April 2022 by Landscape Middle East

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MIDDLE EAST

APRIL 2022

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EDITOR’S NOTE ‘Landscaping the Future’ is a bold statement and I’m sure it’s not the first time it’s been used as a tagline for a project somewhere in the world but in the case of this month’s cover story, there couldn’t be a more fitting description. Dubai based landscape architects, Cracknell has utilised cutting edge technology and their technical prowess to push the boundaries of conventional landscape design in their landscaping of the newly opened Museum of the Future in Dubai. On page 8 read how they navigated the more than 60 degree slopes enveloping the museum to create innovative design solutions to suspend a soil ‘carpet’ and how they exceeded industry standards for sustainability requirements with their strategic planting and water reduction efforts. They’ve managed to align their vision of Landscaping with the sheer audacity of the building’s architecture. From one industry trailblazer to another, desert INK’s landscape design of a residential property in Dubai is featured on page 14. The company say it marks a radical departure from regional trends, created to reflect its occupant’s lifestyle; “the landscape incorporates dining, play, entertaining and cozy family spaces, while subtly addressing the need to screen the formal sections of the house and garden to ensure privacy from visiting guests.” We also feature a laid-back resort two hours’ drive east from Beijing, known as the ‘Golden Coast’. Aranya Resort is popular with young families and millennials who flock to the resort to enjoy its infinity swimming pools and interactive water features, which were designed with smart water-saving technology. See page 36. Enjoy the issue!

Managing Partner: Ziad Maarouf Amine Copy Editor: John Hampton Administrative Assistance: Sarry Gan Art Director: Ramon Andaya Contributors: Jimena Martignoni, Justine Dowsing, Mohamed Omar, Romit Chakravarty, Suzie Cramer, Samar Manzar, Ying Lou Printed by: Al Nisr Publishing LLC Webmaster: www.pdinventive.com

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CONTENTS

April 2022 - Issue 178

8 14 18 24 30 36 40

Landscape of Tomorrow holds aloft Museum of the Future Living in Nature

UAE’s EXPO Legacy New Avenues for Landscaping More than a touch of Green A coastal escape outside of Beijing Just another day at the office

30 24 2

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I NEWS AND EVENTS

Diamond Developers announce the launch of ‘The Sustainable City – Yiti’ with an investment value of nearly one billion US dollars Earning a commendable reputation for being the leading developers of sustainable communities in the UAE, Diamond Developers in partnership with the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), announced the launch of ‘The Sustainable City – Yiti’ in Muscat, today. With an investment value of nearly one billion US dollars, the city is the first project in Oman that meets the highest global green practices and adheres to the highest sustainability standards. Spread over an area of 1 million square meters, ‘The Sustainable City – Yiti’ – will be developed within the phase 1 of the Yiti Integrated Tourism Development Masterplan - is the first project in Oman that meets the global green practices and is in adherence to the highest sustainability standards. This iconic destination is situated in the capital city of Muscat, overlooking the Sea of Oman and features a unique topography of majestic mountains that mingle with undisturbed valleys and pristine shores, which creates further competitive advantages to the destination. Engineer Faris Saeed, Chairman of Diamond Developers said, “The Sustainable City – Yiti is not only a benchmark

for sustainable urban development, it is a working model for future cities. It is a thriving community made up of thousands of residents, visitors, students, researchers, and entrepreneurs” he added. “The project is expected to be one of the region’s most sustainable cities, and by adopting the latest solutions in energy production, vertical farming, humidity harvesting, and autonomous transportation, we aim to be net zero carbon by 2040, in line with Oman’s vision and national strategy. At Diamond Developers, we remain committed to empowering and supporting partners around the world to realise the cities of tomorrow, today to deliver a more sustainable future for all of us.” Further commenting on the launch, Eng. Mohammed Salim Al Busaidi, Chairman of OMRAN Group, said, “Our partnership with Diamond Developers to launch ‘The Sustainable City – Yiti’ is a unique milestone in our journey as we continue to invest, develop, and maximise the limitless potential of Oman’s tourism sector. As it’s being developed withinone of the largest urban developments in the Middle East, Yiti will open avenues for numerous lucrative investment opportunities for both local and

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international investors in line with the directions of Oman Investment Authority. Mirroring the Sultanate’s goal of driving transformational change to attain a green, circular economy and emissions reduction, the city embraces the highest standards of sustainability and attests to our vision of creating an eco-conscious community that is harmoniously aligned with the distinct geography of the region.” With sustainable innovation at the heart of the development, the project will feature 1657 residential units including 300 eco-friendly and energy-efficient villas. Designed for comfort, practicality, and style, the spacious 3 and 4 bedroom villas will also offer significant savings on utility bills. In line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals to reduce dependency on non-renewable sources of energy, the city is designed to produce 100 percent of its energy requirements from renewables which include solar panels and biogas. It will also recycle all its water and waste and use it for irrigation. Acknowledging the importance of creating a community that is self-sustaining, the city aims to grow its own food through productive farm areas and greenhouses. Encouraging community members to be a part of the process, private farming slots will also be allocated for residents to grow their own produce. With a holistic approach to sustainability, the city will play a significant role in reducing carbon emissions by adopting clean mobility solutions like autonomies shuttles and electric cars, and by deploying EV charging stations around the project. The residential areas, designed to be carfree, will not only provide a safe environment for families but also encourage residents to build strong social connections within the community.

