OTL Creates AIA-Accredited Presentation on Incorporating Commercial Water Features in Landscape or Building Design

OTL has witnessed the impact of adding a thoughtfully designed and carefully constructed water feature to commercial property – it’s truly quite powerful.

To that end, we have created “Why Water,” an AIA-accredited course on incorporating water features to landscape or building design. The presentation explains to commercial property stakeholders how these amenities promote health and wellbeing and sustainability, as well as the technical considerations and budgeting required to successfully add water features to commercial projects.

“Why Water” begins by extolling the myriad virtues of water, why it is so integral to human health and happiness, and why we have been drawn to it since the beginning of history. Next, the presentation moves into how stakeholders can implement water features into their properties wisely, considering logistics and costs. Additional topics discussed include how the principles of biophilic design focus on the human connection to water and its associated health benefits, and how our emotional attachments to water motivate our mood, performance, and productivity.

The presentation also addresses the many ways water features foster sustainability – from water conservation to energy-efficient lighting to pumps that reduce energy consumption, and more. It also gets down to the nitty-gritty of design, construction, and installation, explaining the best options for plumbing, electrical, wiring, bonding, waterproofing, and beyond. Meeting budget challenges and coordinating construction of equipment rooms and vaults are also tackled. Lastly, “Why Water” points out the unique nature of each water feature project and why it is critical to greet every project with a customized approach.

The course AIA and LACES accredited for 1 continuing education unit for Health, Safety, and Welfare. Credits earned on completion of the course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.

For more information on the “Why Water” AIA-Accredited Course, email OTL at info@otl-inc.com.