Pro Landscaper Gulf February/March 2016

Concept to Delivery

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

GULF

February/March 2016

BIG INTERVIEW RUDAYNA ABDO OTAK INTERNATIONAL

NEW WAVE HOME SWIMMING TECHNOLOGY

CLIMBING THE WALLS VERTICAL GARDENS IN AN ARID CLIMATE

THE RADIANT CITY

ATELIER DYJG

P001_cover.indd 1

24/02/2016 10:23

ADS TEMPLATE.indd 1

14/12/2015 15:12

WELCOME

February/March 2016 | Volume 2, Issue 1

Concept to Delivery

GULF

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

GULF February/March 2016

BIG INTERVIEW RUDAYNA ABDO OTAK INTERNATIONAL

NEW WAVE

Welcome to February/March 2016

HOME SWIMMING TECHNOLOGY

CLIMBING THE WALLS

VERTICAL GARDENS IN AN ARID CLIMATE

THE RADIANT CIT Y

ATELIER DYJG

P001_cover.indd 1 24/02/2016 10:23

Welcome to the February/ March edition of Pro Landscaper Gulf, the only title you need to stay up to date with all the latest news and best practice in the region.

In this issue you’ll find all the great articles you’ve come to expect from the magazine, beginning, as ever, with the Big Interview, which this time around features former director of Otak International, Rudayna Abdo.

Rudayna has been in the industry for 20 years, and has a wealth of experience and learning to

Eljays44 Ltd 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 570 Publisher – Jim Wilkinson jim.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 570 EDITORIAL PLGulf@eljays44.com Editor – Lisa Wilkinson lisa.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 579 Managing Editor – Joe Wilkinson joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 577 Commissioning Editor – Philip Mason philip.mason@eljays44.com +44 (0)1903 777 575 Production Editor – Susie Duff susie.duff@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 578 Subeditor – Charlotte Cook charlotte.cook@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 594

www.prolandscaper.ae

P003_Leader.indd 3

pass on, particularly in relation to how she believes landscaping can be better promoted in the region. We are very proud to have her in the issue.

Dig a little deeper and you’ll find our selection of portfolios, which this month has a distinctly international flavour. Skip to page 18 for an insight into the working methods of UK designer Charlotte Rowe as she brings an uninspiring London garden to life. Next, by way of contrast, we have a report from the recent government-commissioned development in Yantai city in China, in which the project area is transformed into a much more pleasant environment for workers.

Last but not least, is the story of ‘The Journey’, a development for children, through which the designer’s intention was to bring a sense of adventure back to the city of Dubai.

ADVERTISING Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 588 Account Manager – Ben Cumberland ben.cumberland@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 571 Horticulture Careers – Amber Bernabe amber.bernabe@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 581 Managing Director – Jim Wilkinson jim.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 570 MARKETING AND CIRCULATION Tel: +44 (0)1903 777571 Subscription enquiries amber.bernabe@eljays44.com

Finally, there’s our experts pages.

Once again these offer a forum for two massively respected Pro Landscaper Gulf regulars, with Duncan Denley discussing the impact of Qatar’s Hamad International Airport, and Mark Laurence talking about green walls.

We hope you enjoy this issue, and that it helps you maximise your business in what is one of the most fascinating sectors in the world. We want you to consider Pro Landscaper Gulf to be your magazine, and invite you to get in contact with feedback, as well as suggestions for content you would like to see in future editions.

Enjoy the issue.

Phil Mason Committed to producing the best landscape magazine in the region

Design – Amy Downes Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd – Connecting Horticulture Pro Landscaper’s content is available for licensing overseas. Contact jamie.wilkinson@ eljays44.com

Whilst every effort has been made to maintain the integrity of our advertisers, we accept no responsibility for any problem, complaints, or subsequent litigation arising from readers’ responses to advertisements in the magazine. We also wish to emphasise that views expressed by editorial contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers. Reproduction of any part of this magazine is strictly forbidden.

Subscription records are maintained at Eljays44 Ltd, 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA, UK. Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Eljays44 Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, uncommissioned photographs or manuscripts.

GULF

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

3

24/02/2016 10:24

Pro Landscaper Media Partner

Special Events Business Seminars

SAVE THE DATE...

TUESDAY 15 NOVEMBER 2016

Largest array of exhibitors

The UK’s pe leading landsca event

THE FUTURE OF LANDSCAPING SANDOWN PARK RACECOURSE, ESHER, SURREY WWW.FUTURESCAPEEVENT.COM 52

Pro Landscaper / July 2015

FS amy.indd 52

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

03/03/2016 16:04

CONTENTS

February/March 2016

GULF

Volume 2 Issue 1

18 6

News Shed The latest industry news from across the Gulf region

EXPERTS 10 Doha leads the way

22

The radiant city

26

Journey to paradise

Duncan Denley on the cultural impact of Hamad International Airport

11

Climbing the walls Mark Laurence discusses how to help vertical gardens thrive in arid conditions

INTERVIEW 13 Rudayna Abdo

The former director of planning at Otak International discusses the major challenges facing Gulf development

PORTFOLIOS 18 The new modern

Charlotte Rowe uses formal planting and swathes of limestone to bring an uninspiring London garden up to date

www.prolandscaper.ae

P005_Contents.indd 5

13

Atelier DYJG took on a government commission to work with artists and help rejuvenate Yantai city in China

Cape Reed was appointed as designer and contractor for a children’s ‘paradise park’ off Dubai’s Kite Beach

22

PRODUCTS 30 New wave

TerraVerde’s Chris Parker shines a spotlight on SmartPools, the latest trend in home swimming to hit the UAE

31

Latest products A look at what’s new in landscaping in the region, from play units to solar lighting and marble products

34

Trading With Joni Withers, international sales manager at SureSet, discusses the company and the work it carries out in the Gulf

26 Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

5

24/02/2016 10:30

NEWS

NEWS SHED UAE government moves towards sustainable goals The government of the UAE has issued a report on progress towards meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

The ambitious targets were established at the UN in New York in September 2015 and include a resolution to end poverty and hunger everywhere by 2030 and promote peace, equality and universal access to education and healthcare driven by sustainable economic development.

The State of Sustainability report drew attention to the UAE’s use of cutting edge technology to achieve these goals.

The report was compiled in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal

Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and Dubai Carbon.

Najla Al Kaabi, undersecretary assistant for international cooperation at the Ministry of International Cooperation and Development, said: “The report will showcase the foundation that the UAE has built in the past years, and it will help us in achieving the sustainable development goals.”

Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, director of energy and climate change at Mofa said: “We don’t look at this as just reporting for the sake of reporting.

“It will be a tool to pursue what we are doing locally and a mechanism for us to enhance our work within the government.” www.un.org

Double win for Akoya Oxygen architects Dubai-based landscape architects Desert Ink and leading luxury real estate developer Damac Properties have scooped two awards for their work on the Akoya Oxygen sales centre landscape.

Desert Ink worked alongside its sister construction company Desert Landscape to create the installation in early 2015, landing the ‘Design of the Year’ and ‘Residential Exterior’ awards at the Identity magazine ceremony.

Managing director of Desert Ink, Duncan Denley, said: “Since the Akoya Oxygen master development

is committed to providing greenery and naturalistic surroundings to its inhabitants, Desert Ink was focused on providing a feeling of total immersion in vegetation.

“The local environment can be quite harsh, and as landscape architects we must be responsible in what we specify. All this greenery should not come at a cost to the environment.”

