middle east
JAN 2012
Plants-PotsFountains-Garden FurnitureLandscaping and Flower Arrangements
Email: sultangarden@zaidg.com PO Box 4756 Riyadh 11412 KSA Email: dubai@sultangarden.ae PO Box 181581 Dubai UAE Website: www.sultangardencenter.com
RIYADH: King Khalid Airport Road: Tel. No.: 00966 (1) 4655555 Thalia Street Tel. No.: 00966 (1) 2172022 Khorais Road Opening soon
KHOBAR: Coast Road Tel. No.: 00966 (3) 8590066 Amwaj Mall Opening soon
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
A Member of
JEDDAH: Al Andalus Tel. No.: 00966 (2) 6686666 King Road Tel. No.: 00966 (2) 6686666
DUBAI Jumeirah Road 1 Tel. No: 00971 (4) 3445544
Published by:
This Month EDITOR’S NOTE
MEMedia Publishing FZ LLC IMPZ PO Box 485005, Dubai, UAE Telephone: +971 4 4470927 Fax: +971 4 4470928 Managing Editor Nada Abdel Khalek Copy Editor John Hampton Sales Manager Boushra Dinnawi Art Director Andy Mondaya Contributors G. Allison Hedges Fiona Law Elif Bonelli Rochelle Greayer Mario Pisani Jimena Martignoni Eman Kamel Printed by Al Nisr Publishing LLC Webmaster www.pdinventive.com Landscape is distributed free of charge in KSA, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Eqypt, and Lebanon by Emirates Post UAE
L
The end of a year of change
ast January marked what will go down in history, as the beginning of a revolution in the Middle East. We can all say that we witnessed it as the first stone was thrown in Tunisia then Egypt, Yemen and Libya and Syria. No doubt the unrest will continue into 2012 but we can only hope that this year brings an end to the uncertainties and upheavals that have engulfed the whole region on both a political and business front. As we take the time to briefly reflect on 2011, and what it meant for the entire Middle East we can only hope that the challenges ahead are met with a renewed energy and spirit as a resulted of the many lives sacrificed over the past year. Only time will tell if the winds of change have altered the region’s business and political landscape for the better or worst. Either way it was remarkable to witness the energy and raw passion of the Arab youth that galvanized the social media into action and reignited the believe that the Middle East region as a whole is buzzing with creativity and innovative approaches that will slowly represent itself in all aspects of the our community life. Let’s hope that this energy and enthusiasm can be used in other ways in the year ahead, to literally transform the region’s landscape and put environmental issues at the top of the agenda for 2012, in order to prevent climate change and water shortages that will affect us all in the not too distant future. Till we meet again, and as Landscape Magazine January 2012 issue goes to press we take the time to wish all of our readers, staff and numerous supporters a happy and peaceful New Year. God Bless you all!
Nada Abdel Khalek For free subscription and to view the magazine please visit our website:
www.landscape-me.com
The First Specialised Landscape magazine in the Middle East I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
Contents January 2012- Issue 55
44 16 6 10 16 24 34 40 44
IFLA 'On a bigger scale' Rooftops in Abu Dhabi
Birth of a wave Residence in Malinalco
Women in landscape St. Luke's School Holstebro, Denmark
10
24
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
IRRIGATION
K-RAIN MINIPRO
™
13003
THE NEXT GENERATION OF PROFESSIONAL ROTORS. FEATURES/BENEFITS
5 Year Trade Warranty- Factory support up to five years after purchase.
Revolutionary Patented Easy Arc Set- Easily adjusted from the top with a flat blade screwdriver.
2N1 Adjustable from 40° to 360°- Provides a part circle arc rotation and reversing full circle rotation in one.
Patented Arc Set Degree Markings- Shows the degree of adjustment with the point of an arrow on the top cover.
Arc Set Adjustment Clutch- Adjustment screw slot contains a clutch mechanism to prevent damage to the gears from over adjusting.
Time Proven Patented Reversing Mechanism- Assures continuous reverse and return…over a 20 year history.
Ratcheting Riser- Easily adjust your left stop position by turning the riser.
Wide Selection of Nozzles- Provides flexibility in system design to achieve matched precipitation.
Heavy Duty Rubber Cover- Protects against physical injury and reduces liability.
Optional Check Valve- Prevents low head drainage, saves water and reduces liability.
MODELS
SPECIFICATIONS
13001
MiniPro Standard
RCW
Reclaimed Water Use
EASYARC
Other Options: Add to Part Number EASYARC SETTING EASY ARC SETTING
Arc Selection 40O to 360O
■ Inlet: 1/2” Female Threaded NPT ■ Arc Adjustment Range: 40°to 360° ■ Flow Range: .75-3.3 GPM ■ Pressure Rating: 20-70 PSI ■ Overall Height (Popped Down): 6” ■ Recommended Spacing: 17’ to 28’ ■ Radius: 17’ to 30’ ■ Nozzle Trajectory: 26° ■ Riser Height: 4” rate of .75 to 3.3 GPM (2.84 to 12.5 LPM).
Adjust From Left Stop IRRIGATION SOLUTIONS WORLDWIDE™
Intelligent Irrigation Solutions
A Complete Range of Quality Products for the Irrigation Professional • Micro Irrigation • Bubblers • Sprays • Rotors • Sprinklers • Automation Products • Hydraulic Control Valves • Fountains & Aerators • Filtration • Fertilizer Injection • Back Flow Protection • Mist Cooling • Hose End I www.landscape-me.com I August 2011 P.O. Box 16781 Jebel All, United Arab Emirates • Tel.: 971-4-2221217 • Fax: 971-4-2289130. I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012 Email: fitcoind@emirates.net.ae • Website: www.fitcoirrigation.com
News & Events PALA, UAE PALA-UAE (Philippine Association of Landscape Architects – UAE Chapter) is a professional, non-profit and under-registered association of Filipino Landscape Architects based in the UAE. Most of its members are registered practitioners of Philippine Association of Landscape Architect (PALA), the national organization representing the profession in the Philippines, where the UAE chapter has derived its name from. Composed of licensed/registered and under-board graduates alike, this informal association was conceived to support the unique needs of its members.
A
fter a series of get-together parties held during the peak of construction period in the country, this group of approximately 25 members was unofficially established in March 2009 when a figurehead of the group was elected by the majority. As an off-shoot, a coregroup was organized to help structure the growing demands of the association. What’s going on? Although the association is still in its infant status, the group since the time of inception has already engaged in numerous activities that promote professional growth, that enhance experience in the UAE through camaraderie, and that has affected others in showing care for the environment. These events include Mamzar Corniche Clean-up, Abu Dhabi Mangrove Eco-Tour, Hatta Pools camping, Sketch-Up lectures, Board Exam practical review for licensure or under-board takers, team building and quarterly dinners. These events were designed to build professional and personal growth while building relationships between its members. PALA UAE aims to promote itself to others through positive impact. Other Filipino landscape architects working in other countries are actually inspired by this association in the UAE, proving that Filipino landscape architects can have a positive contribution to their respective host countries. The Challenges: The economic crisis in the region has greatly affected the size of the group. Lately, the number of members of PALA-UAE has been dwindling down due to the fact a significant number of the members have gone back to the Philippines for good and the others in Singapore and Australia hired by other LA firms. Fortunately, the core group is still focused in its visions and they are still being carried out as
planned. Previously, majority of the members resided in Dubai so it was more convenient to pool the group together whenever there are gatherings but now a lot have been relocated to Abu Dhabi. This major change in proximity amongst its members is a major concern for the group and the core group ensures that this concern is being addressed constantly. The group however remains intact regardless of these challenges. The Future There is still a landscape of events lined-up for the members until the end of the year. Indoor lectures during the summer months and outdoor activities during the cooler months. Despite the busy schedule of everyone, the core group constantly reviews past and future events. In the end, each event becomes not just a learning experience but a bonding gateway for the whole association to remain steadfast. (Currently, PALA-UAE is considering to be fully registered under the Philippine Professional Organizations, an official entity under the tutelage of the Philippine Consulate. Besides the recognition of the consulate, the membership in this group could mean the possibility of hosting a landscape architecture licensure examination. This would mean increased chances for qualified, Filipino UAE-based landscape practitioners to become registered landscape architects. This will also give assurance to the host nation - the UAE, to have Filipino landscape architects that have been certified to practice the profession responsibly, and with high standards. PALA-UAE has a facebook page: PALAuae Any updates, events and photos about the group are always posted in the mentioned website.)
