Landscape Architect Articles

Crafting a Vision10-15-24 | Feature

Crafting a Vision

Jackson Healthcare's Campus Expansion
by Scott Jones, ASLA, SITE solutions

Jackson Healthcare's corporate campus in Alpharetta, Georgia, which sits just north of Atlanta, underwent a $100 million renovation. Completed in 2019, the project led to the creation of an expansive campus featuring three office towers, an amenities building, and a parking structure, all connected by landscapes and pedestrian pathways. The landscape was designed by landscape architecture firm SITE solutions with the intent of reflecting the company's growth while never losing sight of their Italian heritage. Pictured here, the grand piazza at Jackson Healthcare's campus features Italian-influenced paving and lighting as well as fountains and statues inspired by classical motifs. This area still serves a practical purpose, as versatile lighting allows the space to host events when needed. Architecture firm RJTR Architecture handled programming, master planning, architecture, and interior design for the campus expansion.

This area, with its curved water feature, was designed to evoke the Piazza del Campo in Siena, Italy, with an axis preserved to align with Italian architecture and planning principles. Some walkways include Lafitt model pavers from Belgard Commercial - which feature a three-piece pattern and the texture of cut flagstone - as well as the manufacturer's Moduline pavers that have a linear shape, versatile color options, a running bond texture, and a smooth face.

In addition to 24-inch-by-30-inch pavers, three-inch-by-twelve-inch versions of the same type, but in the color Linen, were incorporated in the design. They feature three-millimeter micro-chamfer width to minimize vibration and enhance wheelchair comfort.

The project's site had challenging topography and a complex utility infrastructure, demanding a design that was both functional and aesthetically captivating. Initial consultation and planning included broad site analysis to address issues like uneven terrain. A four-foot retaining wall to the north of the plaza connects the parking lot with the office buildings, and a flight of eight stairs to the south allows the plaza to remain level in the hilly terrain.

Besides Italian Cypresses (Cupressus sempervirens), other plantings for the project included Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea), Crinkle-Leaf Privet (Ligsutrum japonicum 'Recurvifolium'), Wax-Leaf Ligustrum (Ligustrum japonicum 'Texanum'), Carolina Jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), Schipka Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Schipkaensis'), and Bath's Pink (Dianthus gratianopolitanus 'Bath's Pink').

Services by SITE solutions included master planning and permitting as well as designing or specifying lighting, paving, landscape irrigation, security fencing, trails, dining and seating areas, steps, fountains, handrails, and ornate pots. Other hardscape materials include decomposed granite and pea gravel.

Naturalistic-looking streams were part of the overall strategy. This stream features large, native Tennessee fieldstone slabs. The accompanying path is made of flagstone supplied by a local vendor. In the foreground is a Eriobotrya japonica tree, better known as Loquat. Other foliage throughout the project includes Littleleaf Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Compacta'), Pink-Flowering Chinese Fringe Flower (Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum 'Burgundy'), and Japanese Ternstroemia (Ternstroemia gymnanthera). In the evening, this area is illuminated with soft lighting. Photo Credit: Scott Jones, ASLA, SITE solutions LLC.

Off another flagstone pathway is a section of two-toned, poured-in-place concrete. Down the middle of this walkway, poured concrete is seeded with natural, local Chattahoochee River aggregate. Photo Credit: Scott Jones, ASLA, SITE solutions LLC

This water feature was designed and built to facilitate Koi fish. The seat wall was built with native Tennessee fieldstone. The walkway is paved with poured-in-place colored concrete. Various ornate pots were specified for this area. Photo Credit: Scott Jones, ASLA, SITE solutions LLC

To welcome visitors to the site, a custom-designed water feature was built at the entrance to the building closest to the parking lot. The steps are made of cast stone.

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SITE solutions had the honor of serving as the Landscape Architect for the remarkable expansion of Jackson Healthcare's corporate campus in Alpharetta, Georgia. Renowned for their dedication to fostering collaboration and well-being among their associates, Jackson Healthcare envisioned a space that would reflect their growth and embrace their Italian heritage.

Project Overview
This $100 million project, completed in 2019, saw the creation of an expansive campus featuring three office towers, an amenities building, and a parking structure, all intricately connected by thoughtfully designed landscapes and pedestrian pathways.

Locale and Project History
Jackson Healthcare, one of the nation's leading healthcare staffing firms, has a rich history rooted in Georgia. Their headquarters, located just north of Atlanta in Alpharetta, has been a hub of innovation and growth since its establishment in 2008.

The firm's rapid expansion necessitated a significant campus development to accommodate their increasing workforce and evolving needs. The project was set against the backdrop of a site with difficult topography and complex utility infrastructure, creating a challenge for the designers.