Dedicated to nurturing a new generation that understands the value of sustainability, the city will include a sustainable school that will teach important concepts of sustainability through the school curriculum. It will feature a ‘SEE lab’ which will showcase the latest in sustainability solutions like renewable energy technologies, indoor vertical farming, and humidity harvesting. With an innovative carbon natural building, the ‘SEE Institute’ will, additionally, focus on promoting awareness on environmental issues and sustainable living. Striking the right balance between sustainability goals and promoting wellness, the city will feature a number of sports facilities which include jogging and cycling tracks, an equestrian club, and a horse track. It will also include a plaza that hosts a selection of commercial outlets, like shops, restaurants, and cafes. In an endeavor to support eco-tourism, the project will feature a four-star neighborhood hotel with 197 rooms, a five-star resort with 170 rooms and a range of restaurants, numerous leisure facilities, and beachfront access. The resort will also manage 132 luxury serviced apartments to further accommodate the diverse needs of visitors. The Sustainable City- Yiti positions itself as a working model for future cities that meets the highest sustainability standards. Upon completion in 2025, the city will go beyond enhancing the quality of life of its residents, taking an integrated and inclusive approach to urban life and amalgamating green, energy efficient designs with a people-centric philosophy. By addressing local social, environmental, and economic concerns, The Sustainable City acts as a catalyst for change that is intelligent, scalable, resilient, and replicable.

I NEWS AND EVENTS Award-winning US-based architects Cade Hayes and Jesús Robles shared their expertise in thoughtful design for desert contexts with students and alumni of the College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) at American University of Sharjah (AUS) on Tuesday, March 22.

In partnership with Abu Dhabi Festival, AUS hosts awardwinning architects to inspire next generation of UAE designers Presenting on campus at AUS as part of the Riwaq Al Fikr talk series in partnership with Abu Dhabi Festival, the duo spoke about their multidisciplinary design studio DUST, which they founded in 2007 in Tucson, Arizona as an alliance of architects, craftspeople, artists, designers and builders. Winner of awards such as Architectural Review’s AR House Award and the Jeff Harnar Award for Contemporary Architecture in the Southwest, DUST Studio is known for its elegant and environmentally sensitive designs, as well as their use of sustainable, handcrafted materials such as rammed earth. Their work has garnered attention from professional journals and popular media across the globe. With architects and their clients being increasingly sensitive to the local environment and cultural context, Hayes and Robles’ shared expertise is of particular relevance. Dr. Varkki Pallathucheril, Dean of CAAD, said DUST’s body of work in a desert setting provides valuable exemplars for architects practicing in the UAE and the GCC, especially CAAD students and alumni. “Having Cade Hayes and Jesús Robles in Sharjah to share their commitment to local craft and to embedding traditional building practices aligns very well with CAAD’s widely respected culture of making,” said Dr. Pallathucheril. In his role as Chairperson of the Lectures Committee for the Department of Architecture at AUS, Associate

Professor Jason Carlow said the designers’ slow, reverent and patient approach is one that UAE-based designers could learn from. “The concept of slowing down one’s creative process and paying attention to detail is especially important in a region where the scale of building is enormous and development moves at a breakneck pace. This was an important opportunity for students to be exposed to an alternative way of approaching design practice,” said Carlow. Over the years, AUS has been a regular contributor to the Riwaq Al Fikr talk series program. “Since its launch in 2010, Abu Dhabi Festival’s annual discussion series Riwaq Al Fikr has fostered insightful dialogue between leading intellectuals, experts, practitioners and the community,” said ADMAF Founder, Her Excellency Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo. “We are pleased to partner with American University of Sharjah to provide students with an in-depth understanding from the most inspiring leaders in their field, highlighting ADMAF’s commitment to serving as a gateway to knowledge by investing in the youth of the nation and empowering them to realize their dreams and ambitions,” said Her Excellency. For more information about the College of Architecture, Art and Design at American University of Sharjah, visit www.aus.edu/caad. To view the full program of Riwaq al Fikr Events, please visit www.abudhabifestival.ae.

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I MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE

Landscape of Tomorrow holds aloft Museum of the Future Hailed by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful museums in the World, a fitting and innovative mounded setting and arrival experience for this truly iconic building tells the human story of the future and sets a new resilience benchmark. By: Cracknell cracknell.com No one can have failed to notice the newly opened torusshaped Museum of the Future in Dubai, yet beneath Killa Design’s spectacular building is an equally spectacular landscape designed by Cracknell - but what makes it so special isn’t necessarily obvious to the onlooker. Beneath the landscape that creates the setting for this stunning landmark building are complex systems that pushed technological boundaries throughout the design process to explore and evolve innovative sustainable strategies. The visionary design closely integrates the landscape with the architecture. Forming the ‘skin’ of the museum buildings, the landscape cleverly conceals the lobby, auditorium, cafés, restaurants, retail, parking and building services. The illusion created by this strategy is that of a sculptural building resting lightly on the landscape. Intelligent technologies are employed to suspend a smart irrigated root zone that also collects and recycles excess water providing a lushly planted ‘hill’ - a distinct and arresting counterpoint to the intensely urban context which allows visitors to climb up and through the landscape to experience a unique view of the surrounding city. Working with slopes steeper than 60 degrees required innovative design solutions to suspend the soil ‘carpet’, as at these angles its own weight no longer holds it in place and standard landscape techniques for soil and