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
Landscape I www.landscape-me.com I December I www.landscape-me.com I January2010 2012
TM
Make Your Dreams Come true
HOT TUBS
beachcomber
Ye
High quality Canadian product Indoor & outdoor designs Under ground & above ground installation Life time Warranty on acrylic body
Why Beachcomber Hot tubs?
No buried pipes. No pump room needed. Ten times the water filtration clarity of sand filters "Do it yourself" maintenance with least amount of effort Custom made to fit in the tightest areas Variety of options and facilities for Massage & Sports
Why Desjoyaux Swimming pools?
P.O. Box: 48473, Dubai, UAE, Tel: 04 2676830, Fax 04 2676832 E-mail: admin@alkharafipools.ae
A name you can rely on
Al Kharafi Swimming Pools
Warran
10ars ty
News & events
On a bigger scale Over 1300 landscape architects attended the 48th IFLA World Congress of the International Federation of Landscape Architects. Hailing from over 72 countries across the world, it was a convention like no other.
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
Throughout the conference there were several pre-congress meetings of the IFLA World Council and the Committees of IFLA, including three conference days in the Kongresshaus Zürich, with eight key note speeches in the mornings and over 116 presentations in the afternoons. A platform of current research was presented by a number of different universities and research institutes during the event as well as the inaugural meeting of the initiative “Green City Switzerland”.
stripe background.indd
1
The event was organized by the Federation of Swiss Landscape Architects and the City of Zurich’s Office of Parks and Open Spaces. Both institutions did not realize the sheer volume of work that was required to hold the event when they were selected to organize the congress three years ago. The response amongst the participants, the exhibitors and guests was overwhelming. One could not imagine a better calling card for Switzerland, the beauty of its countryside and the people living there.
The park benches in the lobby were replaced every night by other types of furniture.
7/5/11
3:47:06 PM
About half of the 1300 participants were students or graduates.
Scales of Nature – From Urban Landscapes to Alpine Gardens Bearing the name “Scales of Nature”, the 48th IFLA World Congress in Zurich was devoted to the fluctuating range of topics between artificial and grown nature to the sustainable development of the landscape for a more enhanced quality of life. While the first day was about urban landscapes, the second day of the Congress dealt with the peri-urban phenomenon in urban agglomerations and the third day concerned specific issues relating to rural land and its changes. At the forefront was a debate on the general concept of landscape, which encompassed all facets of the environment and the interaction between man, nature and landscape. In particular, the organizers strived to have an inspiring exchange between landscape architects working in research, planning and design.
The student design competition generated an unprecedented number of 360 entries.
The posters drew a large audience during coffee breaks.
There were several presentations given at the event, the first was titled: ‘Why and how history matters? – Theory and history,’ by Dr. lic. phil. I. Annemarie Bucher, which discussed papers on ‘Dialectics of history and design in landscape architecture,’ I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
News & events by R. Fabiani Giannetto, ‘Learning from the vernacular – environmental design in Iran,’ by N. Salahesh and ‘Developing a framework for more active engagement with history in landscape design’ by C. Hindes. In addition, the presentation detailed, ‘Why and how history matters?’ discussed case studies by Dr. lic. Phil.I. Annemarie Bucher, in reference to water scales as well as a presentation of Damascus and Granada, a cultural continuity by F. Del Corral. Dr Johannes Stoffler gave a presentation on the ‘Conservation of historic gardens,’ which highlighted the conservation of Calgary’s historic landscapes, by M. Reid and discussed a case study of the historic gardens of Shiraz, Iran by P. Eshrati. A presentation titled, Food Urbanism 1defining the parameters of and for the movement by Craig Versone was given to explain the CPUL City, an evolving design strategy and case for food urbanism – A. Viljoen. It highlighted urban agriculture as an instrument of sustainable city planning and discussed a case study from Toronto, Canada by M. Jäggi as well as Street food: A cultural interaction by M. T. Fonseca and Sustainable Subsistence, Bringing people and producer together by M. Lehrer. The second presentation of Food Urbanism depicted the terms of intervention, pilot projects and design approaches and was given by Craig Verzone. It detailed food and urban design and focused on the scales of research highlighting the Casablanca case by C. Kasper. An insight into Farming in parks, Loutet Farm pilot project, city of North Vancouver, B.C. Canada was given by D. Roehr.
A presentation discussing publicly accessible urban spaces in between public and private interests was given by Dr. Juliane Pegels. The topics discussed included, Urban spaces in between public and private activities revealing findings of the STARS project and insights into STARSmulti by U. Berding. As well as the discussion of commercial space to commercial set design, the opportunities and constraints arising from the private production of public space in Santiago, Chile by E. Schlack Fuhrmann and balancing security and social sustainability in the landscape by D. Mazonem. stripe background.indd
1
Another presentation titled: Models of co-producing publicly accessible urban spaces was given by Dr. Juliane Pegels. It presented papers on the ‘Irwell River Park: Reclaiming Manchester’s
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
lost river’ by E. Fox, ‘Partnerships for public space: Three paradigms in New York City’ by A. Benepe and ‘Durrës waterfront revitalization project: An urban development challenge for public and private domain(s)’ by V. Koçi. The following presentations were given at the IFLA conference among others: • Densification of urban green space for a landscape of comfort – Access, perception and preferences – Sociocultural differences – lic. phil. Petra Hagen Hodgson and dipl. geogr. Heidi Kaspar • Densification of urban green space for a landscape of comfort – Landscapes of comfort within a dense urban fabric – lic. phil. Petra Hagen Hodgson and dipl. geogr. Heidi Kaspar
• Densification of urban green space for a landscape of comfort – Acknowledgement of user’s different preferences – lic. phil. Petra Hagen Hodgson and dipl. geogr. Heidi Kaspar • Recreational spaces for tomorrow’s cities – Planning approaches and strategies – Dipl. Ing. FH Jasmin Dallafior • Peri-urban spaces, their functions and aesthetics in relationship to urban centers – Almut Jirku • Urban agriculture and its contribution towards dealing with problems in the periphery of agglomerations – Almut Jirku • Strategies and design approaches for peri-urban areas – Prof. Joachim Kleiner • Peri-urban areas – Traditional qualities and broken aesthetics – Prof. Joachim Kleiner • Strategies for peri-urban areas – On our way to peri-urban farming? –lic. phil. Gertraud Dudler-von Piechowski • Multi-functional use of temporary open spaces in densified urban environments – Karin Hindenlang • Green traffic network – Urs Walter • Waterscape experiment – Visions of integrated landscapes, watercourses and cities that belong together – I – Stefan Rotzler • Landscape planning for national and nature parks – Requirements and success factors – Prof. Dr. Margrit Mönnecke • Waterscape experiment – Visions of integrated landscapes, watercourses and cities that belong together – I – Stefan Rotzler • Managing valuable landscapes – Approaches and instruments – Prof. Dr. Margrit Mönnecke • Landscape planning for national and nature parks – Requirements and success factors – Prof. Dr. Margrit Mönnecke • Sustainable energy landscapes 2.0 – Design practice – DipLA Tim Kaysers • Biodiversity in the city: Enriching urban life and work – Determinants for enhancing urban biodiversity and designing eco-logically resilient green spaces – Bettina Tschander • Green strategies – Axel Fischer
7/5/11
3:47:06 PM
www.ifla2011.com/proceedings
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
Rooftop Gardens
Dancing on the rooftops in Abu Dhabi stripe background.indd
1
By Steven Velegrinis, Urban Design Practice Leader, Woods Bagot
Woods Bagot's award winning Tawazun Office in Abu Dhabi, the investment company created by the Offset Program Bureau, established to support economic diversification in the UAE and manage the country’s defence industry. The new office for Tawazun occupies the top two floors and roof of the Al Mammoura Building in Abu Dhabi as well as the rooftop area.