Desert Ink is aiming for its creations to become the blueprint for sustainable landscape design in the region. www.desert-ink.com

Capital Garden given makeover The 50,000m² Capital Garden in Abu Dhabi has been given a complete facelift via a new landscaping project.

New facilities at the park include two multi-purpose playgrounds fitted with swings, slides and monkey bars, as well as an extensive sports area with a

6

basketball court and football nets.

Capital Garden is home to a popular fountain, relaxation areas for families, a mosque and a restaurant. The main projects of the new renovation span a total of 8,110m² of the park’s grounds.

Capital Garden is the second park in the city to be upgraded,

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P06-08_news copy.indd 6

with the Mushrif Central Park being redesigned by real estate developer Al Ain Properties in March of last year. Seven other public parks were also developed by the municipality at a cost of DHS34m (USD9m).

The park is located in a densely populated area of the city,

and is open from 8am to 10pm from Sunday to Wednesday, and from 8am to 11pm from Thursday to Saturday.

Also known as Al Aseema Park, Capital Garden was built in 1976 and is one of the oldest parks in the capital city. www.gulfnews.com

www.prolandscaper.ae

03/03/2016 16:55

NEWS

Eco-dome, largest man-made tree to open at City Walk, Dubai

Three parks for Fujairah

A Dubai based holding company is to launch the first bio-dome seen in the region, which will recreate a tropical rainforest and showcase more than 3,000 plants and animals.

The Fujairah public works department and Fujairah and Dibba municipalities have begun a project to bring more family parks to rural Fujairah.

The first of the parks has opened in Al Tayybah, near Masafi, and there are plans for two more to open this year in Al Tawyeen and Siji.

The parks are in line with the municipality strategy to increase green spaces in the emirate.

In Al Tayybah, Al Tawyeen and Siji the parks will serve 5,000 residents and will be around 8,000m² each. Reports say that residents are appreciative that their desires for safe play areas for their children are being met. www.thenational.ae

The Green Planet, established

by Meraas, is located at City Walk, Dubai and is due to open in the first half of 2016.

The enclosed ecosystem will offer a family friendly experience that is both educational and recreational, aiming to raise awareness of the delicate balance of nature.

A majestic green canopy is to cover lush tropical vegetation with

integrated exhibitions and displays.

It will also contain a giant 25m tree, described as the largest indoor, man-made, life-sustaining tree in the world.

The building has been designed to embrace sustainability and has received the global LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.

The Green Planet is a first for Dubai and will add to Meraas Leisure and Entertainment’s portfolio of recreational, educational and tourist attractions. www.citywalk.ae

Hilton to build UAE hotel with indoor rainforest and beach Hilton Worldwide is to open its first hotel in the UAE – and the venture will be complete with a rainforest and artificial beach.

The Rosemont Hotel and Residents, designed by UAE based ZAS Architects, will consist of two 47 storey towers plus a five-storey podium.

www.prolandscaper.ae

P06-08_news copy.indd 7

The first tower will house 280 serviced apartments while the second will consist of 450 luxury hotel rooms.

The artificial beach and rainforest inspired landscape will be on the 7,000m2 recreation area on the roof of the podium linking the two towers.

Other facilities will include a ‘sky pool’ and two ‘sky lobbies’ designed to give the impression of floating in mid air.

Construction has already begun and the project, which is predicted to cost USD300m, is due to open in June 2018. www.hiltonworldwide.com

Dubai invests in tourism 2016 is set to be a big year for tourism in Dubai, with 16 attractions due to be launched this year.

The 119ha Dubai Safari Park is scheduled to open by October and will be home to more than 350 rare and endangered species, from a total of over 1,000 animals.

Architectural feats include the 150m Dubai Frame observation post; Dubai Eye, at 210m high, the world’s largest ferris wheel and Marina 101 Tower, the emirate’s second tallest tower and home to the middle east’s first Hard Rock Hotel.

Urban landscape projects include the 3km long Dubai Water Canal, City Walk Phase 2, Palms Park and the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk. www.visitdubai.com

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

7

03/03/2016 16:56

NEWS

Big draw to Sustainable City exhibition at World Future Energy Summit

Key contract awarded

The Sustainable City is the GCC region’s first fully integrated, sustainable community, located in Dubai. The exhibition of the city is proving a big draw for visitors at the World Future Energy Summit 2016 (WFES).

Opened to the market by Diamond Developers in 2014, the Sustainable City welcomed its first

A leading Dubai developer has awarded a DHS18.5m (USD5.03m) contract to construct and landscape the new Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) access points.

Developer Nakheel awarded the contract for the project, which aims to improve traffic flow and journey times at one of Dubai’s fastest growing communities.

There are around 20,000 people currently living in JVC, but the rapidly growing development is slated to accommodate some 300,000 people when complete.

The roads will be delivered by UAE-based DX Contracting and National Gulf Construction.

Work will begin in February and is due for completion in the third quarter of 2016. Nakheel has already delivered over 700 villas at JVC, with over 265 buildings, villas and townhouses either complete or under construction by third party developers.

JVC also features 33 landscaped parks spanning more than 4m ft² in total. A further 239 residential, commercial and hospitality buildings are planned. www.tradearabia.com

tenants last year. The city is becoming a model at the forefront of sustainable living in the region.

A spokesman for Diamond Developers said: “We are proud to be the first real estate developer in the Middle East and Gulf region to have turned a dream of sustainable living into a reality. The launch of the Sustainable City, and the

Two men to be deported for cutting plants Two foreigners are to be deported from Kuwait after allegedly getting caught cutting plants and flowers.

The plants were being used in the landscaping of the Sixth Ring highway. The nationality of the men involved has not been divulged, but the motive of the pair has been reported to be taking the vegetation to privately owned livestock farms. They were arrested during an inspection conducted by the head of the environment police in Kuwait City.

Kuwait has strict laws regarding the environment, banning any form

8

of abuse including littering in public.

The Environmental Protection Law was adopted in 2014 and aims at “protecting and maintaining the natural balance of the environment and its resources and combating the pollution and its damages, both short and long term.”

Kuwait is similarly strict on expats who break the law in any form or pose a risk to public order.

Thousands of expats in Kuwait have been deported in recent years for offences from traffic incidents to harming the environment. www.gulfnews.com

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P06-08_news copy.indd 8

welcoming of its first residents who are making their home there, is the fruition of years of conception, planning and development.”

The city is spread over 5m ft² and has been designed to focus on three connecting elements of sustainability: economic, environmental and social. www.tradearabia.com

New beach resort for Burj Al Arab Dubai-based Jumeirah Group is set to deliver a beachside resort to its luxury hotel and flagship property, Burj Al Arab.

The exclusive resort will boast 32 beach cabanas, 400 sun loungers and two swimming pools.

The Burj North Deck will be an exclusive man-made beach with a sun deck bigger than a football pitch. The deck has been designed at a shipyard in Finland by marine construction specialists Admares, and environmental standards have been kept as high as possible.