planting medium retention could not be used. Green wall technology together with a recycled material geocell system retain and stabilise the steep slopes in conjunction with specialised in-line drip irrigation systems using grey/ treated sewage water. All of these elements are contained within an engineered ‘sandwich’ that clothes the mound in its xerotropic living green carpet. Complex modelling of the mound allowed Cracknell to minimise structural loads on the building by keeping the soil layers relatively thin while filling larger pockets of the concealed structure with a lightweight expanded polystyrene (EPS) geofoam. Cocopeat (bio-product) and lightweight perlite improve the water holding capacity of the planting medium and create a light soil that helps to limit the structural loads. As cities have become denser we need to be more responsible with water. Given the challenges of high regional temperatures and the extreme topography, we’re proud to have evolved planting strategies to not only comply with the sustainability requirements of LEEDv3 Platinum but to exceed them. The Design Vision was closely maintained throughout CGI of scheme vision and matching project view at completion (opposite).

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9 Top CGI: Cracknell; Bottom Photograph: Museum of the Future.

I MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE A key to ensuring landscape sustainability was not only to select plants with a low water requirement, but also to design smart irrigation systems that would automatically manage the water application based on moisture content data received from soil moisture sensors and weather information from a local weather station. The steeply sloping nature of the mound presented concerns about rapid loss of irrigation water from run-off from the root zone. To counteract this, water is delivered in short but frequent ‘bursts’ to minimise wastage and evaporation, and subsurface geocells allow excess irrigation and stormwater to be harvested and recycled. This ensures it isn’t released into the urban drainage system. The prevailing climate of the region is sub-tropical and arid with a rainfall of only 13 cm/year and with temperatures that range from 10 to 48 degrees Celsius. The irrigation system is therefore an integral component of the design; we succeeded in reducing water usage by 2530%, substantially improving on the original KPIs and adding further value to the project’s overall sustainability metrics.

Original concept and visioning sketches showing examples of the evolution of the design idea.

10 Sketches: Cracknell

One of the primary plants used for the mound is a variety of fleshy sea-purslane (Sesuvium). These succulents are a variety of the native Sesuvium verrucosum commonly found growing naturally by the saline coast or sabkha in Middle Eastern countries. Sea-purslanes are quick growing, extremely tolerant of heat/salt and require minimal irrigation, making them the ideal plant to ‘green’ the ‘mound’ in a sustainable way. Native trees make striking architectural statements against the carpet of succulents; Ghaf (Prosopis cineraria), Zizyphus spina-christi (Sidr) and Acacias are perfectly adapted to local environmental conditions and require minimal water and fertilizer to sustain them. Their masses of nectar rich flowers support native bees, and seasonal fruits attract wild bird populations. Further ecological value is brought by the native grasses and ground covers such as Cenchrus ciliaris, Zygophyllum and Sporobolus spicatus which are supremely adapted to poor saline soils and are self propagating; their seeds sustain local bird populations such as the charismatic Hoopoes, as well as Sparrows, Sun-birds and Whiteeared Bulbuls.

Irrigation Water Recycling: Green wall technology and recycled material geocell systems retain and stabilise the slopes alongside specialised in-line drip irrigation systems using grey/treated sewage water. Photograph: Museum of the Future

Photograph: Cracknell

The landscape merges seamlessly with the architecture, concealing the complex technologies that suspend the soil carpet. Smart irrigation supports many native plants.

Photograph: Cracknell

Technical Drawings by Cracknell

Sea-purslanes (Sesuvium) related to those found by the Middle East’s saline coast, ‘green’ the ‘mound’ with others including native Cenchrus ciliaris, Zygophyllum and Sporobolus spicatus.

Photograph: Cracknell

I MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE The illusion is of a sculpture resting lightly on the landscape. Steps and walkways encourage exploration, giving visitors a unique city view from a native landscape of grasses and acacias.

12 Photograph: Museum of the Future

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Photograph: Museum of the Future

Plan: Cracknell

At the entrance plaza, a tranquil mirror pool reflects the building’s Arabic inscriptions.

At the pool centre, a timeline spirals into the building, symbolising evolution of ideas from the past and entering the Museum where the future awaits.

Another major influence in our landscape design was the site context. The relationship to the adjacent buildings, existing roads and metro was a key factor in the design and visual impact of the landscape. Cracknell took care to fit this significant landscape and architectural intervention into an existing and complex urban site and to create plazas that interface elegantly with the existing busy public realm and civic spaces. The connecting bridges from the metro lead the visitor on a delightfully deceptive journey, punching through the landscape to bring visitors into the museum-you never quite know whether you are inside a mound or a building! At the entrance plaza visitors are greeted by a disc of water that perfectly reflects the building and creates a tranquil setting. A spiralling timeline starts from the centre of the water feature and transitions into the building, symbolising the evolution of ideas from the past and entering the Museum where the future awaits. The dramatic ‘eyebrow’ entrances merge with the planted landscape seamlessly creating a perfect harmony of form with the architecture.

visitors a unique view of the city while embracing them in a native landscape of grasses and acacias, creating a memorable and unusual journey beneath one of the most iconic buildings in the world.

