One of Amusement Logic’s specialities in the theme park and water park projects it develops, is the design and architecture of artificial rocks. However, the company uses two systems in its construction, depending on the particular requirements of each theming project. Both systems, which are combined in the same project without any conflict, guarantee completely natural finishes, both visually and tactilely. Let’s see what they are.
-The most common method consists of spraying mortar on a mesh that forms the volume and to which a geotextile or similar material is previously applied, which acts as a background for the spraying. The result is a layer of approximately 10 cm thick reinforced mortar.
-A second system is carried out with the prefabrication of the mould or main volume (by mechanisation of expanded polystyrene); a thin layer of mortar of approximately 2 cm is then projected onto it.
The main difference is that, in the first system, the resulting rock is hollow and the final sculpting is carried out in situ, while the outer layer of mortar is fresh. In the second system, on the other hand, the sculpted shape of the rock, including its cracks, is defined in the prefabricated piece, and its interior is filled.
The first system offers the versatility to adapt to the physical needs of the theme park or water park; with it, it is easy to vary the shapes and adjust the dimensions according to the criteria of the artistic direction or according to the needs of the theming work. On the other hand, the second system makes it possible to decide the final shape of the rock during the design phase of the water park or theme park, and to shorten the installation time on site. In addition, lighter pieces are obtained.
Amusement Logic carefully analyses the theming projects in theme parks or water parks. To do so, it carefully studies their characteristics and the developer’s requirements. It then offers the most suitable theming solution, either through one of these systems or a combination of both. This ensures that the most convincing results are achieved, millimetrically adapted to each theme park or water park project.
By Pablo Vidal, Senior Architect in the Architecture Department of Amusement Logic