10
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
stripe background.indd
1
7/5/11
3:47:06 PM
T
he roof environment was a most inhospitable one and had not been designed to support a roof garden. In summer roof temperatures in excess of 70 degrees centigrade occurred prior to the development. Accordingly the entire garden needed to minimise weight, structure, water use and mask the unsightly elements of the structure while substantially reducing temperatures. Overall the tenancy has been treated with a hospitality touch, much like a glamourous boutique hotel. This aesthetic also extends to the rooftop staff recreational area which includes reflection ponds, sunken seating, a library, a dining area and a garden. A new internal staircase between the two floors and the rooftop helps to physically link the spaces and provides direct access for staff. In order to ensure a reasonable level of thermal comfort a large louvered parasol is constructed over much of the roof garden area, substantially reducing thermal heat gain. I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
11
Rooftop Gardens Continuing the linearity of the floor materials for the adjacent interior dining area the roof deck, materials were varied to create a barcode pattern that runs horizontally and continues vertically up the parapet wall. The wall itself includes planters sunken into and projecting from the walls to break down the mass of the parapet structures and make them part of the roof garden experience. The projecting planters provide a dynamic ‘dancing’ quality to the vertical elements, animating an otherwise negative feature. The barcode strips are expressed in a recycled timber/PET composite and synthetic turf to create vivid contrasting patterns. These materials were chosen both for their sustainability and lifecycle benefits, but also because they manage to substantially reduce heat gain and ambient temperatures without requiring water. The five large planters built up from the roof slab contain olive and lemon trees and also provide outdoor seating. Aside from being tolerant of the hot windy conditions they have cultural relevance for the region and are productive fruiting plants in the spirit of oases planting. Other planting is dominated by lower water-consuming shrubs and groundcovers purposely combined to add colour and visual interest.
12
To enable landscape treatments and minimise damage to existing structures and waterproofing the entire system is built upon a suspended steel structure allowing the system to be demountable. This also allows for the pre-existing Building Maintenance Unit to continue operation without restriction. While Estidama generally discourages Roof Gardens largely because of their water consumption the Tawazun Roof Garden achieves significant thermal insulation without excessive use of water. In doing so it does what roof gardens do best – substantially reduce urban heat island effect without compromising overall water consumption.
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
A restrained use of water occurs to create the psychological cooling effect and draw the eye from inside to outside. The project therefore reflects an innovative response to extreme challenges of temperature, lack of load-bearing capacity for extensive landscape treatments, existing BMU infrastructure and limited water to realise a functional garden that is comfortable, cool and beautiful.
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
13
Rooftop Gardens
r¡ ~zD'¢ 9 |BxD' ¤c8¡(#' ¯ Êu U ÓÏèè ¬wM b*Ç rOLB Ç r d b ¬fM dGK sHO
®ÌÑU)Ç v Å q Çb Ç s dEM Ç Èc è W ÑUJ Ç W U Ç ÙèdA*Ç fJF ¬p c ÉÑbI Ç hI è ¬éuBI Ç ÉÑÇd(Ç ÊU b WK UA Ç W UMF Ç h U w qI Ç qLñ % vK W UO Éb u WO Ç WOM Çè ¬WOFO D Ç d UM*U q à s Ïèb;Ç ÁU*Ç s ë C ÉÏu u*Ç vM *Ç ÉÏèd Çè W Çd U eOL WOKL WI b ÒU$Å ®äUL'Çè W b F*Ç 14
ÊÇdO UNOK sLON éd _Ç ÊU ÇÑe Ç ÁU ÊU U è ÁU*Ç s q à WOL pKN æuK Ç W U{ Çë bB UNFL - b è ÖÑ_Ç ®êdB Ç åUL Çè WOFO D Ç d UM*U W UMF Ç W U Å q à s WLzUI Ç ÊUOM U o K b w Ç ÑÇd{_Ç qOKI è tKL Q åUEM Ç ¬ÁULK bOLB Ç v Å W U{ U ë U åUEM Ç qF& WIñKF W Ð u WOM vK rzU Éb u Uë C à `O Çc ñæà s ë C ®pOJH K s qLF Ç WK Çu ë ÉÏu u*Ç vM *Ç W UO ®ÏuO æèÏ ÍuD Ç ozÇb ¢W Çb Ç¢ l A U Çë ÑÏU ULO ÍuD Ç ozÇb oI% ¬ÁULK UN N Ç V æèÏ s Uë U Uë ÑÇd ë e ¢æÒÇu ¢ UN AM w Ç ¬p c UN UO d F ®ÁULK ×dH*Ç åÇb Ç nOH m ÍuD Ç ozÇb t eOL U e M s äÒUM Ç æèÏ s Éd e'Ç w dñ (Ç dO Q ®ÁU*Ç ã N Ç w UL Å w H b d dO Q oK) ÁU*Ç åÇb Ç bOOI r
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
w Ç W ÑUL Ç W dA Ç ¬¢æÒÇu ¢ fO Q ÙuM Ç r b ¬X è_Ç Z U d V J U QA à Éb *Ç WO dF Ç ÊÇÑU Ç w êÏUB Ç V J*Ç qGA ®WO U b Ç Ï Ç W UM ÉÑÇÏÅè vM `D è 5 uKF Ç 5I UD Ç ¢æÒÇu ¢à b b'Ç ®w u à w ¢ÉÑuLF*Ç¢ WLLB dO è Çë b WO U X U `D Ç W O ÒèU X U ¬nOB Ç wH ®WI b qLñ p Ðè W u W ÑÏ 5F Ç `D Ç vK ÉÑÇd(Ç UNKL Q WI b(Ç X U ¬ÇcJ ®ÁUA Ç q WOM Çè qI Ç YO s nOH v Å W U ÁUM Ç d UM V v Å UL ÁU*Ç åÇb Çè u vK ÉÑÇd(Ç ÊU ÑÏ iOH l W O I Ç ®wKF ñ d Q *Ç pK*Ç WK UF r ¬W U ÉÑuB ®r pO u âbM t Q è W UOC Ç s W LK æUJ*Ç v Å qBO w UL'Ç qOBH Ç Çc b 1 qLF Ç r UD ÕU)Ç `D Ç vK w UL Ç W U b UI è W U Uë d sLC êc Çè b U ®WI b è åUFD Ç äèUM Uë UJ è W J è `D Çè 5I UD Ç 5 b b wK ÇÏ ÌÑÏ ÁUA Å d u UL WO ÉÑuB ÊU U *Ç j Ñ w ®qLF Ç r UD d U *Ç äu b Ç W Çd Ç s äuIF éu æUL{ ábN WI b s d _Ç Áe'Ç WODG X9 ¬W ÑÇd(Ç WO U ÊU ÊÇÐ ÉdO WKE0 `D Ç ®dñ (Ç nOH w WO{Ñ_Ç ÏÇu* b Çu Ç bF Ç WK Çu q à s V dI Ç wK Çb Ç åUFD Ç äèUM æUJ0 oKF U ÏU ÏÇu*Ç w l uM Ç - ¬`D Ç W U s Uë ÏuL l U è Uë OI à êd WODO ÉdHO j/ ÑÇb'Ç sLC ®e U(Ç ÑÇb'Ç v Å Çë ÏuF UNM W U è æÇÑb'Ç w ÉdzU Uë B à t H W d& s Çë Áe UNKF è e Çu(Ç WK pOJH WH W UM Ç h _Ç nOC ®`D Ç WI b ¬W ÏuLF Ç d UMF Ç v Å WOJO UM b Ç ¢h d Ç¢ ®WO K ÉÑu qJñ AO æU U w ÉUO(Ç W U qJ vK WODO)Ç ÉdHOA Ç W d à dNE Ìd è çd èb ÏUF jHM Çè VA)Ç s V ñ d ÑUO Ç - ®WO Éd UG ×U/à oK) w UMD Ç YO s UNF UM è UN Çb fO ÏÇu*Ç çc vK ÉÑÏU UN _ Uë C à q ¬V ÉUO(Ç ÉÑèÏ æèÏ s äUFñ u vK ÉÑÇd(Ç ÙUH ÑÇ s b(Ç ®ÁU*Ç v Å W U(Ç W uMB*Ç ÉdO J Ç W L)Ç h _Ç êu % æuLO è æu Ò ÑU à vK `D Ç ÍÇu à s ®oKD Ç ÁÇuN Ç w b UI qJñ A UN à s ë C áèdE Ç äUL Ç vK UN Ñb v Å W U{ U W UI WKB Ç oO è U Ïu è ¬WH UF Çè ÉÑU(Ç d ñ c W M ÉdL ÑU à UN à UL WIDM*Ç ®ÊU Çu Ç W ÇÑe
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
15
Gardens
Birth of a Wave By Mario Pisani
A Garden overlooking the Pacific Ocean
T
he setting is remarkably evocative – a garden or more accurately the sloping terrain of this distinctive house perched on the summit of a hill along the coastline of Chile, with scenic views over the Pacific Ocean. It is no coincidence that the dominant imagery is that of the waves in the sea. The perpetual movement of the sea as Paul Valery recalls in his poignant poem dedicated to the Marine Cemetery is always ready to renew and repeat itself.