Planned to be in place by March 2016, the structure features six steel sections weighing 5,000t and is currently being shipped to Dubai. It will be lowered onto 90 piles that are already in place on the Gulf seabed. The deck was built off-site to minimise disruption to hotel guests, and it is planned to be opened later this year. www.tradearabia.com

GULF

Send in news If you would like to submit any stories regarding Middle East landscaping projects, floating tenders, contract awards and new trends in green design and build, please email them to PLGulf@eljays44.com or tweet to @PLGulfMagazine

www.prolandscaper.ae

03/03/2016 16:59

ADS TEMPLATE.indd 1

03/03/2016 16:31

EXPERTS

DOHA

LEADS THE WAY Duncan Denley, MD of desert INK, says the Hamad International Airport project should mark the turning point for landscapes in the region, paving the way for a more sustainable future

A

fter countless visits to Qatar over the years, I was delighted to finally experience the much-lauded Hamad International Airport first-hand on a visit to Doha earlier this month.

I was not disappointed. Banking into the airport over the extensive approach road was quite a sight, with a green thread transporting visitors via a series of landscaped islands before sweeping them to the impressive terminal building. The landscape was no less impressive from ground level. A ‘less is more’ approach has led to a simple linear layout of contrasting ground covers in neat panels at the formal arrival plaza.

I have no doubt that, on plan, the landscape architects at HOK, who designed the grounds, would have been encouraged to add more species, more flourishes and fiddles. Thankfully, such over complexity was avoided and the real magic unfolds as you leave the formality of the terminal area and begin your journey across the causeways towards the city beyond.

From its inception, desert INK has been trying to push a simple, sustainable approach to landscape, and it was thrilling to see living proof that this approach works on a vast scale. The landscape consists of huge swathes of grasses and drought-tolerant shrubs, which drape over a series of mounded islands, interspersed by 10

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P010&11_ Duncan & Mark.indd 10

occasional crushed aggregate panels, stone walls and sporadic tree planting – and that’s it.

Again, in words and almost certainly in plan, this landscape would appear over simplistic. A less experienced landscape architect would give in to the temptation to break down the scale, add showy exotic species and introduce countless unnecessary adornments and complexities, scared that users would find the landscape boring. What we see is a wonderfully expansive and fluid landscape, with grasses billowing in the ever-present coastal winds like fields of corn, nodding and flexing in the breeze.

LET’S HOPE THIS PROJECT MARKS THE TURNING POINT FOR LANDSCAPES IN THE REGION On my approach to the terminal the next day, I was able to experience more of this magnificent landscape and noted more well-considered details, such as a group of dynamic fountains which emerge from the sea in a bay adjacent to the terminal.

I noted a landscape maintenance crew at work and realised the real bonus of such a landscape is that it is inherently more sustainable than the manicured airport

landscapes to which we are accustomed.

Grasses may be clipped back twice a year and some occasional trimming of shrubs but, aside from that, maintenance crews should enjoy a relatively leisurely life.

No fancy water features, which inevitably break down and sit empty, no manicured hedges which require constant attention, and a complete absence of lawns and annuals which soak up resources like a sponge. All the materials here can be sourced locally and with ease.

We can all learn from this. Clients must learn to trust landscape architects to exercise restraint. Landscape architects should be bold and not shy away from simplicity. We should use localised assets to maximum effect, rather than imposing foreign ideas and materials. So let’s hope this project marks the turning point for landscapes in the region, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the profession.

ABOUT DESERT INK Known for its amazing landscape designs, desert INK is a registered design consultancy based in the Dubai Design District. With 13 years of experience in the region, managing director Duncan Denley leads a creative team that is backed by the Desert Group’s 27 years of experience and the vision of its CEO Michael Mascarenhas. www.desert-INK.com www.desertgroup.ae

www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 14:32

EXPERTS

I

Landscaper and arborist Mark Laurence discusses how to help vertical gardens thrive in arid conditions

n the October issue of Pro Landscaper Gulf, I discussed the benefits that green walls bring to an urban environment. In November, meanwhile, I talked about the over irrigation of landscape that tends to occur, particularly in arid landscapes.

Maintaining life in a thin layer of growing medium stretched up the side of a building may, after all, seem counter-intuitive to say the least.

With that in mind, the question is under what conditions can we make arid climate vertical landscapes work?

Year-round sun exposure on a Dubai nursery test wall

Sesuvium portulacastrum is one coastal halophyte

www.prolandscaper.ae

P010&11_ Duncan & Mark.indd 11

Water management Firstly, for living walls, I am a firm believer in the use of hydroponic growing methods over soil, compost or sand-based mixes. An inert, neutral growing medium does not become exhausted, unlike soil-based mediums. Nor do plants rely on the medium for their nutrition, which is provided via irrigation.

You might expect hydroponics to use excessive amounts of water, but this is not so.

In temperate climes, we use about 1L/m²/day, while tests in the UAE used around 5L/m²/day – far less than is applied to horizontal landscapes. That said, many of the most suitable plants for use in an arid region might not like having a consistently wet root-zone, as any living wall medium is likely to provide. Such plants are used to putting out long, deep roots to seek out moisture, and many of these will be halophytes (salt-tolerant).

capacity.) This is important for the long-term health of plants grown in essentially artificial and isolated cells, as per any living wall or container.

Ideal plant species If we want to move living walls – and landscaping in general – towards a more naturalistic feel using appropriate plants, we have to accommodate their needs. In this respect, I suspect the optimal living wall system does not yet exist. I have previously worked on trials in the UAE, and successfully established a set of plants that appear to survive full exposure all year round.

However, to move to more naturalistic planting we need plants such as low forms of Atriplex, Acacia prostrata or Heliotropium (not necessarily natives but halophytes that are appropriate in arid landscapes).

These also give us the possibility of using more saline water for irrigation without adverse effects. (Hydroponic mediums don’t bind mineral salts, as they do not have a cation-exchange

My experience in various parts of the world suggests to me that we have largely been using the wrong kinds of plants in our living walls for the past decade.

We need to move towards a low shrub-type plant selection for long-term effectiveness and durability. The Middle East has hardly started exploring the use of living walls, so now is the time to get it right.

New development I have two patented hydroponic systems to my name, yet don’t feel that either of them – or any other system – perfectly fits the needs of arid-environment living walls and certainly not the use of halophytes. I am therefore developing a system which I believe will work well for these conditions and am looking to test this in the UAE and/or other areas in the Middle East. Any interest from readers is welcome.

WE HAVE LARGELY BEEN USING THE WRONG KINDS OF PLANTS IN OUR LIVING WALLS FOR THE PAST DECADE

ABOUT MARK LAURENCE Mark Laurence has been working in the landscape industry for 35 years as an aquatic landscaper, arborist, landscape designer and living wall specialist. He designs and consults in the Middle East and the UK. Consultancy: www.marklaurence.com Living walls: www.vertology.uk.com

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 11

24/02/2016 14:33

indoor & outdoor fire features www bbq-warehouse com www.bbq-warehouse.com

www.gulf-leisure.com

enquiries@gulf-leisure.com

+971 43 791 390

THE ARCH ARCHITECT’S NUMBER 1 CHOICE! 40 year design life

Priming

Open to foot traffic in 1 hour and vehicular traffic in 4 hours

Bedding

Durable.

Proven. Trusted

Jointing

FIND OUT MORE TODAY Available in UAE from: Tanseeq LLC • +971 (04) 361 7199 • www.tanseeqllc.com W: instarmacinternational.com : Instarmac Group Flowpoint_Half_Page_Jan2016.indd 1

ADS TEMPLATE.indd 3

E: International@instarmac.com T: +44 (0) 1827 871871 19/01/2016 16:31

24/02/2016 09:54

INTERVIEW

THE

BIG INTERVIEW RUDAYNA ABDO

Rudayna Abdo, past director of planning at Otak International, discusses the origins of Otak, as well as the major challenges and opportunities facing development in the region

P013-016 Rudayna Adbo Interview.indd 13

24/02/2016 14:34

INTERVIEW of healthcare and educational offerings, alongside a diversifying economy reaching beyond the petrochemical industry.