The mounded landscape was seen as an opportunity to create a unique experience for visitors. A series of steps and walkways encourage exploration of the mound, giving

Cracknell’s landscape design was integral to the overall building concept for an expressive and forward-thinking Dubai architectural statement and World sustainability benchmark. As one of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s quotes on the Museum’s façade reads: ’The future belongs to those who can imagine it, design it, and execute it.’ We couldn’t agree more. Client: Museum of the Future Project Consultants Team: Lead Architect Content Designer Landscape Architect Civil/Infrastructure Engineers Lighting Design

Killa Design Killa Design Cracknell Buro Happold Cracknell/Buro Happold

Contractors: BAM International

I LIVING ENVIRONMENT

LIVING

IN NATURE

This Dubai property embraces the modern tastes of a younger, well-travelled generation of Emirati’s, while simultaneously reflecting a culture deeply rooted in the stunning natural desert and mountain environment.

desert INK’s design for this residential landscape property in Dubai marks a radical departure from regional trends. Composed to reflect this Emirati family of five’s lifestyle, the landscape incorporates dining, play, entertaining and cozy family spaces, while subtly addressing the need to screen the formal sections of the house and garden to ensure privacy from visiting guests. desert INK worked hand in hand with Dutch architects UXUS to compose this dwelling in which landscape and architecture conceal and reveal each other in turn, vistas and glimpses are carefully orchestrated and both are held together with a consistent rhythm of common materiality. From a small, but dense verdant core of layered planting protecting the inner sanctum of family life in the elbow of the L-shaped villa, planting transitions towards a flowing, naturalistic xeriscape at the boundaries. This subtle graduation from tropical paradise to rolling dunes of indigenous species successfully balances the client’s requirements with desert INK’s sustainable goals. In limiting the extent of the thirsty tropical garden towards the villa, interior views, adjacent exterior terraces and general daily life is framed by a wonderful array of leafy, flowering plants and a stunning swimming pool. The use of local materials, notably plants, stones, and paving for the remaining majority of the garden, was a critical sustainability goal for desert INK which serves to reinforce the thematic transition from tropical core to wider regionally inspired landscape. Fusing a small portion of a verdant tropical style typically only found on distant shores, with a contemporary

I LIVING ENVIRONMENT

xeriscape vernacular, the design delivers upon the client’s wishes to reflect their fondness for travel while simultaneously reflecting their deep affinity with the deserts and mountains of the UAE. Measuring 10,630sqm this private garden is composed of several distinct zones, each with a defined purpose and aesthetic. Upon entering the property through a wonderful sliding weathered steel gate, visitors are met with a stunning view of the signature architectural lantern tower, framed by native Acacia trees. This tall, louvered tower hosting the main entrance at ground and study above, is flanked by desert INK›s xeriscape and a vehicle drop off. Combining a sunken dry wadi feature lined with local stones and billowing native and adaptive plants, the predominant beige tones of the hardscape and architecture are perfectly countered

by the silvery, yellow, purple and deep greens of the xeriscape. Showcasing a zen-like flow of local stone slips between boulders, the dry wadi presents not only a visual feast, but a wonderful water-saving device. Moving through the villa, visitors take in the wonderfully contrasting tropical scene through double-height glazing. A dark, rectangular pool aligns with the vista, providing a home for the family›s collection of Koi Carp, which gently disturb the surface sending reflected ripples onto the interior›s ceiling. Layers of exotic plants subtly hide views of the swimming pool from the formal wing of the interior, ensuring that swimmers are

not revealed to guests. Meanwhile, shaded dining terraces seamlessly transition from the family wing, with full views of the shimmering swimming pool which graduates from a safe, shallow beach edge for the children, towards the deeper parts of the pool beyond. desert INK’s pool design reflects the philosophy that pools can deliver far more than just a place to swim. Featuring beautiful flush edges, inpool seat, shallow areas and a long lap for exercise, the pool is a water feature, playscape, setting, place of exercise and contemplation all at once. An elevated outdoor teahouse marks the termination of the pool, complete with cascading reflection pools and a generous array of overlapping stepping platforms. For a moment, the tropical planting parts, revealing the infinity pool edge, providing a stunning view towards a wadi pond and invitation to explore the wider garden beyond. Emerging through one of the numerous pathways which penetrate the tropical garden, guests join the main pathway which encircles the rear garden. This route moves past an oval function/ play lawn and children›s garden before ascending to one of the many dunes from which stunning views of the garden are presented. Descending

again, the pathway loops around the rear side of the pond and into the native gardens. The native gardens are composed of several flowing, irregular pathways between dunes and small valleys draped with local stones and plants. Enveloped in the native planting between dunes, visitors are treated to a rare botanical display of native grasses, perennials and trees which serve to hide, then reveal views and create a sense of discovery. A truly unique composition, this property perfectly reflects the lives, passions, duties, and daily requirements of the family within. Showcasing a new xeriscape vernacular for the region, it marks the first of a new breed of designed landscapes which embraces the modern tastes of a younger, welltravelled generation of Emirati’s, while simultaneously reflecting a culture deeply rooted in the stunning natural desert and mountain environment. Landscape Construction by: Urban landscapes

Known for their context-driven, sustainable landscape designs, desert INK are a landscape design consultancy based in the Dubai Design District. With 20 years of experience in the region, Managing Director, Duncan Denley leads a creative team backed up by the 30years’ experience held in the Desert Group and vision of CEO Michael Mascarenhas.