16
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
It is a movement that evokes the sweet dance of love which is the very origin of life. It is certainly not a coincidence that even our life originates from the sea. The garden is perched over a steep cliff that embraces a splendid beach. The slow, arduous path between the house and the sea is enhanced by the fantastic colour of the vegetation selected and planted on a fertile dune, rich in organic matter and well-drained, originally covered with low shrubs known as Baccharis,
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
17
Gardens
sometime referred to as “sweeps” for the distinctive small narrow leaves that resemble brooms. There are over 500 different species that are to be found in the Americas, particularly in the warmer regions of Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Chile and Mexico. There is also an abundant cover of herbaceous perennial shrubs that are resilient to the local climate as are the Eryngium paniculata. They are of a metallic blue colour, maybe a bit far removed from current fashion but blended with other plant species their presence is accentuated and enhanced. In fact, the English landscape architect Penelope Hobhouse has described them as, “The silvery or grey-blue foliage of the Eryngium that serves to accentuate the flowers in various hues ranging from metallic-blue to lavender-blue…. “The blossoms of these thistles have a spectral effect along the boulders and rocks, and are especially enchanting during sunset. Let them grow close to the Acanthus as a contrast with the foliage or a silvery border with hues of soft pastel colours and shades of white.” There are also delicate annuals such as the Schizantus; as well as the beautiful bulbs of which the most distinctive is the elegant Rhodophiala, even this being a native species of the Americas. This region has a very rich biodiversity due to the topography of the surrounding hills which trap the humid moist currents emanating from the ocean, contributing to the formation of dense woods in the ravines, giving life to the bush that
18
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
Our Quality Your Satisfaction pools ready in 14 days
Oasis Dreams are the exclusive distributors for French manufactured Waterair Swimming pools. Founded in 1972 with offices in over 35 different countries around the world, backed with ISO 9001 version 2000 certification and quality tests run by independent laboratories like CETIM & Bureau Veritas done on our products, has made Waterair Swimming pool become the ideal choice for smart people. Our integrated pool frames are made of extra thick corrugated steel with choice of PVC Liners, Steps, natural reconstituted stone Copings which are comfortable & non-slip, choices in filtration system with optional Spa and massage systems, outdoor showers, safety coverings, alarm systems and LED lightings. We also construct Concrete Swimming pool that offers greater design flexibility and can be constructed in any shape, size and depth. We can turn your pool dreams into reality in a matter of 6 to 8 weeks depending on the complexity of your project. We construct concrete residential as well as commercial pools of different types such as: Skimmer pools, Overflow pools, Reflecting pools, Infinity pools or Vanishing pools, Beach Entry pools, Plunge pools, Counter current and Excercise pools. Spas, Slides and Fountains or Waterfalls with Pools
OASIS DREAMS MIDDLE EAST LANDSCAPING L.L.C. Al Manara Street, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai - U.A.E. Telephone: +9714 – 3401734 Fax : +9714 – 3401735 Email : contact@oasisdreams.ae, Website : www.oasisdreams.ae
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
19
Gardens
Nolana Crassulifolia
extends over most of the region and which is interspersed with the desert flora that originates from the terrain a few miles further north. The landscape has been subjected to dramatic changes primarily due to grazing activities in the pastures and also due to real estate development. One of the main objectives of the project, which was the recipient of the second prize in the 2011 edition of the Tor San Lorenzo Nurseries, was that of trying to reinstate the original vegetation by
Cristaria Patens
Mesenbryanthemum Hispidum
20
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
the introduction of native species that grew in the same environment. Recently, some nurseries and horticulturalists have been pursuing this sustainable approach. This has caused many to travel for several kilometres to identify nurseries of vulnerable plant species such as Alstroemeria pelegrina and the Puya venusta. The garden faces the challenge of re-defining the landscape context of the house on a monumental scale. The landscape architects have
Transform your ouTdoor space 0VS WFSTBUJMF BOE QPSUBCMF mSF designs create an alluring ambience in the outdoors t 'VFMMFE CZ SFBEJMZ BWBJMBCMF DMFBO burning bioethanol t " WJCSBOU EBODJOH nBNF UIBU CVSOT for over 8 hours t /P PEPVS OP TNPLF OP TQBSLT no ash Fully portable, eco-friendly open ÀUHV IRU WKH RXWGRRUV
AZUR SYSTEM Trading LLC ph +971(0) 50 548 21 59 L \HL'LJVZTHY[ÄYL JVT
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
21
Gardens
Solanum Marittimum
Aeonium Arboreum
22
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
proposed a ramp, some 50 metres long and 1 metre wide as the only man-made element, simulating a canoe or surfboard emanating from the sea, and that riding along the crest of a giant wave, extends all the way from the beach to the house. The design concept is derived from the writings of the famous poet Pablo Neruda, who having lived along the ocean coast narrates how he observed a piece of wood coming from the sea, waited patiently for it to arrive at the beach and then transformed it into a writing desk from where he conducted most of his writing. The wave of vegetation, resistant to the strong salt sea-borne wind currents, transforms itself into a sea of blue flowers that engage in a dialogue with the foam and constant movement of the ocean. The garden is the work of architect Nicholas Cau and Ricardo Campos Walker, a graduate in Landscape Architecture from the ‘John Brookes School of Garden Design’.
Reinventing
To make your outdoor living environment a greener and more relaxing place CITISCAPE provides you with total landscaping solutions for planning and designing your surroundings; from site development to landscaping and irrigation works and nurseries as well as providing services such as garden accessories, outdoor lighting and maintenance with comprehensive landscaping care.
