Envisioned as an urban gathering plaza within the heart of Los Angeles,
the Watercourt at California Plaza is a synthesis of multiple water
elements. WET Design collaborated with Arthur Erickson Architectural
Corporation to develop a flexible arena for a variety of functions. At
times accompanying a live performance, and at others as an event of
its
own, water transforms from a role of support to one of central elation
and
celebration.
To achieve multiple effects of tumbling and falling water, WET Design
engaged the inherent sculpture in the walls, stage and amphitheater of
the site.
At its most robust, a massive wave crashes forth from the rear, and
cascades over the stage and amphitheater steps into a pool below,
while engulfing all of the sculptural elements of the site. WET
incorporated an array of pulsing jets that are choreographed in a range
of sequences to perform on the main stage. When there are other
performances, a curtain of continuously flowing jets acts as a back drop
for performers on the main stage.
In the evening, illumination saturates the vertical water activity,
providing the plaza with the quality of a festival and a celebration.
SPIRAL FOUNTAIN
A shallow, convex, conical form rises from the plaza surface at the
main entrance to California Plaza. From the center of the form emit
columns of pulsing water that range in height from one to sixty feet.
Each jet is individually controlled, resulting in nearly endless, spiraling
choreographies.
The Spiral Fountain punctuates the entrance to the site with a whimsical
and playful gesture of welcome.
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