Project Goals
The primary focus was to generate a corporate campus that would enhance the work environment for Jackson Healthcare's employees by fostering a sense of community and well-being. The design directive was to replicate authentic Italian Renaissance elements and produce a space reminiscent of Italy, a place dear to the Jackson family.

The project aimed to blend modern functionality with classical beauty, resulting in a campus that could host large events, provide outdoor respite, and facilitate seamless pedestrian connectivity.

Design Method and Process
The design team approached this project with a meticulous process that balanced aesthetic aspirations with practical considerations. The landscape architecture firm began with initial consultation and planning, during which they collaborated closely with Jackson Healthcare and other stakeholders to understand their vision and requirements. Extensive site analysis to address topographic and infrastructure challenges was also part of this phase.
Next, initial design concepts were developed. These included Italian Renaissance-styled elements, such as a grand piazza and landscaped pedestrian pathways. This stage also involved selecting materials that aligned with the desired aesthetic, from plant species to light fixtures.

The conceptual designs were refined into detailed plans to ensure that every aspect of the landscape would function cohesively with the elements provided by RJTR Architecture, who handled programming, master planning, architecture, and interior design for the campus expansion.

SITE solutions was put in charge of overseeing the execution of the landscape design, coordinating with contractors, and ensuring that the installation adhered to the design specifications. This part of the project required careful management to address any unforeseen challenges and maintain the project's timeline.

The design of the Jackson Healthcare campus is a testament to the harmonious blend of classical and contemporary elements.

Grand Piazza
At the heart of the campus lies an Italian-inspired square, featuring elegant fountains and pathways reminiscent of Siena's Piazza del Campo. This central space serves as a flexible venue for various events and day-to-day pedestrian activities, with intricate paving patterns, elegant seating areas, and lush greenery.

Centrally Located Amenities Building
Mimicking the grandeur of the Roman Colosseum, this building houses a state-of-the-art fitness center, an indoor pool, personal training facilities, and wellness services, including chiropractic and massage therapy. Its design encourages employees to prioritize their well-being without leaving the campus.

Pedestrian Pathways
Upgraded paths enhance connectivity between the buildings, allowing employees to move effortlessly across the campus. These pathways are lined with carefully selected plants and trees, providing shade and aesthetic appeal.
Recreational Spaces
The campus features a bocce ball court, a miniature golf area, and meticulously crafted walking trails, providing ample recreational opportunities for associates. The koi pond, surrounded by outdoor seating, offers a serene environment for relaxation and informal meetings.

Parking Structure
The six-story parking structure, designed to reflect historic Italian architecture, seamlessly integrates with the campus aesthetic, ensuring that even the most utilitarian aspects of the design contribute to overall visual appeal of the campus.

Challenges and Solutions
Any concerns about the project were primarily related to the site's severe topography and existing utility infrastructure, which were addressed through innovative design and
strategic planning.
The topographic challenges included uneven terrain that required extensive grading and retaining walls to create level surfaces for the buildings and piazza. The design team used these topographic variations to their advantage, creating terraces and multi-level spaces that add depth and interest to the landscape.

Navigating the existing utility lines and systems demanded careful coordination with engineers and contractors. The design incorporated features that accommodated these utilities while maintaining the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space.

Ensuring that the materials used were both durable and in line with the Italian Renaissance theme was a complex task. The design team conducted thorough research to source appropriate materials, from paving stones to plant species, that would withstand the local climate while contributing to the desired aesthetic.
Project Outcome
The completed Jackson Healthcare campus is a vibrant, dynamic space that exemplifies the successful integration of landscape architecture and architectural design. The grand piazza serves as the focal point, bringing together employees and visitors in a space that is both functional and beautiful. The centrally located amenities building promotes a holistic approach to employee well-being, while the enhanced pedestrian pathways foster connectivity and interaction.

The project has been celebrated for its thoughtful design and successful execution, providing Jackson Healthcare with a corporate campus that not only meets their current needs but also accommodates future growth. The careful consideration of topography, infrastructure, and aesthetic elements has resulted in a space that reflects the company's values and heritage, creating an environment where great companies can thrive.
Wrapping Up
The Landscape Architects' involvement in the Jackson Healthcare campus expansion showcases the transformative power of thoughtful landscape architecture. By blending classical Italian design with modern functionality, the project has created a corporate campus that stands as a testament to innovation, collaboration, and well-being.

The challenges faced and overcome during the project highlight the importance of strategic planning and creative problem-solving in landscape design, ensuring that the outcome exceeds expectations and serves as an inspiration for future developments.

Team List:
Landscape Architecture: SITE solutions
Architecture: RJTR Architects
General Contractor: Choate Construction Company