Landscaping Head Quarter – ABU DHABI P.O. Box 48303 Tel : +971 2 633 8228 Fax: +971 2 633 8010
Lifestyle
•
DUBAI Branch P.O. Box 72329 Tel : +971 4 329 8644 Fax: +971 4 329 8633
hardscaping ALAIN Branch P.O. Box 15242 Tel : +971 3 767 9311 Fax: +971 3 767 9366
www.citiscapegroup.com
•
nur s e ry •
QATAR Branch P.O. Box 24531 Doha Tel : +974 4 458 0848 Fax: +974 4 458 0833
•
i rr i g a t i on
SAUDI Branch – K.S.A. P.O. Box 6979 Riyadh 12836 Tel : +966 1 478 9993 Fax: +966 1 473 0544
A Member of:
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012 Email: info@citiscape.ae
23
Residential Gardens
A luxuriant residential garden in a mystic Mexican town By Jimena Martignoni
24
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
A Malinalco is a valley where its enclosing hills were chosen by the Aztecs to build a sacred citadel for “los guerreros aguila” or eagle warriors-the most important warrior class. The citadel and temple, whose ruins are now part of a significant archaeological itinerary, were settled as a defensive site, which strategically oversaw the whole valley. Although this region was one of the hardest to conquer by Spanish colonizers during the XVII century, they built an important monastery and eight churches that marked eight different picturesque barrios, or neighbourhoods, at the valley´s lowest areas.
ll these cultural components, along with the exuberance of the local flora native to this subtropical region, where the main reason for an American retired couple to acquire a residence in this historical town. They chose a typical Mexican house in a large lot and in addition, bought the adjacent vacant lot thus significantly increasing the total size of the site where they wanted to create a garden. Inspired by the Malinalco Golf Club, which was designed by Mario Schjetnan, they hired him to create the landscape plan. As part of the project´s program they established some defining conditions: a garden with diverse ambiances, a sports area and an exuberant presence of tropical and subtropical plants. Following these stipulations Schjetnan created a colorful and eye-catching garden yet functional and sober. As in his other projects, primarily urban large-scale plans, he seeks to take care of the water use and reuse systems. In order to respond to the needs of the garden he incorporated the contradictory conditions of this project: on the one hand the freedom that comes with any large residential plan and, on the other, the local restrictions of the city of Malinalco. As a result, he created
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
25
Residential Gardens
a water collection system that connects to the city water network, allowing for the water remnants to go back to it, and adds a spare well within the site. The water circuit starts in a small basin located on one of the sides of the house, right next to it and is then channeled by a system of “aplantes�, some of them original to the site, toward a small central lake; from here the water keeps flowing through these aplantes toward a citrus orchard. The aplantes are stone linear constructions which were historically used for water channeling and distribution and typical of local ancient settlements; edged by clusters of banana plants (Musa sp), bamboo or low shrubs and, at some segments, with complementary stone paths, they help to provide a quite
vernacular representation. In front of the main façade of the house another rock surface outlined as a terrace contains a small swimming pool, made of the enlargement of an existing pool. The lake was built at the lowest part of the site and the earth was reused to shape a subtle mound, or elevated garden, on one of its sides opposite to the house. This composition frames the lake with large masses of orange lantanas, which act as permanent butterfly attractors, groups
26
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
ADVANCED HYDROTECH A.Tech
The Intelligent Use of Water
The Water & Soil management solutions…
Quick-easy-safe compression and Electrofusion fitting
High-Grade valves from Austria
ISO 9001 : 2008 I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012 27
Tel: +971 2 6274818 Fax +971 2 6274817 • P.O.Box: 73878 Abu Dhabi, UAE • Website: www.aldhafragroup.com
Residential Gardens
of agaves and rocks found in the site. In this manner, the water reservoir becomes the most attractive spot of the garden, delineated with curvilinear gabions that alternate with strips of aquatic plants and grasses. The combination of the organically shaped stone pieces and the green material, either vertical elements or horizontal blanket-like bands, offer a perfect reference to local habitats and provide an ideal place for rest and relaxation. Behind the lake and the elevated garden, at the furthest point from the house, the project includes a small orchard of citrus trees organized in a geometrical layout and a small vegetable garden, leaning against one of the lot´s enclosing walls. The opposite part of the lot, at one of the sides of the existing house, is laid out as a formal area with open vistas and an adjacent tennis court. The large lawn
28
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
surface is delimited with short stone walls that defines subtle curves and are framed with banana plants, bamboo and canna lilies (Cana indica). Narrow paths with organic shapes lead to the other “rooms” of the garden, generating an intimate connecting circuit. All the compositions created within the site, characterized by sculptural vegetal shapes, picturesque colour combinations and architectural lines; recall the wonderful designs of famous Brazilian landscape architect Burle Marx. In this work, Schjetnan makes clear his admiration and knowledge of this master´s work. The guest house, which is the only architectural piece added by the project, is located exactly between the two main areas of the garden and appears in front of the lake as if emerging from the water. This floating surface leans against the edge of the lot and is facing the distant house; in this way, the new construction contrasts it very simply with geometrical lines and
WPC protects primeval forests. Our first objective was to develop the technology to create a composite wood superior to natural wood in order to combat the thoughtless lumbering of forest trees.
www.einwood.com
I www.landscape-me.com I November 2011
29
Residential Gardens
the traditional design of the existing one and with the organic shapes of nature. The public spaces of this new house are completely open, thus making not only the garden and lake become part of them but also the far-off landscape of the hills and the historic sacred temple of Malinalco. This Mexican garden, created as a flowing overlapping of intimate spots and open areas, all part of the same utterly visual composition, offers a small-scale representation of local environments and becomes a fabulous yet peaceful experience for those who spend any time at the site
30
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
Size: 6.635 m2
Date of Completion: 2011
Landscape Architect: GDU, Grupo de Diseño Urbano, Mario Schjetnan Project Coordinator: Jorge Calvillo
Team: Megumi Andrade Hashimoto, Silvia Rodríguez, Rodrigo Hernández Covarrubias
SATELLITE CONTROLLERS
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
31
Residential Gardens
)v ( ¯f sAf£ ~3 f Jvf~}Eb: f£ £~z E Á¡£ *1bEb £ £. (
jD uN ¬WI b(Ç w WO ÐU d _Ç æUJ*Ç l V UF ×uD)Ç WOM M ÈÇd áUHI ®WOzU*Ç ÈUA _Çè ÊU U M Ç s W d à W ÑULF*Ç WFDI Ç u è ¬áuOC Ç äeM lI 5 Uë U9 ¬ÙèdA*Ç UN U{à w Ç ÉbO u Ç dNE UL 5 O Ozd Ç WI b(Ç w IDM ÁvJ ®ÁU*Ç s o M t Q è ÉdO Ç åU à ÖÑ_Ç WFD bñ vK WLzUF Ç W U *Ç çc ÁUM Ç q UI ¬ÇcJ »bOF Ç äeM*Ç t Çu è Çë b WDO Ç WO bMN Ç t uD 5 b b'Ç rzUI Ç ãÇc êbOKI Ç rOLB Çè WN s ®éd à WN s W uCF Ç WFO D Ç d UE è
32
d UM*Ç rOLB l{u çU b Ç ¬æUM OO ®WOFO D Ç WOM WI b æUM OO QA à ¬×èdA Ç çcN Uë F ®WzÏU è WOKL p Ð l è dEMK W HK è æÇu _U ¬WI b(Ç ÊU U( W U Ç ábN ¬ÇcJ sL ºWC UM *Ç ÙèdA*Ç Çc áèd Z Ï wMJ ÙèdA êà l w Q w Ç W d(Ç ¬WN WM b* WOK;Ç ÏuOI Ç ¬éd à WN s è dO lL' Uë UE b èà ¬p c W O ®uJ UMO U `O U ¬WM b*Ç w ÁU*Ç WJ A ë B ÁU*Ç Uë O UO Å Çë d nOC è UNO Å ÁU*Ç WOI ÉÏu ®l u*Ç sL{ W U WL ¬WO Ozd Ç äeM*Ç WN Çè åU à W OD qJ vK ÉÏb éd à W d d çÄUM - ¬Çë dOG W U Öu rC ®Uë U à Ïu u Öu lO u Uë {UH Ç d _Ç Áe'Ç w ÉdO Ç ÁUA Å qOJA ÈÇd Ç åÇb Ç bO à UL l u*Ç s b à vK ¬WFH d WI b èà W uIB WO ÇÑ ñ W O d Ç çc ®äeMLK WN Çu*Ç UN Çu d R ¬WO UI d Ç W U MK Ç s WL { q J ÉdO Ç ¬ÊU ÇdHK Uë LzÇÏ Uë ÐU qJñ A w Ç Ñu è w dO _Ç ÑU B Ç s ÊU uL 0è ÁU*Ç æÇe ` B ¬ÇcJ ®l u*Ç w ÉÏu u
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
