 4,200 square foot pool features a zero-depth pool edge and a nearby multi-platform aquatic climbing structure with water jets and spilling water.  The other end of the pool offers lap lanes, volleyball, and basketball nets.  Other features nearby include a hot tub, a sand play area, and a 32-foot climbing wall, with plenty of deck space for lounge chairs, umbrellas and tables next to the concession building.  Extensive use of perennials and ornamental grasses complement the ornamental trees and create a buffer between the pool and the nearby cottages.  The landscaping around the Park at Water’s Edge and the nearby Cottages at Water’s Edge received a Perennial Plant Association Honor Award in 2008.