By Kelly A. Shue
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE
With the construction of Erickson’s 19th community— Ashby Ponds—scheduled for later this year, many people are wondering, “What will the campus look like?”
Those familiar with the architectural design of erickson’s other campuses will be pleased to know that according to Landscape Architect Mark Gionet of Lewis, Scully, Gionet, inc., “Ashby Ponds is based on the same landscape philosophy developed at other Erickson communities. extensive plantings highlight campus architecture while providing shade, beauty, and seasonal interest so residents can enjoy the outdoors.”
According to architectural landscaping plans, Ashby Ponds will include a range of new and preserved landscape features, including ponds, new plantings, outdoor spaces, and preservation of existing trees along Beaverdam Run.
Breathtaking surroundings
“Ashby Ponds is designed to complement the characteristics of the site’s surrounding Virginia Piedmont landscape while organizing the campus architecture, drives, walkways, and amenities in the manner of the grand parks and estates of the last century,” Gionet says.
“A major feature of the new landscape will be the wide park-like green spaces along curving walkways and plantings, connecting each neighborhood,” he adds.
In fact, the first things that visitors and residents will see upon arrival at Ashby Ponds are a large pond, fountain, and gazebo at the main entrance. A waterfront trail will surround the pond, and lush plantings of native and flowering plants will create opportunities for wildlife observation.
How will your garden grow?
Also adding to the aesthetic beauty of the landscape will be nearly 40 different species of trees, over 50 varieties of shrubs, and two dozen types of perennials and ornamental grasses.