I UAE PAVILION EXPO 2020

UAE’S EXPO LEGACY The UAE pavilion along with a handful of others will remain open to the public as the site transitions from Expo 2020 into District 2020.

Already recognised as a national monument, the UAE Pavilion and landscape are symbolic of the nation’s pioneering spirit and together seamlessly embodied the main theme of EXPO 2020; Connecting minds, Creating the future. It’s hardly surprising then that the pavilion will continue to host visitors even though expo 2020 has ended. Such is its legacy that the iconic building and surrounding landscape will become a permanent fixture for residents and visitors to marvel. The pavilion architecture conceptualised by Spanish firm Santiago Calatrava was inspired by the grace and force of a falcon in flight, and landscape architectural practice WAHO, led by New Zealand designer Sam Spinks, has ensured the landscape exemplified this symbolic interpretation. Notwithstanding its importance as the national icon, the falcon is a symbol of pride and honour and represents values of courage, determination, mobility and patience, all

of which enabled the nation’s Bedouin ancestors to flourish. In fact, the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan used falconry expeditions to forge connections between tribes which ultimately led to the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. Situated at the heart of the former EXPO’s nearly 500acre exhibition area, the Pavilion fosters connectivity from 360 degrees serving as a pivotal anchor-point whilst the generously landscaped setback allows visual connections and approach from all angles. In this way, the host country’s pavilion is representative of the UAE’s receptivity, tolerance, and welcoming spirit. With these uninhibited views, the landscape that encompasses the building adopts a strong radial layout that directly responds to the building features, whilst highlighting the notion of flow and movement, and representing a wider desertscape.

The wider desertscape, with an abundance of endemic plants as well as trees anchored in undulating dunes, is evocative of the country’s natural landscape whilst providing unobstructive views of the pavilion.

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Landscape design that portrays the culture and unique characteristics of the UAE With its extensive expertise in culturally-led placemaking, WAHO has gathered threads of the UAE’s rich cultural tapestry and woven them into a landscape narrative across the 15,000m2 site. Embracing the cultural and inherently unique characteristics of the UAE and creating a connection between the past and present, whilst engaging and informing visitors of the unique cultural elements of the UAE’s heritage.

A remarkable and culturally-significant feature of the landscape is the falaj; a carved granite structure, referencing the UAE’s ancient yet innovative irrigation system which was used to sustain village life and irrigate crops. Enhanced by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan, the falaj concept has been further adapted and modernised in recent times and it is still in use today across parts of the country as a source of irrigation for farms and date palm plantations.

The layers of the falaj represent the inverted topography of the UAE’s three highest mountains.

WAHO purposely ensures the falaj water has a stillness quality as it reticulates. This stillness ensures a clear view of the carved topography of the stone encasement as well as capturing the reflection of surrounding trees and the pavilion.

I UAE PAVILION EXPO 2020

I SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE

The organic-shaped shade-structure (designed by others), which draws inspiration from the falcon’s physicality, is harmoniously balanced with these striking radial bands and planters and together, create an impressive stage on which to showcase the pavilion. The spaces between the radial bands that extend from the Pavilion and guide visitors to the entrance, conjure up an informal oasis-like setting to showcase the abundance of the UAE’s flora and fauna comprising over 5,500 plants native to the UAE. The majority are culturally significant having played important roles in Bedouin life.

The landscape narrative also showcases selected cultural assets and their significance to the UAE through the creation of intimate spaces where artisans can demonstrate various crafts from a bygone era, such as henna design and weaving to traditional dance (AlAyyala). Fine mineral gravel from the Al Hajar Mountain ranges and the use of locally sourced stone which encase the blade-shaped paving (informed by the falcon wings and feathers), grounds the design into its surroundings. These carefully considered cultural elements create the basis for a strong sense of place.

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Innovative and Sustainable Response to the UAE’s Climate. In response to the UAE climate, a key design goal was to reduce the environmental impact associated with the high demand of energy and water consumption. To sustain an efficient irrigation network only native and adaptive species were selected and their irrigation requirements are fully sourced from treated water.

reflected heat and providing a refuge from direct exposure to climatic conditions. The strategic location of both canopy trees and shade canopies also provide a consistent spread of shade to the open area in response to harsh sunlight common to the UAE.

In order to create an efficient landscape intervention that includes computer-controlled irrigation assessments, modular water storage cells with a 95% void ratio are installed to allow for the collection and disbursement of rainwater. The system helps with localised flood alleviation and is a highly efficient surface water retention, attenuation and management system whilst accommodating a wide range of traffic loadings from pedestrian areas to vehicular traffic areas. Furthermore, passive cooling, ventilation and shading strategies are central to ensuring that energy consumed is both reduced and managed. Sunken, shaded gardens that are oriented to channel wind and air flow create comfortable outdoor environments that are further cooled by large water pools and trees naturally cooling the air, creating shade, reducing

I UAE PAVILION EXPO 2020

Detailed wind, solar and shadow studies helped inform the layout and how the landscape responds contextually. Shaded arcades, protected by the sheltering form of the Pavilion wings, allow for outdoor environments that are host to 11 different vegetative species, 8 of which are native or adaptive and which were selected to be highly functional and responsive to the hot climate of the region.