ä Ç æuOJ Ò_Ç ÑU Ç ÏÇè í u uJ UMO U q à s ÓbI sB ÁUM t Oñ w Ç ¬Ñu M Ç 5 ÑU;Ç èà ¢ O à Óèd dO Óu ¢ b b% - ®rN b r _Ç 5 ÑU;Ç WI êà åuO Ç qJñ A ULN{UI à ¬qJON Çè sB(Ç l uL ¬åU êd à w UO qO Ï s Çë Áe ñ êÏÇu Ç vK w O Çd Ç qJA qD w U Ï s X U WIDM*Ç çc ñæà s r d U ®tK æU Ç s dLF *Ç q s UN H VF _Ç Uë LN Çë d Ï ÇuM ¬dA l U Ç ædI Ç w èà ¢Óu ÑU ¢ WO UL b ñ & fzUM w UL è êÏÇu Ç o UM w WHK WO ÇdEM ÁUO à ®Uë {UH Ç d _Ç v Å W U{ U ¬W U WO UI Ç ÊU uJ*Ç çc WIDM*Ç çc w W bK Ç WOK;Ç ÊU U M Ç Éd è ÈU _Ç v Å X u% ¬WOzÇu Å t A Ç 5O dO à 5 èÒ XF Ï w Ç WO Ozd Ç ÉbK Ç çc w sJ ÁÇd v Å s b UI Uë O Ðu/ Uë OJO J ë eM ÇÑU U ®WO ÑU Ç ¬p Ð v Å W U{ U è ÉdO ÖÑà WFD w U ÉÑèU *Ç ÉÑu N*Ç ÖÑ_Ç WFD U d Ç åñ U u vK l u*Ç W U w UL Å ÏÇÒ UL d ñ Q Çë dE ®WI b ÁUA Å ÇÏÇÑà YO u ÑU tLL êc Ç ¬n uGK uJ UMO U êÏUM
I www.landscape-me.com I November 2011
33
Women in landscape
Concept 1
Munavarjan Sultankhan
What inspired you to become a landscape architect and was your educational background directly related to this? My love of gardens and flowers coupled with the encouragement I received from my parents inspired me to grow a small patio garden at a young age. The growth of my first garden gave me the passion to learn and enter the field of landscape where I could experiment with garden landscapes. During my education, my professor encouraged me towards the professional side of landscape design. With his guidance and the support from my family I studied for my Master of Science in Horticulture, which specialized in landscape gardening and floriculture at Tamil Nadu Agriculture University (TNAU), Coimbatore, India. In your opinion, what are the essential attributes that any landscape architect should possess? The field of landscape architecture is dynamic and it is essential that as a landscape architect I keep my designs unique and interesting. Creativity, knowledge of different plants and their growing habits and years of personal experience play a vital role in helping me to do this. I see each project differently and apply different techniques, planting styles and use different materials to try and keep my designs fresh and interesting.
34
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
The Middle East has seen major developments in the landscaping industry over the past few years with major projects in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Now the attention must be turned to sustaining these ‘Green’ landscapes for years to come. How can this be done baring in mind our environmental responsibility to reduce our carbon footprint and the limited skills of the maintenance workers who are left to preserve the landscapes once the architects have handed over the job? Lack of education and the understanding for our environment is a huge problem all over the world and is not limited to just the garden maintenance workers here in Dubai. We all have to be aware of the damage we are doing to our environment and ‘greener’ methods of garden care is only a very small part of it. Organic environmentally friendly products are too expensive and are unaffordable to many people. Publications and TV programs in various languages should inform people and may help to educate the general public. Children should be taught from a very early age about the issues we are facing and encourage them to practice a ‘greener’ way of living which overtime will eventually reduce our Carbon footprint.
Concept 2 Water will become the most precious resource in the coming years and it’s likely to become a source of conflict. How can you as a landscape professional plan ahead in your work to ensure that water is treated with the respect it deserves and not wasted? Obviously in this part of the world water and its production is a big issue so it is essential to select plants native to this area and by doing this we reduce the amount of water needed to keep them alive as they are drought resistant. Landscape design must focus on trying to reuse water, cutting down on the amount grass used, incorporate more ground cover and the use of mulch will keep the soil damp therefore requiring less water. Effective irrigation systems are essential to distribute only a set amount of water at a certain. Do you believe that the landscape industry in this region will undergo a major change in their design practices and be forced to adapt in the years ahead to overcome this problem of water scarcity and how can you avoid having only arid landscapes? Yes, definitely this is already happening. To avoid a landscape design from looking too arid I try to include a balance of native plants, which soften an area along with natural looking tiles and stones etc. It is also important to design a garden in keeping with this region, which maintains a regional identity. There are many other options to be explored and experimented with; we just have to be more creative with our ideas.
Which project has you been most proud of throughout your career and why? All the projects I have designed in Dubai have challenged me every time. I am very proud of the ‘Therapeutic Garden’ I created for a development in International City. Although the garden was designed for people who are physically challenged I designed it in such a way that it should appear like any ordinary garden, this is a stepping stone to a future dream garden of mine. I am also proud of a garden that I designed at a private villa on Palm Island. It was a privilege to work at such a prestigious location and leave my mark but as a landscape architect I approach every design with enthusiasm and the knowledge that I will give it my best. If you could create your dream project, what would it entail? I would like to create a ‘Community Garden with Hortheraphy’, which would be therapeutic and educational. The garden would be suitable for all ages especially the physically challenged and elderly. I would aim to create an ‘ability garden’ that would be enjoyed by everyone and be environmentally friendly too. As a woman in a male dominated profession, what has been your experience working in this field in the Middle East? I am very fortunate to work in the Middle East and Dubai in particular. I have never felt prejudice and have always experienced support and respect in the workplace.
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
35
Women in landscape
Nakheel beach front garden
Therapeutic garden, International City
36
Everyone experiences the same pressures irrespective of gender or age. I feel professionalism is more important then the gender difference. AMBB Landscapes, the company I am working for presently gives me the co-operation and acceptance I need without any bias.
greenery is a major challenge. For example the roof garden and vertical garden are perfect ways to incorporate green into build up areas. The adaptation of products and techniques are developing everyday and there is more focused towards efficient usage of water and to create an atmosphere of balance.
With the exception of water, what are the main challenges your industry will encounter in the coming years and how can these be overcome in your opinion? In a fast paced country like the UAE, where developments are beyond dreams, the main challenge we face here is change. The landscape design has to adapt to the need and purpose of the environment. In a trend of highrise buildings and restricted space, involving
What advice would you give other women wanting to enter this profession, both here and overseas? Any woman entering this profession should show a passion for the conservation of natural resources and be driven towards sustaining the environment whilst being creative through her designs. It is important to share the knowledge and experiences we gain as others may learn and practice them also.
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
Blends naturally with any environment and landscape composition simple and elegant Modern flower pots with lights
HOTEL KEMPINSKI ADRIATIC, Croatia-Roof garden
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
37
Event Flooring Whether you're putting on a basketball, volleyball, or futsal event, or just need a temporary multi-use floor, we have you covered. Our modular portable sports floors are FIBA approved and ASTM and DIN tested for safe, high-performance sports play. We have several styles to choose from to meet any need. We rent portable event flooring too! Whether you need a temporary floor system for a hospitality tent or an entire stadium, we can accomodate you. We offer the industry’s fastest deploying portable floor covering system. No tools or special skills are needed for installation. Inquire today for further details!