What are the biggest challenges you face in the Middle East?

The speed of projects. While at times we may get frustrated by slow decision making in North America, it is often taken to the other extreme here, where things move too fast. This sometimes means there isn’t sufficient study or assessment of the implications of decision making. Indeed, consultants are pressured by their clients to move at breakneck speeds with the clients in turn pressed by market forces or powers that be to move at an aggressive pace.

THE BEST OUTCOME COMES FROM A COLLABORATIVE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CONSULTANT AND CLIENT

1

You’ve been in urban planning for 20 years – what made you want to take it up as a career?

I started my academic training as an architect but, by the end of my undergraduate studies, I became interested in larger scaled projects and the social implications of the built landscape.

I was also attracted to the multidisciplinary aspects of urban planning, so making the transition seemed the natural next step for me.

You grew up in Lebanon and Greece, studied in the US and Canada and have since worked in the US and the UAE. How do ideas and methods differ from country to country?

There are subtle and profound differences on either side of the Atlantic, such as the attitude towards density. In Mediterranean countries, it is an exception rather than the norm for people to live in single-family homes, even for those with an economic advantage. This is not the case in North America, where space is abundant.

The UAE – which is a very young and newly developed country – has incorporated practices 14

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P013-016 Rudayna Adbo Interview.indd 14

from both the east and west. For instance, early influences on city planning, such as the predominance of roundabouts to manage traffic movement at junctions, had its origins in Britain.

The ‘superblock’ city structure, meanwhile, is an American influence.

More recently, Vancouver in Canada has been touted as the model to emulate, with the formation of the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council and its resultant Plan 2030. This was under the guidance of Larry Beasley, Vancouver’s ex co-director of planning.

What are some of the most notable changes you have seen in the UAE over the years?

Working in the UAE for the past eight years has highlighted to me how unique this place is. When I was an intern architect in Dubai in the early 1990s, the emirate was still a young emerging economy. When I returned two decades later, I was truly impressed by how much the country had developed, not only in its urban fabric but also its social fabric. There is now an abundance

From my point of view, the best outcome comes from a truly collaborative relationship between consultant and client – one in which there is a true sense of partnership and respect on both sides of the table, and where both parties take ownership of the process and support one another. I find this latter condition to be sometimes lacking in this part of the world.

As a planner in Abu Dhabi – and coming in at the same time that the Urban Planning Council was created – I know how invigorating it is to work in conjunction with an inspired vision, supported by strong leadership and ample resources. The economic crisis of the past few years has somewhat dimmed that euphoria.

However, the scale and pace of projects here is still very stimulating.

What training did you undertake and what qualifications do you have?

I was an undergraduate in architectural studies at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the US, and achieved my Master’s in urban planning at McGill University in Canada. I’m a certificated urban planner in both countries.

I have been at practice in Canada, the US and the UAE in the private, public and non-profit sectors, including working for the American Planning Association. I am a comprehensive www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 14:35

INFRASTUCTURE DESIGN OF THE PUBLIC BUS NETWORK IN MAKKAH

INTERVIEW

BUS STOP CONCEPT DESIGN AND PROTOTYPES

2

3 February 2015

1 Rudayna at the Future Landscape Summit in Abu Dhabi, 2015 2 The design of bus service-related infrastructure along new bus lines in Makkah, KSA 3 Rudayna, a panellist at an affordable housing conference in Oman

make it safer, more comfortable, functional and appealing. Simply bringing transit infrastructure into transit corridors is not sufficient enough to facilitate this shift, so I think there should be a big rethink about how we use and design our public realm. We also need to keep a close eye on emerging technological changes such as driverless cars and advances in intelligent transport systems – these are things which could really affect us.

planner, but my work has focused on master planning, transportation planning and housing, as well as some policy work.

What is the business structure of Otak?

Otak was founded in 1981 during the depths of a recession in Oregon, as a multidisciplinary design company with expertise in design, engineering and planning. Otak is headquartered in Portland, Oregon. Abu Dhabi is our current international base hile e loo to open offices in ubai and Saudi Arabia.

Four years ago we merged with HanmiGlobal, a South Korean construction and project management company. We jointly serve public www.prolandscaper.ae

P013-016 Rudayna Adbo Interview.indd 15

and private sector clients from employing , staff.

offices,

How do you think the planning industry could be promoted more within the region?

I think a real growth area could be public transport systems. Public transit has the potential to be one of the major growth segments in the region and is one that is seeing significant public investment. Doing more to introduce transit systems also means e’re significantly changing the use of the public realm, which will mean a move away from private vehicles.

With pedestrian activity increasing in line with this, the public realm should be improved to

How did you get involved with the Future Landscape Summit and what does it involve?

I was invited to speak at the February 2015 summit and asked back as a conference advisor for the 2016 event. I worked with the event organisers and fellow advisors to devise a programme that addresses various aspects of public realm design, while bringing in a focus on technological applications.

Is all the work undertaken in the Middle East office for projects based here?

Given that e have seven offices in the U and one Middle Eastern office, the general practice has been that our Middle East office is dedicated to our local projects. It does sometimes get support from our U offices, ho ever.

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 15

03/03/2016 17:03

INTERVIEW

What do you find the most rewarding part of your job?

I love it when my team is humming with energy and passion for our work. It’s also great when we work with a client who is equally passionate and supporting us as a team – sitting on the same side of the table with us, as it were.

5

Can you think of one favourite project you’ve been proud to be associated with?

Otak was lead consultant for the creation of the Abu Dhabi Urban Street Design Manual. The most important goal was to bring attention to the ‘contextual’ considerations when designing any segment of a street. The idea as to flip the priority so that the most vulnerable users – that is, pedestrians – are paid the most attention.

I AM INTRIGUED BY HOW LITTLE WE HAVE CHANGED OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR BUILT ENVIRONMENT The manual was commissioned under Plan 2030, which aims to see Abu Dhabi transformed into an example of a walkable, sustainable Arab city. We’ve started seeing changes in street design and driver behaviour as a result of the manual, and our work has received numerous international awards and been referenced by the World Health Organization.

If you could choose your dream project, what would it look like and what would it bring to the region in which it was built?

Something involving a broad range of collaborators. I really get energised when I work on problem-solving with people from diverse backgrounds, such as technology, education or

4

Abu Dhabi Urban Street Design Manual

16

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P013-016 Rudayna Adbo Interview.indd 16

design – not just skills from my own profession.

I am intrigued by how little we have changed our relationship with our built environment, as well as how material science and new technologies can potentially be applied to that environment. I would love to work on the massive challenge to address the adaptability of our built form to the environmental, climatic and space efficiency issues e encounter.

What do you think the future holds for the industry in the Middle East? What do you see as the next big trend in urban planning?

Thanks to digital technology, the world is becoming remar ably fle ible in many ays.

This includes how we learn, communicate, read, work, and travel. There are so many options available to us today.

