SHORTLISTED
GARDENS BY THE BAY Location: Marina Bay, Singapore Credits: Grant Associates
The project brief set three challenges: to create a worldclass tropical garden that would become a global attraction, to deliver a garden that would become a favourite destination for Singaporeans, and to showcase the world of plants to its visitors. The Gardens by the Bay’s design provides waterside walkways, themed gardens, play areas and a major outdoor performance space, all within a garden setting. The centrepieces of the gardens are two cooled conservatories; a flower dome containing a collection of plants from mediterranean regions, and a unique ‘Cloud Forest’ displaying tropical plants from montane regions. Another singular aspect are the 18 ‘Supertrees’, ranging between 25 and 50 metres
in height, which offer spectacular vertical gardens while also performing significant environmental functions. Grant Associates led and co‑ordinated the design team for the whole project from competition to completion. The Gardens by the Bay showcase the work of landscape architects at an international level, and demonstrate the importance
of well-planned and designed open space within the fabric of dense urban developments. The project exemplifies the potential for integrated environmental planning and design. Many of the principles and techniques used in the delivery of the gardens have the potential for wider application in urban and landscape planning around the world.
conservation and recreation experts) works closely with a wide range of other professionals, forming strong working relationships. The Commission has formed alliances across the public sector – in particular with local authorities and the voluntary sector – and also with private owners and land managers. On average two-thirds
of its government funding went towards grant-aided projects with these partners. Its flexible programme approach enables the Commission to advance countryside policy and practice. The work of the Countryside Commission – its ideas and approaches, as well as their challenges – are reflected both nationally and internationally.
SHORTLISTED
COUNTRYSIDE COMMISSION Location: Nationwide across the UK Credits: Countryside Commission
2018 marks the 50th anniversary of the Countryside Commission, the non-departmental public body set up to champion the landscape and public enjoyment of the countryside. Over the years, the Countryside Commission has made an outstanding contribution to the ongoing improvement of landscapes in rural areas. The Commission runs many initiatives and programmes and makes this public information, such as guidance publications and training, a central part of its work. Many of the Commission’s proposals have been ahead of their time at publication and subsequently adopted as wider government policy. This small multidisciplinary agency of landscape professionals (architects, planners,
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