Floor Rental Program Options 1.
Floors can be shipped, ready to install, on pallets. Instructions are provided.
2.
We can send in a supervisor to oversee your crew during the installation.
3.
We can provide turn-key installation and teardown for your event.
Our team has over 20 years of experience installing sports flooring.
38
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
ABU DHABI - +971 2 449 9196
BAHRAIN - +9731 729 3981
DUBAI - +971 4 339 1331
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF FUN AND FITNESS setting, l a r u t a n ment any ment is built le p m o c o t Designed ess equip and stages n it f f o s our range nsure people all age heir future. t e tough to fitness can shape l of physica
SCHOOLS BEACH RESORTS PARKS GARDENS
Certified Member of I.P.E.M.A
Meglio Unionland is a certified member of I.P.E.M.A (International Play Equipment Manufacture Association)
ABU DHABI - +971 2 641 1403
BAHRAIN - +9731 729 3981
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
39
DUBAI - +971 4 339 1331
International Designs
St. Luke’s CE Aided Primary School, Wolverhampton
By Coe Design Landscape Architecture
As the recipient of nine leading awards, including the RIBA Sorrell Foundation award, St. Luke’s Primary School provides the surrounding community in Wolverhampton with a radical new sustainable primary school at the heart of the Blakenhall regeneration area. The first school in 40
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
the UK to receive a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, Coe Design’s landscape for the site was delivered as part of the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme in Wolverhampton and the ABCD New Deal for Communities Regeneration programme.
stripe background.indd
1 stripe background.indd
1
T
he landscape has been designed expressly to encourage children to engage with nature, for the sheer enjoyment of being outside and to assist with learning. The practice’s design for the school responds to all the key stages of the education curriculum, focusing on creative learning through play, exercise and interaction. The project was developed in close consultation with the existing community and constructed in two phases to minimise disruption – utilising the original Infant school until the new building and core landscape spaces were ready for occupation. Productive gardens are located across the grounds, providing staff with a unique tool for education and enabling the school to enlarge its existing programme of gardening activities. These areas include nut and berry hedges, and accessed raised beds, which encourage pupils of all ages to participate in growing fruit, vegetables and herbs which can be shared with friends and families.
Coe Design has incorporated extensive native planting into the landscape to generate new wildlife habitats, improving biodiversity for interactive learning and the benefit of the wider environment. Native trees and hedgerows have been planted around the boundary of the site with margins of species-rich wildflower grasslands, whilst areas of wildflowers are located adjacent to the productive gardens to encourage pollinating fauna. The overall design for the project incorporates a number of interactive spaces of various sizes, including smaller individual gardens located near the school to accommodate single class groups, and larger garden and orchard areas further away with the capacity to hold entire year groups. A range of ‘field’ areas situated near the productive gardens provide outdoor classroom spaces for complementary activities such as outdoor art, mini-beast studies and story-telling.
Since completion, the school has developed a strategy to maximise the use of the new outside spaces as part of the school’s improvement plan. Term topics have been tailored around the gardens and timetables now include lessons like Nursery’s ‘Outside World’ and Reception’s ‘The Garden Shed’ projects. The gardens are also used to aid the study of Tudor herb gardens within History lessons and environmental topics within Geography, whilst vegetable growing lessons with a visiting gardener are available for key stage 2 pupils.
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
41
Materials
The organic shape of the play areas, along with varied surface textures and colours create stimulating places for creative play. Changes in topography around the building are integrated into play areas as wildflower banks or play slopes. Materials were selected for their low embodied energy, use of recycled materials, sustainable sourcing and their functional and aesthetic performance.
FSC certified timber is used for site furniture, curved path edges, timber fences, raised beds, retaining walls and balustrades.
Pale paving slabs surface sheltered classroom terraces and paths around the building. Dark concrete blocks are laid to terrace edges and to the car park where trees are surfaced with resin bound gravel. A gentle bank to the rear of the nursery and reception play area is integrated within the playground, covered in play safety surfacing. Planting
The planting strategy set out to strengthen ecological links with neighbouring sites, provide habitats and year-round food resources for invertebrates, birds and small mammals. Planting combines native plants including a local hedgerow mix with ornamental species selected to provide a diverse, sensory experience that is easy to maintain. The design maximises the retention of existing trees and augments existing native tree cover with new Oak, Ash and Bird Cherry. In addition to the sports pitch and amenity grass, two combinations of native wildflower and meadow grass mixes have been used throughout the site. Areas which retain the existing grass have been improved with wildflower plugs.
-‘Field’ space outdoor classrooms including large curved timber benches -Bird and Bat boxes in adjacent existing trees
Productive Gardens
The productive gardens are comprised of the following elements:
Drainage
-Orchards with Apple, Pear, Cherry and Plum trees
Formal sport activities are accommodated through the provision of two grass pitches and an all-weather Multi-use Games Area (MUGA)
-Raised beds providing: Annual vegetable beds (to be planted by school), perennial soft fruit and herb beds and paved paths between beds. -Nut and berry hedges
-Fencing planted with rambling soft fruits
-Sheds, composting areas and space for potting.
-Adjacent wildflower grass habitat to support pollinators
42
The use of porous materials, on site drainage and below ground cellular storage tanks was maximised to attenuate storm water run-off. Sport
Outline brief
An opportunity to provide an exemplar facility for a two form entry primary school bringing together
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
existing Infant and Junior Schools (originally located off-site) in one location, with 420 pupil places, community facilities and a 30 place Nursery.
To create a flagship project, a radical new sustainable primary school at the heart of the Blakenhall regeneration area of Wolverhampton. To provide access to a wide range of learning opportunities and challenges that lead to positive outcomes for all pupils and empowers children, young people and the wider public to participate in life at the school and in the community. The brief for the productive gardens were developed through consultation with the school. The following requirements were identified: -To accommodate a wide range of activities around the gardens to support all possible areas of the
curriculum.
-To be inclusive to all pupils within the school
-Provide the opportunity to grow, cook and eat produce at school -To be easy to maintain
-Increase biodiversity, attracting and improving adjacent habitats for birds, butterflies and pollinating insects. PROJECT SUMMARY Location: Wolverhampton, UK Client Wolverhampton City Council and the Diocese of Lichfield Type of scheme/site and size Educational, Schools, Food production 17,635 m² Contract value Total: £6.2 million Landscape: £450,000 Completion date: August 2009 Project team Lead Consultant: Architype Landscape Architect: Coe Design Landscape Architecture Architect: Project Manager: Architype Smith Thomas Consult Structural Engineer: Price and Myers M+E Engineer: Ernest Griffiths Civil Engineer: Price and Myers Quantity Surveyor: Smith Thomas Consult CDM Coordinator: Derek Evans (H+S) Ltd. BREEAM Assessor: Price and Myers Ecologist: Jacobs Babtie Arboriculturist: Tree Health Consulting Schools Consultant Effective Learning Environments Planning authority: Wolverhampton City Council Funding – capital and ongoing Building Schools for the Future (BSF) and the ABCD New Deal for Communities Regeneration programme
The perfect place for you to enjoy..
y k a c rd oasi a b r u oY s awaits you!