With that in mind, building construction and infrastructure technologies seem to be lagging behind in allo ing us to live as fle ibly as perhaps we could. We consume the same amount of space in the structures we inhabit, whether we need it or not, because e live in fi ed bo es ith infle ible boundaries. Unless we work at home or are homebound for health reasons, the majority of this space is used, at best, 50% of the time. If our needs change, we remodel or move – or we carry excess space or squeeze into discomfort.

This has resulted in a huge inefficiency our consumption of real estate has simply not kept up with our highly mobile, modern lifestyles.

Something like Airbnb (a website for people to list, find and rent accommodation has created a tremendous disruption in this arena, and the concept of movable alls and truly fle ible spaces within buildings is starting to emerge – but we still have a long way to go.

I think we’re on the verge of a massive overhaul in urban planning practices to permit more experimentation into not only new technologies, but new ideologies and practices in living. The Gulf is one of the most urbanised areas in the world, which gives us the opportunity to potentially be at the forefront of such changes.

4 Cover of Abu Dhabi Urban Street Design Manual 5 Central Market Plaza, Abu Dhabi, which is part of the redesign of the entire super-block according to the principles of the Abu Dhabi Urban Street Design Manual

OTAK INTERNATIONAL

Suite 1503, Al Masaood Tower, Hamdan Street, UAE Tel 971-2-621-2611 Web www.otak.com

www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 14:36

GULF

IONS AVA ERS IL EV

LE AB

THR E

Download the FREE Pro Landscaper app today

Leaders in design and manufacture of synthetic turf surfaces

GULF

t: +971 4 810 3111 e: MEinfo@tigerturf.com 1 Go to the App Store 3 Download the free app 2 Search ‘Pro Landscaper’ 4 Choose and download your issue

ADS TEMPLATE.indd 5

www.tigerturf.com

03/03/2016 16:51

PORTFOLIO

THE NEW MODERN CHARLOTTE ROWE Charlotte Rowe uses formal planting and swathes of limestone to bring an uninspiring garden in the UK bang up to date

PROJECT DETAILS London garden PROJECT VALUE Hard landscaping and lighting: GBP160,000 (USD225,600) Soft landscaping and planting: GBP70,000 (USD98,700) SIZE 650m2 TIMELINE January to July 2012

1

T

his was a large, long established 650m² garden in Wimbledon, south-west London, with a number of mature trees and shrubs, some in poor condition. The terrace was paved with old York stone that had seen better days. There was a garden house that was attractive but in the wrong place and a large lawn surrounded by beds. The garden was underused and aesthetically not on a par with the house and its interior.

The clients wanted a more stylish, classically contemporary garden with formal, clipped planting and they particularly wanted to include a fireplace, a dining area and a pétanque court.

Charlotte Rowe Garden Design created an upper terrace of buff-coloured English limestone with a long water feature cutting 18

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P018-021_Charlotte Rowe.indd 18

through it, surrounded by ‘cloud’ planting of Buxus sempervirens. The water falls over the edge of the stone down a 1.2m water wall of deep-brown polished granite. At the end of the garden, the water feature is mirrored by a long polished granite strip in the ground with a vertical monolith, which acts as a focal point when viewed from the house.

The partially enclosed, private fireplace garden with a western red cedar arbour and a log fire as its main focus sit below the terrace at ground level. Charlotte Rowe designed a wide, built-in day bed for which the company commissioned a mattress and cushions in outdoor fabric to match the cushions of the teak armchairs. There is also a store cupboard.

The full-sized pétanque court is next to the fireplace garden, which is planted with tall,

multi-stem Amelanchier lamarckii trees that are uplit at night and bounded by a row of box pleached Carpinus betulus. To fulfil the client’s wish for formal planting, a structural garden was created using ‘green architecture’ in the form of hornbeam, yew and buxus hedging to give a layered effect.

A limited colour palette of greens, limes and creams were used for the planting, featuring clipped Pittosporum tobira ‘Nanum’, Ilex crenata, Prunus lusitanica, Hebe parviflora angustifolia and Myrtus communis tarentina, interplanted with perennials and ground covers.

A number of trees were removed and replaced with mature specimens, including a Parrotia persica and a Fraxinus angustifolia ‘Raywood’, as well as a mature Osmanthus heterophyllus and box pleached and fastigiate www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 14:37

PORTFOLIO

2

SHORTLISTED

3

4

Carpinus betula. In total, more than 20 trees were planted.

Construction challenges ● The terrace to the rear of the house was 1.3m above the main part of the garden so it was decided to put the water feature on two levels. Charlotte Stone couldn’t be sure of the stability of the substructure of the terrace until the York stone had been removed, so test pits were excavated to ascertain what works were required. Although the existing retaining wall could not be used as it was neither structurally sound nor parallel with the house, the remedial works were not extensive. However, the provisional sum allowed for the terrace did increase. www.prolandscaper.ae

P018-021_Charlotte Rowe.indd 19

5

1 Island beds on the terrace with ‘cloud’ planting and reflection water feature. Timber arbour in background

2 Fireplace seating area with timber structure

overhead and horizontal screens on two sides

3 Row of fastigate Carpinus and low Buxus hedging

with subtle garden lighting glimpsed through formal row of box pleached Carpinus

4 Island bed with cloud planting and reflection water feature

5 Rough design sketch Photographs © Marianne Majerus

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 19

24/02/2016 14:37

PORTFOLIO

MULTI-STEM AMELANCHIER LAMARCKII TREES ARE UPLIT AT NIGHT

1

● In total, 13 different stones were considered.

Baycliff Lord, from Burlington Stone in Cumbria, had been the first choice and was ultimately what was used, but as it is a relatively expensive option the client wanted to explore other possibilities before making a final decision. The limestone the company specified for the upper terrace varied in colour from slab to slab so this needed to be selected and laid very carefully to achieve the look the designers were after. ● It was decided to use self-binding gravel for the pétanque court, which presented a few problems as it took two attempts to achieve the correct colour and texture. ● The design required the garden house to be uplifted and relocated, which was carried out successfully. However, the garden entrance was narrow and would not permit delivery of some of the larger, more mature trees. Rather than crane them in, the gateway was widened, by removing some of the brick wall, and a more generous gate was designed and constructed.

20

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P018-021_Charlotte Rowe.indd 20

2

3

4

5

6

7

www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 14:38

Formal planting beds outside the window to be planted with existing climbers and small evergreen structural plants such as a Laurus nobilis, Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Tom Thumb’ or Buxus globe

Two steps down to fireplace seating area with timber structure overhead and horizontal screens on two sides. Garden side to be kept open so view will be unaffected. Storage space for cushions to be built under the staircase and a large shelf or cupboard opposite the fireplace to balance this. Log store on either side of the fireplace. Retaining wall on garden side can be used as additional seating

Long gravel path leading to pétanque court, with two rows of multistemmed Amelanchier trees and possibly two stone benches in between, mixed planting bed on one side to Large planting bed with new large tree cloud planting next to the seating area to echo the upper soften the boundary terrace. Moving towards the low Buxus hedge away from the fireplace, cloud planting gradually mixed with perennials and informal shrubs

PORTFOLIO Formal lawn edged with long stone strips on two sides with low Buxus Tall horizontal trellis hedging at each end to screen relocated garden house Combination of hedging with tall Taxus (yew) to screen at the end, medium-height hornbeam hedge, row of box pleached hornbeam next and low Buxus hedging in front

Three large planters planted with clipped Buxus Two steps up Terraced planting beds with evergreen hedges such as Taxus baccata (yew) to create layered vertical green and soften the retaining walls