The creation of micro-climates that provide optimal comfort against the harsh conditions were achieved through leveraging the layered shading structures with the carefully selected placement of softscape. These elements, together with the cool air emanating from the falaj’s water, aid in delivering a unique microclimate for the comfort of visitors.

Juxtaposed against the tranquil sound and light emanating from the falaj, the landscape heightens the sensory experience, providing balance and harmony and directs visitor flow by adjusting the reticulation speed of water. The result is a fluid and contemporary design, grounded in thought-leading placemaking.

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Striking radial bands and planters together, create an impressive stage on which to showcase the pavilion.

Celebrating the UAE’s cultural heritage, the pioneering spirit of its ancestors and the connections they forged which has helped transform the UAE today, WAHO’s carefully considered, sensitive and striking placemaking harmonises and elevates the falcon-inspired architectural form, encapsulating the very essence of the host nation, the United Arab Emirates. Waho Landscape Architects is an awarded specialist landscape design practice headquartered in Dubai. Established by Sam Spinks in 2009, WAHO has successfully designed and delivered many regionally significant landscape proposals located in culturally and environmentally sensitive environments across the Middle East. As a specialist landscape architectural studio WAHO has a strong focus on leading edge, design-driven and sustainable landscape proposals.

I SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE

New Avenues for Landscaping Adnan Nalwala, executive director at Akar Technical Services tells us why he thinks the landscaping industry, propped up by the construction industry, will continue to flourish in 2022 and beyond. The Covid-19 pandemic — perhaps the most unusual event of our lifetime — has really been multiple pandemics in one. While not everyone has been infected, it is safe to say that every human being on the planet has been affected. The lockdowns and containment measures pushed people indoors, leading to a new boom in home improvement services and creation of personalized spaces for outdoor living.

What’s more, with so many people working remotely during the pandemic, homeowners who never had time before began to reevaluate their outdoor spaces. They were home all day, every day, and wanted prettier personal ecosystems to enjoy, especially in warm climates like the UAE, where residents can eat, work, and socialize in their personal outdoor space for most of the year. Wellcared-for yards began to offer respite for workouts, social

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gatherings, etc. A well-appointed outdoor space turned into the perfect place for the kids to blow off steam or do a home science lesson. If people were hesitant to walk or exercise pets in public in 2020, they could still do those activities in their yards. In many ways, the pandemic taught people to appreciate their own private property more and enjoy the peace and quiet of working out at home. Now that the economy is opening again, homeowners don’t want to let that go and are eager to maintain the tranquil zones they created during the pandemic. In the last two years, the crisis being the most visible feature and its influence on the construction activity in the region has refined the way contractors build and delivers projects. In the UAE, especially, customers are now willing to splurge on a well-planned garden, prompting developers to prioritize quality and allocate much higher budgets for designing garden spaces. This has paved the way for new consumer trends, subsequently creating new opportunities in the landscaping sector for contractors. And this industry is likely to continue to flourish in the coming years. Positive forecast According to Mordor Intelligence 2021 report, the UAE construction market was valued at $101.45 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach a value of $133.53 billion by 2026, registering a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.69 per cent from 2021 to 2026. Moreover, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) upgraded UAE’s 2021 economic growth prediction to 3.1 percent, citing the emirate’s response to the Covid-19 outbreak. Based on these projections and the government’s extensive plans such as the Energy Strategy 2050, the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme and the Dubai Tourism Strategy, things are looking up for the UAE’s construction orders and execution in the coming months. As we get into the new normal, one this is clear that the world will look different hereon. Without a question, the coronavirus has pushed landscaping, like many other

industries, into uncharted territory. Nonetheless, there are reasons to be optimistic because activities in the landscape, construction and infrastructure sector stimulated by the pandemic are likely to welcome new projects as consumer lifestyles have evolved-which are unlikely to be reversed in the short-term. Also, the consumers’ sustained buying of a variety of landscaping products, decorative features, and lighting elements to highlight the natural beauty of their living spaces and maintain the virtual options for their fitness and wellness routines, the sector is gaining increasing awareness from the region’s private sector companies and more companies are now keen to partake in landscaping operations considering the value they offer to clients. Challenges Ahead While the new gap in the market has lots to offer, there are supply-chain snags, labor shortage issues that companies need to sort before they jump the bandwagon. The challenges don’t lie in those problems themselves. The main challenges for the landscaping industry is the ability to approach these challenges with a truly creative mindset and thrive in the face of these issues. If businesses can’t come up with holistic solutions for staffing and supply, they’re likely to miss out on the growth opportunities it can provide. From a market perspective going forward, one of the key indications of the overall health of the industry growth is derived from the continued strength of the housing market. More and more people are purchasing and owning homes with yards, thereby creating opportunities for landscapers. What’s important is a restructured project approachwhere property developers and contractors communicate, collaborate, and prioritize supply chains- that can ensure faster delivery times, shorter project durations and great service. In all likelihood, these factors can expand the business several times over while strengthening its position in the economy at large.

