Landscape Architect Articles

LASn 2010 Firms: Frederick Ward Associates, Inc.09-08-10 | News

Frederick Ward Associates, Inc.,
Bel Air, Maryland

Frederick Ward Associates, Inc. (FWA), a privately held corporation, offers architecture, civil engineering, land planning, landscape architecture, environmental and surveying services for the building and construction industry.

For nearly 55 years the firm has blended its technical disciplines to serve a varied clientele. FWA’s design teams have coordinated design, review and secured approval and permitting of many successful building projects. This responsibility requires thorough knowledge and integration of local, state and federal laws and regulations dealing with building design, construction and land development. Zoning, sediment control, stormwater management, highway access, utilities, structures, building codes, life safety codes, handicap codes, wetland regulations, ADA, the Fair Housing Act and many other issues and regulations are fully understood and correctly applied. FWA’s vision is to incorporate sustainable strategies into each and every project.

The firm is active in the US Green Building Council’s Maryland Chapter, was integral in starting the Northern Chesapeake Branch and regularly contributes to multiple committees at the state level.

Reckord Armory Park, Bel Air, Md.

FWA provided architectural, landscape architecture, engineering, survey, and construction administration services to the grounds and entrance of the historic Reckord Armory in Bel Air, Md. The solution allows for handicapped access to the building and creates a pocket park for gatherings and passive use. This effort provides for the full use of the armory building and the many services it provides. It also provides new gathering areas, a platform for performances, seating, landscape and a connection to structures in the rear of the facility to be used in the future. The improvements will act as a gateway to the new businesses that will be present upon renovation.
The park has incorporated many green improvements to enable the urban development to be constructed with minimal impact to the environment. Permeable pavers are the dominant paving, allowing storm water to filter to an underground drainage system. A bio-retention area provides storm water quality control for the roof of the armory. Other sustainable features are a green wall, an ample softscape, minimal directed lighting, renewable materials and site selection benefits of being close to services.”