Sculpture point at the end of the main gravel path

Eight steps up

Existing Salix Seating area in gravel terraces with insets of stone on two sides to create sense of enclosure

Dining room

DESIGN PLAN

Long rill of water cutting through the hedging with a dark stone wall at the end on the boundary with some kind of water spout Existing Quercus suber Mixed planting bed with some existing trees and shrubs

Orangery

Existing Gleditsia Existing Sorbus aria

Eight steps up

Row of large fastigate trees and low Buxus hedge along the edge of the lawn adds formality

Three Existing Laurus large planters to be uplit for dramatic effect at night, visible from inside the orangery

L-shaped outdoor kitchen/bar with built-in barbecue plus access gate to the side

Staircase to be clad in stone to match paving

Gravel path edged with tall evergreen hedging, for example Taxus (yew)

Mixed cloud planting bed with evergreen small shrubs and scented perennials, including winter interest plants such as dogwood and hazel

1 Petanque court with uplit multi-stemmed

Outdoor dining area large enough to seat at least 10 people. Horizontal screens and overhead structure with pull-out canopy system to create enclosed ambience. Screen to have a ‘picture window’ framing raised planting bed behind, and additional trellis to the rear of that. Light fittings and heating strips to be possibly attached below the overhead structure

Amelanchier lamarckii with box pleached trees in the background

2 View down the garden from the terrace before works began

3 View across the terrace before redesign 8

4 Rear of the house from the terrace before works 5 Excavation in the early stages of the project 6 Lawn and trees before the redesign 7 Steps up to terrace before works 8 Lawn and house before the work began

ABOUT CHARLOTTE ROWE Award-winning London based garden designer Charlotte Rowe started her studio in 2004 after training as a landscape designer in Oxford.

Since then, she has worked on urban and rural design projects in the UK and overseas, including an olive estate in Northern Italy and roof terraces in Manhattan. Her work has featured in a number of TV garden and design programmes, in newspapers and magazines, as well as specialist books. She won a Gold award for her show garden ‘No Man’s Land’ at the 2014 RHS Chelsea Flower Show. www.charlotterowe.com

www.prolandscaper.ae

P018-021_Charlotte Rowe.indd 21

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 21

24/02/2016 14:38

PORTFOLIO

22

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P022-25 Portfolio Qinglongshan.indd 22

www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 14:42

PORTFOLIO

THE RADIANT CITY Atelier DYJG took on a government commission to work with artists and help rejuvenate Yantai city in China

T

he north of Yantai city in Shandong Province faces the sea and a range of hills 70m high, while there were major roads to the east and west. It was inevitable therefore that the city would sprawl southwards, and in 2007 the government took the decision to invest in the area and build a museum and plaza at a site along its southern edge. According to the brief, residential areas were to be in the west and south, with a park towards the east by the river. The museum was to be located at the foot of Qinglongshan Hill, covering an area of about 2ha, and adjacent to it would be Qinglongshan Cultural Plaza, 11ha in size.

Atelier DYJG was commissioned to build the plaza in 2009. At that time the site had been flattened and a 33m-high sculpture, designed by a local artist and based on the ancient Chinese written character meaning ‘dragon’, had been erected in the centre of the site as a visual focus. The design of the museum was finished and was ready for construction. www.prolandscaper.ae

P022-25 Portfolio Qinglongshan.indd 23

The brief The client gave the following requirements: firstly, the site should be a venue for festival events and performances, and serve as a daily recreational and attractive place for the public.

Secondly, through the construction of the plaza, the area should have a good link with the surrounding mountains, rivers and bridges, as well as promoting the construction of new urban areas located in the southern part of the city. Lastly, the client specified that the site should provide some service facilities.

Design and build A series of green islands were used to separate the enormous site into several reduced-scale spaces with different functions, landscapes and elevation changes. These green islands also connected Qinglongshan Hill and its plants, and created a visual combination between the hill and the plaza.

Parking was consigned to the edges of the site to keep the central area as open as

possible, while an event space was included in front of the museum. Four different types of local stone were used for the paving to produce vivid effects in the large-scale hardscape.

Sunken buildings Following investigation, it was discovered that the seemingly flat site was located on a gentle slope. This meant the museum would be slightly higher than the surrounding roads, while the edge of the site was a full 1.5m lower.

To combat this, two sunken buildings were created along the edge to solve the height difference. With two main roads in such close proximity, the site was also very noisy. The boundaries of the underground buildings were used to block the traffic noise, successfully creating a quieter environment for the plaza.

The underground buildings were hidden under an undulating grass slope. Another sunken area was designed close to the commercial buildings, creating an independent business area and subdividing the space, Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 23

24/02/2016 14:42

PORTFOLIO

reducing the sense of scale. Pavement, benches and plants further divided the sunken space for future outdoor commercial use.

Outstanding features A fountain was designed to surround the character sculpture and imply a dragon bursting from water. This also helped to integrate the sculpture – which was originally somewhat isolated – into the plaza. To create a symmetrical space, a second fountain was designed on the far side of the museum entrance. The fountains were designed so that the upper and lower pools formed waterfalls.

A series of green islands with wooden platforms and benches created spaces of ‘human scale’ on the upper plaza. Irregularly arranged tree beds and long stone benches

were used to provide a relaxing environment.

Alongside these features several small open-air amphitheatres were built to the southwest of the museum. Sculptural steel colour-changing lights run around the amphitheatres and unite them.

Lastly, the designer used the ancient Chinese dragon character throughout most of the landscape elements, including buildings, green islands, benches and lighting. The character was even used to form patterns on the plaza pavement.

Qinglongshan Cultural Plaza is a valuable lesson in how to successfully integrate several very different elements – the museum buildings, the existing dragon sculpture, busy city roads, the river and other surrounding environments – to become a vital and cultural urban public space.

BEFORE

2

3

4

Materials and features ● Local stone: Four kinds of local stone were used to produce vivid effects across the large-scale hardscape ● Bamboo: Anti-corrosive and easy to install ● Plants: Mainly easy-to-source native species ● Lighting: Steel lamps were an important design element Challenges ● The requirement was a large paving area, but huge hardscapes can come across as less ‘human’. 3D modelling was used to negotiate this point. ● Because of the long construction period, contractor and client personnel changed. This made smooth working more difficult. ● Sourcing good plants was difficult, and only

achieved through discussions with contractors.