I PARK

THE

PEOPLE’S PARK

A sprawling urban park with multiple sub parks contained within it and anchored by a linear lake will become the new beating heart of this Dubai community Design Proposal by Mohamed Omar

It is a project of urban and environmental regeneration that will positively affect the quality of life of the district residents generating social, economic and environmental systemic effects. People, culture, history and nature are connected in a virtuous circle of appreciation.

The park will be well connected to the urban network, being easily accessible to pedestrians and cyclists, subway, buses and cars in general. As well as positively contributing to the overall social fabric of the city; recovering a degraded

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area increases the sense of belonging amongst the population and demonstrates the care of the city for its patrimony and its inhabitants. The program brings the necessary elements for the valuation of its surroundings, through the growth of

tourism, real estate valuation and recovery of the natural environment. It is an integration project that brings elements of the natural and built environments, allowing people to meet and enjoy this new space, equipped with shops, cafes, sports areas, toilets, among others.

I PARK The park is divided into 4 main zones as following: Semi passive informal park This is an intermediate park between calm and active which includes cafes, organic market and dedicated calm seating zones. There are also areas to practice yoga and other serene activities.

Active sports park This is considered a friendly active park that includes different activities such as kayaking, multi-purpose sports field, jogging track and amphitheater. High active multi-usage park This is considered a family active park that includes different social and gathering activities such as pavilion park, events plaza, kids sculpture park, kid’s playground and outdoor restaurant.

Calm park This is considered a meditation park with serene activities taking place overlooking the lake. An important element of the design is the lighting. During the day, the light of the sun and its reflections is the main element spectacle; after dark, it is the turn of the landscape with its lighting design to create on the boardwalk the semblance of a starry sky.

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I SHOPPING MALL

MORE THAN A

TOUCH OF GREEN By: Uncommon Land

The blue fan palm, Bismarckia nobilis, is not commonly found on the Arabian Peninsula. Sub-tropical in origin, angular in structure, glaucous blue in colour, it is one of the many unique tree species selected to enhance a major new development in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, known as project Solitaire. Due for completion in 2022, and currently concealed behind a green perimeter wall, Solitaire is set to become an iconic retail destination for the Saudi capital. The scheme, for which Uncommon Land’s sister business Benoy is leading the architecture and interior design, is located in the north of the city and will break from the traditional Riyadhi shopping mall typology to provide a dynamic, open-air environment complete with retail streets, plazas, boutiques and an elevated roof garden. In a region known to be one of the most arid places on Earth, landscaping, greenspace and biophilia will be critical to the project’s success. These components will also be vital to Solitaire’s alignment with the government’s strategic framework, Saudi Vison 2030. Billed as “a bold yet achievable blueprint for an ambitious nation”, Vision 2030 is intended to guide

Saudi Arabia’s “aspirations towards a new phase of development”. Central to this vision is a commitment to healthy living and environmental sustainability. Looking to promote balanced lifestyles and new, ecologically friendly ways of driving economic growth, Vision 2030 aims to preserve the country’s natural resources and ensure quality of life for future generations. For Al-Marqab Investment Company, the client behind project Solitaire, the guiding principles of the 2030 agenda are enshrined in the designs for Riyadh’s new urban retail district. As a representative for Al-Marqab explains: “Part of Vision 2030 is turning Riyadh into a green area. In the streets, there is lots of planting of new trees. The government is trying to encourage healthy lifestyles for local people, and the planting of trees and greenery is designed to make the environment more liveable. So landscaping is one of the most important elements of Solitaire; it will be key to how the project positions itself and promotes the new concept of environmentally controlled outdoor areas. That is why it is so important to plan and plant it right!”

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I SHOPPING MALL

Striking a balance The choice of the blue fan palm is a prime example of efforts undertaken by Uncommon Land, the project’s landscape consultants, to do exactly that – to ‘plan and plant it right’. In fact, it is typical of Uncommon Land’s overall strategic approach, which is all about reacting to the nuances of site, climate, geography and architecture. Benoy’s building design for Solitaire, for example, is based on the crystalline form of the geode; a unique geometry which will inform multiple facades and internal finishes across three levels of interconnected space. The striking frond formations of the Bismarckia nobilis speak directly to the shifting planes of the architecture, while the tree itself meets essential performance criteria. Looking to create a green and welcoming environment, Uncommon Land’s design team saw that local palm species and native xerophytic plants, such as the barrel cactus, were too static and harsh in appearance. Seeking softer forms which can move in the breeze and react to different light conditions, the team turned to alternative natives from the acacia

family and acclimatised species from nearby regions. For the internal gardens, they chose plants with a more Mediterranean profile, such as citrus and olive. The palette of plants also had to be tempered to incorporate species that will flourish in conditions which are also conducive to human comfort. In this way, the planting strategy had to strike a balance between the expectations of high-end retail tenants, and the client’s verdant vision for the scheme. On the one hand, retail tenants want good shopfront visibility, clear sight lines, and ambient temperatures in which people are happy to wander,

