What happens when two friends strike out on their own to start a company? They work hard, have fun, and grow into one of the largest and most successful aquatic architecture and engineering firms in the country over the next 40 years.
Since its inception, Aquatic Design Group has been at the forefront of creating waves of innovation in aquatic design and engineering. From its humble beginnings with a recreation facility for the City of Bellflower, California, the firm has expanded its footprint, diving into diverse markets such as educational facilities, decorative water features, hotels and resorts, athletic training facilities, wave and surf parks, and competitive venues worldwide.
The legacy of Aquatic Design Group is deeply rooted in the vision of its founders, Scott Ferrell, AIA, a second-generation pool designer, and Randy Mendioroz, a visionary leader in waterpark amenities and construction, who established the firm in 1984 with a commitment to producing impeccable architectural and engineering documents for waterparks and aquatic facilities.
A member of the World Waterpark Association’s Hall of Fame, Randy Mendioroz's sudden passing in 2013 was mourned throughout the aquatics industry, but his pioneering leadership continues to shape the industry today. His unique approach facilitated the integration of private-sector waterpark amenities into public-sector aquatic centers, aiding in operational and financial sustainability and enhancing user experiences.
Scott Ferrell, AIA, assumed firm leadership following Randy's passing and continued to steer Aquatic Design Group to new heights. Under his guidance, the firm expanded into new markets, including surf parks and collegiate and professional athletic training and recovery facilities. Scott's unwavering commitment to "Family First" and his dedication to excellence have been driving forces behind the firm's success.
Scott passes his work ethic as well as his talent for design on to his son, Greg Ferrell, AIA, Vice President and Principal Architect. "We invite you to join us as we commemorate forty years of accomplishment and ingenuity in aquatics projects around the globe," said Ferrell. “As we share our favorite projects and collaborations over this coming year, I have nothing but heartfelt gratitude to our valued clients, partners, staff, and cherished friends and family for forty extraordinary years of partnership and delivering unforgettable aquatic experiences."
Fellow Firm Principals Justin Caron, MBA, CEO and Dennis Berkshire, AFO, CFO, President continue to lead the firm into a promising future ahead. Both regularly present educational sessions sharing their knowledge around the country at regional, national, and international conferences. Berkshire is one of the leading experts in shaping the future of the industry through his involvement on boards and standards committees. Caron continues to honor Mendioroz’s passion and position the firm to be forward focused and on creating experiences that are centered around each individual project, and not cookie cutter designs.
The success of Aquatic Design Group is not dependent on the principals, however, as the firm continues to grow around a core staff with an average tenure of over 12 years. “Our employees are the reason that Aquatic Design Group is recognized as a leader in the industry and is so well regarded. Every single member of our team is outstanding at what they do” Caron says. “Their level of expertise, passion for aquatics, and the fact that they’re all amazing people allows us to take on more work, produce at such a high level, and create unbelievable places where people relax, play, chase their dreams, recover, and recreate.”
Over the past four decades, Aquatic Design Group has completed over 3,500 projects in 47 states and 32 countries, setting the standard for quality swimming pool and water feature design and consulting services within the aquatics industry. Notable projects include iconic landmarks such as the Palace of the Lost City in Sun City, South Africa, and the Venetian Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, NV.
The journey continues as Aquatic Design Group looks forward to building upon its solid foundation and shaping the future of aquatic design and engineering for the next 40+ years.
For more information about Aquatic Design Group and its projects, visit www.aquaticdesigngroup.com