1

(Previous page) An innovative lighting system creates the feeling of a stage through the lighting effects

2

The dragon-shaped sculpture was built by an artist commissioned by the government before construction began

3

Semi-underground commercial buildings under construction

4

Dragon-shaped sculpture, fountain and sunken plaza under construction

5

The original isolated sculpture

6

Green islands under construction

7

The pool surrounding the sculpture implies a dragon bursting from the water

8

The sunken plaza, the outdoor extension of the commercial buildings

9

Continuous nonlinear lights running throughout the amphitheaters, uniting them

10 The fountain, providing active and changing landscapes for the plaza

11 Green islands, pools, benches and plants, further subdividing the space

7

DURING

5

24

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P022-25 Portfolio Qinglongshan.indd 24

6

www.prolandscaper.ae

03/03/2016 15:52

PORTFOLIO

8

PROJECT DETAILS Yantai city PROJECT VALUE RMB57.5m (USD9m) SIZE 90,000m² TIMELINE Design period – 2009 to 2013 Construction end date – July 2013 Opening date – February 2014

10

9

ABOUT ATELIER DYJG

11

www.prolandscaper.ae

P022-25 Portfolio Qinglongshan.indd 25

Atelier DYJG was founded by Wang Xiangrong and Lin Qing in 2000. The o ce is en a ed in landsca e architecture ractice and theoretical research and has nished over landsca e rojects. t has an international re utation innin the a ard t ice sia aci c e ion a ard our times the ritish ssociation o andsca e ndustries ational andsca e ard our times and the hinese ociety o andsca e rchitecture a ard ve times. www.dylandscape.com

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 25

03/03/2016 17:04

PORTFOLIO

PROJECT DETAILS The Journey, Kite Beach PROJECT VALUE DHS4m (USD1m) SIZE 2,400m² TIMELINE June to October 2015

1

JOURNEY TO PARADISE Cape Reed was appointed as designer and contractor for an innovative ‘paradise park’ for children in Dubai

2

26

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P26-28_The Journey.indd 26

3

www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 15:03

PORTFOLIO

C

ape Reed was hired to create a children’s ‘paradise’ in Dubai – somewhere that children could spend time (without technology) and experience fresh air and adventure.

The park is known as ‘The Journey’ and is located just off of Dubai’s Kite Beach. The site covers a total area of 2,400m².

The final designs for the project were completed in May 2015 and the contract was signed in June 2015. Construction started immediately and the project was completed in excellent time despite minor setbacks along the way. The final handover to the client took place on 1 October 2015. The architect and lead designer were Denise Grobbelaar and Renier Neethling from the Cape Reed Group of Companies.

The brief for The Journey required a number of key attractions which included a variety of play structures, landscaping to resemble a jungle, a coffee shop and a ‘farmer’s market’ area for children.

A chance to cool off The play structures are as natural-looking as possible and themed to represent a jungle. The coffee shop is aimed at parents and guardians, while the farmer’s market creates a space for children to sell handmade products.

Both the timber and thatch used in Cape Reed projects are carbon negative and score highly on the solar reflectance index (SRI), which measures a constructed surface’s ability to reflect solar heat. This means that on hot days, temperatures underneath the structures can be as much as 10°C cooler than under a standard roof.

The thatched timber structures are eco-friendly and sustainable, whilst also being durable and used for a multitude of activities.

Large double doors and an elevated arch form the entrance to the park, implying the entrance to a castle. Upon entering the park visitors are immediately met by the shade and intended temperature drop.

A plethora of climbing structures awaits the children, including various climbing passages, ropes and walls, as well as elevated towers, monkey bars, cargo nets, slides, swings and sandpits. There are also mini ‘wadis’ – dry valleys or ravines which stay dry except in the rainy season. www.prolandscaper.ae

P26-28_The Journey.indd 27

1

Carbon negative timber and thatch structures

2

Miniature clubhouse and lookout tower

3

Children putting the park into action

4

Shaded pit-stop

4

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 27

24/02/2016 14:55

PORTFOLIO

5

Additional activities include lessons in archery, cooking and survival in the wilderness, as well as general arts and crafts. A miniature farm allows children to get close to a range of farm animals, with opportunities to milk cows, collect eggs and ride horses. Extra features comprise of a vegetable patch and herb garden, as well as mango, lemon and fig trees.

6

A real oasis The company’s design team worked closely with construction colleagues to create multiple enclosed areas which are used as restaurants, market areas and administration buildings, as well as the play structures and log cabins which form the core of the park’s design and appeal.

Local landscaping company and business partner, Escape Landscaping, was appointed as sub-contractor to fill in the blank spaces with vegetation and water features, seeking to create a real oasis in the centre of Dubai’s urban space.

The second phase of The Journey was completed and opened to the public at the end of January 2016. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm, which will be extended to 8pm during the next phase of development.

7

ABOUT CAPE REED

5 & 6 Aerial overview of the park 7 & 8 Commencement of construction

28

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

P26-28_The Journey.indd 28

8

Dubai-based Cape Reed has been established in Dubai and the Middle East as professional artisans and craftsmen for 10 years. As contractors they are involved in a wide spectrum of projects, both commercial and residential. www.capereed.com

www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 14:56

day

p d

Local distributor: Tanseeq LLC 路 +971 (04) 361 7199

ADS TEMPLATE.indd 3

14/12/2015 14:52

mark laurence design

tree care consultant surveys/assessment staff training in pruning resilient landscape design species selection natural/native plantings

UK based and working in the UAE & GCC +44 (0)7949 099195 www.marklaurence.com mail@marklaurence.com

WIMBLEDON PRIVATE MEMBERS ENCLOSURE

The Scotscape Living Wall system is flexible, lightweight, and can be applied to projects of any scale and shape, it is suitable for use in both exterior and interior locations. The patented water retaining fabric enables specification of the system in hot climates whilst supporting healthy plant growth.

TO DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THIS UNIQUE SYSTEM CONTACT:

sales@scotscape.net T: + 44 0208 254 5000 www.scotscape.net

SS_Ad_Pro Land_Golf_AW.indd 1

TES WORKS

ADS TEMPLATE.indd 5

09/12/2015 15:18 03/03/2016 16:38

FEATURE

NEW WAVE TerraVerde’s Christopher Parker on the new trend for home swimming in the UAE

T

erraVerde is leading the way with a new trend in the UAE swimming pool market: SmartPools.

SmartPools is a leading specialist in luxury swim spas and products. Its environment friendly bespoke swimming pools can be installed pretty much anywhere and in a range of sizes. TerraVerde has brought three of SmartPools’ brand new concepts to Dubai and is no the official supplier and reseller for the UAE region.

Current technology SmartPools can generate real river-like currents which can be gentle or, if desired, more forceful, making swimming an exhilarating experience.

The system is driven by a unique technology called LAPS (laminar aqua propulsion system), which displaces 30,000L of water per minute.

30

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016

This makes it a fully adjustable, smooth water flo hich has been described as a s imming pool treadmill’.

Materials Made out of AMGC (advanced marine grade composite) materials and coming with a 10year warranty, the product is robust yet lightweight, making the pool transportable and reusable. The product has been Green Tag certified, ma ing it one of the orld’s only green’ s imming pools.

Installation Arguably the most attractive proposition that SmartPools brings to the UAE market is that it has a fully configurable and fle ible installation.

It can be installed in-ground, above ground or partially in-ground due to its compact room size.

This means that nooks, corners and spaces which were once unused can be brought to life.

The general public, architects, interior designers and landscapers across the UAE now have this creative and versatile solution.

The SmartPools range has numerous practical benefits hich are applicable for all types of products. Its bespoke nature, custom settings and refreshing, oxygenated water are hat ma e them the pools that never end’.

ABOUT CHRIS PARKER Chris Parker is marketing and sales executive at TerraVerde, based in Jumeirah, Dubai.

Chris achieved his BA (Hons) degree at Liverpool Hope University in the UK. www.terraverde.ae www.smartpools.com.my

www.prolandscaper.ae 3

P030_Smart Pools.indd 30

24/02/2016 14:57

PRODUCTS

A look at what’s new in landscaping... eibe: Magic Cookie House This stylish and minimalistic Lapure aluminium pergola is a water-resistant sun protection roof screen which rests on elegant and discrete aluminium columns with no obtrusive joints. The pergola can be fitted to an existing wall.