Contact details design@coe-design.co.uk Website: http://www.coe-design.co.uk Awards • 2010 RIBA Sorrell Foundations Schools Award • BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating • RIBA Regional Award 2010 • Civic Trust Award 2010 - Winner • BCSE awards ‘Sustainable School of the Year’, 2010 • Quality in Construction Awards - Project of the Year under £10m, Environmental Project of the Year and Judges Overall Supreme Award. • The Wood Awards – Highly Commended 2009
AlyAsAt Pools trAding
PO Box: 53177, Community: 612, Street No: 16B • Tel. 04-3207811 • Fax. 04-3207810 • DUBAI , UAE alyasaat@emirates.net.ae • www.alyasatpools.net Authorized dealer
Contractors Thomas Vale Construction Al Yassat Pools_QP3.indd 1
11/27/11 10:55:31 AM
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
43
International Designs
Holstebro, Denmark:
If it is outstanding, celebrate it twice By Okra Landscape Architects
44
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
The city of Holstebro has celebrated the completion of the public realm project around the Storaa stream and new cultural facilities, designed by OKRA and the Danish Schul office. The project is funded by the City of Holstebro and Realdania, a Danish foundation who contributes to public cultural projects. Focal point
T
he project makes a major difference in the city and a connection between the two parts of the centre. The north part and the south part of the centre of Holstebro will be linked by a new focal point. The public spaces around the cultural buildings, like cinema and dance theatre, provide new élan to the city by transforming them into an outdoor stage. The project is the catalyst of changing the riverside from a backside with functional connections into a ‘place to be’. Previously, the riverside was neglected and the city had turned its back towards the water.
Even just after the opening one can notice that the riverside is already that attractive that the quality of public space will be a catalyst for further development. On the north side of the project new developments in the next years will create frontages towards the riverside, where it is now just the backside of commercial activities and parking places. In the further future we can envision that more private owners want to turn their faces towards the river scenery. It can be envisioned that some extension of the buildings combined with underground parking supplies in a future second phase, where parks, playgrounds and small planted squares will form an extension of the beautiful riverside area.
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
45
International Designs
River side walk
The relatively deep position of the river is transformed to a public theatre by making sculptural space. A continuous space is created by ‘foldings’, sometimes the fold is a path, sometimes-small spots and sometimes a place to sit. Thus a space is arisen, where the user component becomes of the set. Logical routes for pedestrians and bicycles are provided in an informal way by making smooth inclines. Sitting places are provided just to watch the water floating and are inviting people to stay. On other days small or larger events can take place. On the south bank a stage area is created with steps to sit on. The bridge takes a central position, tying the folded urban realm of both riverbanks together. The bridge is created in a place where people can pass or citizens can stay and watch the scenery.
46
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
Dynamic theatre square
The former parking space in the south of the theatre is transformed into a public realm that expresses the activities in the buildings. To adjust to the cultural impact of this area the square on the south side of the cultural building is regarded as an outdoor theatre. The space has become a hybrid between park and square, where green and stone go together. The dynamics of the space are reinforced elements, which can change. A large water element ensures a changing focus in the space. The film of water on a paved area is sometimes a fountain or a place for children to play with, sometimes just an object to watch from the adjacent stairs. The long stairs, where people can sit on and watch the scenery, are combined with a vast dike, planted with trees on a lawn. While being a bit little higher than the rest, it borders the area and cars outside the area are not visible.
Process The concept and realization is made by OKRA and Schul Landskabarkitekter in collaboration with Åsa Frankenberg from Berlin, Germany for the lighting design. Area: 2,3 hectare Program: dancing theater, square and walking promenade along the Storaa. Budget: € 5,0 million
Interactive light
Realization Designing competition 2006, 1st price Realization: 2007 – 2009 Prize Holstebro Storaa Stream, competition 1st price.
Special attention is given to the light plan, designed by Åsa Frankenberg. The light along the riverside is more than just direct artificial light. It contributes in positive sense to the picture of the area, when it presents a theatre-like impact during the evening hours. Especially in the early hours of the evening during winters, the artificial light has substantial meaning. The artificial light reinforces the urban use of public realm and creates a scenery based on a program of additional dynamic light, which plays with the visitor. Activities from the theatre building can expand to the riverside and use the bridge as a stage.
I www.landscape-me.com I November 2011
47
New Projects
middleeasttenders.com
+971 2 634 8495
NEW TENDERS Project Number & Name
Country
Client
Description
Closing Date
40000334011219-SA/1 Gardens, Parks & Children Games Construction Project
KSA
Hail Municipality Phone: (+966-6) 533 5000/532 7393
Construction of gardens, parks and children games for a municipality.
January 15, 2012
40000073201009019-SA Greenery Areas Construction & Preparation Project
KSA
Jizan Municipality Phone: (+966-7) 329 0000
Construction and preparation of greenery areas for a municipality.
4000000271406019-SA Public Gardens Completion Works Project
KSA
Eastern Province Municipality - Emara Phone:(+966-3)8330000/8340197
Completion of public gardens for a municipality.
January 9, 2012
January 15, 2012
NEW & CURRENT PROJECTS Consultant/ Contractor
Budget (USD)
UAE
N/A
60 Million
Abu Dhabi Health Services Company PJSC (SEHA)
UAE
Allen & Shariff International (Abu Dhabi)
708 Million
Build-operate-transfer (BOT) contract for the development of Marina Mall.
Mazaya Qatar Real Estate Development Company (Qatar)
Qatar
N/A
275 Million
Mall of Egypt Project
Construction of Mall of Egypt comprising (350) stores, a cinema complex, Magic Planet, an outdoor plaza, dining, and skiing facility.
Majid Al Futtaim Group (Egypt)
Egypt
N/A
770 Million
Doha Festival City Development Project
Development of Doha Festival City comprising a retail centre, an entertainment park, two hotels and an auto park made up of car showrooms.
Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate (Dubai)
Qatar
Mace Limited (UK)/ Arabian Construction Company - ACC (Qatar)
4 Billion
Gharrafa Mall (G-Mall) Project
Construction of Gharrafa Mall (G-Mall).
Ezdan Real Estate Company Q.S.C (Qatar)
Qatar
Al Gazeerah Consulting Engineering / Ezdan Trading & Contracting Company (Qatar)
45 Million
Security Headquarters Construction Project - Phase 4
Construction of security headquarters at 13 different locations - Phase 4.
Ministry of Interior (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
N/A
4 Billion
Phoenix Mart Project
Development of Phoenix Mart comprising a shopping mall, a five-star hotel and car parking facilities.
Meraas Development (Dubai)
UAE
N/A
545 Million
Sohar Refinery Expansion Project
Engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for the expansion of Sohar Refinery.
Oman Refineries & Petrochemicals Company L.L.C (ORPC)
Oman
CB&I Lummus (Dubai)
1.5 Billion
Marriott Hotel & Marriott Executive Apartments Project - Dubai Healthcare City
Construction of five-star Marriott Hotel & Marriott Executive Apartments.
Nilona Holdings (Dubai)
UAE
Arif & Bintoak / Al-Rostamani Pegel LLC (Dubai)
191 Million
ADNOC Headquarters Complex Project
Design and construction of a new headquarters complex for ADNOC (65-storey office tower, podium, basement and underground parking areas.
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)
UAE
Halcrow International Partnership / Six Construct Ltd. (Abu Dhabi)
490 Million
Jumeirah Gardens Mixed-use Development Project
Development of Jumeirah Gardens mixed-use scheme.
Meraas Development (Dubai)
UAE
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (USA)
95 Billion
48
Project Name
Description
Client
Advanced Flight Training Centre Project
Construction of an advanced flight training centre.
Abu Dhabi Aviation
New Al Ain Hospital Project
Construction of new state-of-the-art Al Ain Hospital comprising (688) beds, including underground parking facility for (1,500) vehicles.
Marina Mall Project
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
The Irrigation Innovators
TECNIDRO MESC
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
49
• Landscaping development the hard and soft scape • Irrigation • Horticultural supplies, lawns and specimen plants • email: info@zaidg.com • PO Box 4756 Riyadh 11412, KSA • email: dubai@zaidg.com • PO Box 181581 Dubai, UAE • website: www.zaidg.com
RIYADH: King Khalid Airport Road: Tel. No.: 00966 (1) 4655555
50
KHOBAR: Coast Road Tel. No.: 00966 (3) 8590066
I www.landscape-me.com I January 2012
JEDDAH: Al Andalus Tel. No.: 00966 (2) 6686666
DUBAI Sheikh Zayed Road Tel. No. 00971 (4) 3296630