The Landscape Architect’s Guide to

Southwest Duckpond

Your Guide

Located a couple short blocks from Washington, D.C.'s waterfront, this neighborhood park functions as a green counterpoint to its urban surroundings.��The Southwest Duck Pond was originally Town Center West Park, a part of the 1970's urban renewal projects in Southwest Washington, D.C.��The original design by Wallace, McHarg, Roberts and Todd has matured over time and evolved to provide a quiet spot among the city’s bustle.��

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Layers of Mature Trees

Park visitors enjoy a dense canopy created by layers of mature trees planted along the park's perimeter. The canopy provides shade and scale to the park.��

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa duckpond2_new

A Sheltered, Comfortable Location

Low brick walls and ample seating make the Southwest Duck Pond a sheltered, comfortable location.��

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa duckpond3

An Amorphous Pond

The park's central feature is an amorphous pond, which includes four fountains that provide aeration and soft background noise.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa duckpond4

The Duckpond's Residents

No duck pond would be complete without the feathered namesake.��

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa duckpond5

A Playground

A small playground resides on the high ground of the park near one of the entrances. ��The play equipment is bordered by a low brick wall and steeply sloped ground that provide a natural barrier.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa duckpond6

Alcoves

Small alcoves project into the pond for additional seating.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa duckpond8

Access Walks

Access walks are located at the corners of the park. The walkways encircle the central pond and provide access for cut through traffic as well as park visitors.

Image: Bethany Carton and Ron Kagawa