When the roof is closed, the Lapure provides protection from the sun, wind and rain. The roof can be opened to enjoy the sun without having to move the structure. There are two models of the Lapure: one that drains water through side channels and columns, even when half-closed, and another model with a roof overhang beyond the columns, allowing users to enjoy as much shade as possible. With a wide range of colours for the structure and screen fabric, the Lapure blends in with any architectural style.

Renson: Lapure pergola

eibe was chosen to supply and install its second huge play unit in Everland, called ‘Magic Cookie House’. Everland is South Korea’s largest theme park. With 7.3 million visitors, Everland ranked sixteenth in the world for amusement park attendance in 2014.

The play unit Magic Cookie House from eibe’s unique system features a myriad of play features in two separate courses and attracts up to 10,000 children on its busiest days. In 2005, eibe supplied and installed two renowned play units in Everland called ‘City Mouse’ and ‘Country Mouse’ in co-operation with its long-term partner WON & TS Corporation.

www.eibe.de

www.renson.net

Ultrascape: Flowpoint Flowpoint, part of the British Standard 7533-approved mortar paving system from Ultrascape, is a flowable rapid-set paving grout. Flowpoint is designed to meet the demands of heavily trafficked areas such as town centres, hotels and shopping complexes. Fast and efficient to apply, Flowpoint flowable paving grout is suitable for most paving types and can be opened to foot traffic in one hour and vehicular traffic in four hours. Mixed easily with water, Flowpoint can fill joint widths of 5-50mm and joint depths of up to 200mm in one pour. With a track record spanning over 25 years, Ultrascape assures that when strength, durability and style matter, Flowpoint is an ideal choice for all paving projects.

www.ultrascape.co.uk

www.prolandscaper.ae

P31_Products.indd 31

Photolight: solar outdoor lights Photolight, a division of Photo-Me International Plc, develops and manufactures a range of solar outdoor lights. These smarter lighting systems provide real solutions to today’s requirements in term of dark sky policies and CO₂ reduction. Photolight uses only first grade components and emphasises strong quality control to ensuring its equipment can handle very harsh climate conditions.

The design is modern and sleek to fit with current urban and landscape trends. The solar lights ‘disappear’ into the landscaping environment during the day but offer a strong illumination at night.

Photolight provides different models, from bollard to 6m height, depending on the client’s project.

www.photolight.eu Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 31

03/03/2016 16:06

ADS Untitled-1 TEMPLATE.indd 1 1

24/02/2016 26/01/2016 09:55 09:53

PRODUCTS

Metalco: Stile molecular concrete collection Introducing the new Stile molecular concrete collection of urban outdoor and indoor furniture by Metalco Italy. The innovative new range of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) and high performance concrete (HPC) iconic elements, is designed to enhance the natural beauty of any surrounding. Superior technical properties – including durability and ability to resists to all weather conditions combined to fluid aesthetic and delicate lines, makes it the ideal collection for all types of public realm, parks, open and indoor spaces. The Stile molecular concrete collection, as well as all of the Metalco ranges, are available for trade through Wt Burden Middle East FZCO.

www.wtburden.ae

HAGS: Tango swing seat www.prolandscaper.ae

P31_Products.indd 33

Floristics Gardens LLC: Hand-carved marble products The craftsmen at Floristics ardens C combine great effort and attention to detail in natural marble or stone to create clients’ vision and designs into timeless pieces of art to be enjoyed over the years. The quality crafted product range includes classic or contemporary marble fountains and sculptures, majestic animal statues with realistic detail, hand-crafted benches, tables and sofa sets, flower planters and urns with stands, polished marble coffee or dining tables and structural or decorative pillars, columns and balustrades.

www.facebook.com/dubaigarden

The new Tango swing seat from HAGS allows an adult or older child to swing face-to-face with a toddler, enhancing positive interaction and engagement. With experience and expertise in design, HAGS aims to ensure maximum comfort and safety for children of different abilities without compromising the values of play. The cradle seat provides back and side support for secure positioning and the front is formed as a hand hold for the child. All components are made from durable and resilient materials, and the seat comes with three chain options of plastic coated, stainless steel or galvanised steel.

www.hags.com

Burnt timber coverings are perfect for projects where an organic and biophilic style is required. The black tactile finish of the hou ugi an cladding has a complex dimension to enhance any cladding design.

ShouSugiBan can be used for interior and exterior wall coverings. We have improved the finish of ShouSugiBan to produce materials with multiple finishes and bespoke dimensions for stand-out and landmark projects all over the world.

The Black Belt of Cladding

www.shousugiban.co.uk

Pro Landscaper Gulf / February/March 2016 33

03/03/2016 16:06

PRODUCTS

TRADING WITH JONI WITHERS SureSet’s marketing and international sales manager outlines the business and work it carries out in the Gulf What is your role in the company?

When I first started at SureSet I was a sales advisor for two years, answering technical enquiries and giving customer quotes for a wide range of projects. My current role is marketing and international sales manager, which I’ve been doing for almost six years.

I assist our international agents, answer enquiries and quote for international projects. I also manage the marketing team and oversee the website and all of our advertising. I love the variety of the role and love that I can put my creativity to good use.

What products and services does the company provide?

SureSet has been supplying and installing permeable resin-bound paving in a variety of colours, textures and materials since 1997.

All of our installations are covered by an 18-year guarantee, with a design life of 25

years. Our products can be used on a variety of applications from driveways and pathways to bathrooms and swimming pool surrounds.

What are the roles and responsibilities of your work force?

We have 33 members of staff working across different departments who take care of each stage of projects. These range from sales and operations to the warehouse and installation team. We also have a dedicated technical and R&D department to ensure we keep up with tests and new developments. In marketing there is a team of four of us, with roles split between our online and offline advertising.

Can you reveal some of your most prestigious clients?

In the past eight years the clients which stand out to me are our international agents Tanseeq at Mushrif Central Park in Abu Dhabi. We’ve also worked with the organisers of the 2012 Olympics, as well as Butlin’s, Manchester City Football Club and Jaguar Land Rover. We are affiliated with the British Association of Landscape Industries, where we recently won an award for affiliate exceptional service.

What does the future hold for SureSet? 2016 has already started off as a busy year, which is unusual for a January. This includes developments on our international projects. We hope to collaborate with Tanseeq at some events in the UAE. SureSet celebrated its 18th anniversary last year, so we are looking forward to the next 18.

34

Pro Landscaper / February/March 2016

P034_Trading With.indd 35

CONTACT Company name SureSet Email mail@sureset.co.uk Contact Joni Withers Tel 0800 612 6501 Web www.sureset.co.uk

www.prolandscaper.ae

24/02/2016 15:02

23 – 25 MAY 2016 DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE

THE INTERNATIONAL OUTDOOR TRADE SHOW FOR LANDSCAPING, INFRASTRUCTURE & URBAN DEVELOPMENT Gain market insight, collect new design ideas, source latest equipment and network with peers. A must-visit event for consultants, designers, architects, developers, contractors and engineers working in infrastructure and urban development.

Meet the world’s leading Supplier showcasing products from sectors

Landscaping

Infrastructure & urban development

Outdoor design & build

Water technology & management

REGISTER FOR FREE

www.theoutdoorshow.ae/SOE/register/ Organised by

Strategic Partners

ADS TEMPLATE.indd 1

24/02/2016 09:29

ADS TEMPLATE.indd 1

14/12/2015 12:57