By Kelly A. Shue

THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

With the ground breaking 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 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.”

Breathtaking surroundings

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.

“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.”

In fact, the first thing that visitors and residents will see upon arrival at Ashby Ponds is a large pond, water 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?

Included within the Ashby Ponds landscaping will be a community garden, which, according to Gionet, “Provides ample opportunities for community members to garden and socialize with others who share the same passion.”