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browse and shop. On the other hand, lush greenery thrives in subtropical humidity in which people quickly become hot and bothered. To balance the interests of the client, tenant and end-user, Uncommon Land made astute plant selections that will maximise the green experience without compromising comfort or footfall, helping to ensure both the aesthetic and economic viability of the project. Wind towers and water features A unique feature of the development will be its commitment to sustainable cooling via a series of wind towers. Within the towers, mechanical fan systems will help to maintain amenable temperatures throughout the site’s internal zones. The job of these fans will be to move rather than chill the air, producing a sustainable alternative to standard, energy intensive air conditioning. The aim is to create a comfortable environment via passive cooling technology. And as visitors move from internal zones to external areas open to the climate, forced air systems will ensure they remain protected from the desert heat. In addition, enticing water features will create a calming look and feel, while also contributing to cooling with their fine mist. The mist will initially feed the ambient humidity, then provide a natural cooling effect as mist-layered objects dry. Overall, the waterfall and stream features will form a key element of the high-quality public realm and respite areas which are the heart and soul of Solitaire. Crucially, Uncommon Land’s focus on recycled water will ensure the project does not have any detrimental impact on an already water-stressed region. Across all water features and plant irrigation schemes, grey water usage will balance out

water requirements in the site’s F&B units, drawing on Riyadh’s civic water recycling system. And once again, the selection of specific drought-tolerant plant species, such as acacia and frangipani, will help to reduce the overall irrigation load. Sustainability and sense of place During the design of Solitaire, sustainability and sense of place – both vital ambitions for the project – have become inextricably linked. Aiming to create a rich garden aesthetic, the greening of the project site not only helps to manage challenging climatic conditions, but creates a totally unique destination. Across the north and south plazas and second floor, an immersive, verdant experience is designed to inspire and delight – shaping a drama of green space and a radical new landscape for the people of Riyadh. Specific sustainability measures have also helped to reinforce the cultural identity of the project. In the contemporary garden zone, the Uncommon Land team removed all corten steel from the retaining wall designs. Knowing that corten steel is unsustainable due to high levels of embodied carbon and heavy-duty construction requirements, Uncommon Land opted instead for brick. Not only does brick have a carbon footprint roughly 5% that of steel, it also has a much closer regional aesthetic and cultural fit. In an area with a rich history of mudbrick building, the brick walls express a deep appreciation of local craftsmanship and heritage. And an open-weave brickwork structure, combined with solid brickwork elements, allows for a constant flow of air through to the building’s basement levels. Uncommon Land also worked with local highways consultants to reduce traffic volumes around the garden area, which will become the external face of project Solitaire.

I SHOPPING MALL

Contemporary and collaborative With extensive landscape experience in the Middle East, plus contemporary design expertise based on a portfolio of show-garden installations, Uncommon Land brings a unique combination of qualities to the table. Offering a different perspective on landscape, the team also has a deep understanding of the singular challenges presented by Middle Eastern geography and climate. Meeting these challenges head-on, the team specialises in using local conditions and circumstances to devise commercially and aesthetically impactful solutions. They are also passionate about addressing these challenges in the context of the broader climate emergency, using design as a vital tool to deliver responsible and sustainable project outcomes. During the design phase for Solitaire, Uncommon Land, with Benoy, worked hand-in-hand with the key project partners including environmental engineers, Elementa; civil engineers, WME; and lighting designers, Delta. In what was a productive and deeply collaborative process, the partners worked together to navigate multiple project complexities and solve the problems they faced. As the representative for Al-Marqab confirms: “Despite the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic, everyone worked together really well as a team. We had regular virtual meetings. It was a tightly controlled process. And we now have the answers to all our questions – we have the reassurance we need, and the positive feedback from retailers and prospective clients has been amazing.” And with construction teams recently breaking ground on site, this truly remarkable landscape and retail project is now underway, promising a green and sustainable future for the city and people of Riyadh.

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I URBAN ESCAPE

A coastal escape outside of Beijing Aranya is an immersive seaside urban escape popular with Chinese millennials seeking a laid-back lifestyle

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Located in the northern Chinese city of Qinhuangdao, two hours’ drive east from Beijing, the coast – ‘Golden Coast’ rising in popularity over the past decade parallels the country’s “urban escape” movement, as overworked urbanites dream of rural simplicity. One of the resorts on this coast called ’Aranya’ has gained significant popularity. It was built on an abandoned property and has been transformed into a laid-back seaside community attracting youngsters and overstressed city dwellers to its beach activities, art exhibitions, music festivals, minimalism landmark architecture edifices, and gourmet seafood. It has become an oasis for those seeking a peaceful and simple lifestyle surrounded by sand and surf. Since 2018, there has been a remarkable increase of visitors to Aranya, creating a beach that is easily overloaded, especially during the

summer months. Due to the crowded beaches and, as the sea is not always safe for everyone to play, more spaces in proximity with water amenities and play facilities are in high demand. Therefore, the developer searched for a site to provide interactive water amenities that could be easily managed. A 2-acre site directly adjacent to the beach was identified to accommodate amenities that cater to families with children seeking a more leisurely experience. The water attraction encompasses several design elements including: a children’s pool, swimming pool, trellis, lounging areas, and a swing set. These programmed elements offer a consistently simple and modern appearance. They accommodate all user groups and provide a relaxing experience next to the sea. The water features were designed to minimize their environmental impact, featuring a circulating

I URBAN ESCAPE

water filtration system that minimizes water usage. The hardscape surfaces are permeable and are colored to meet LEED requirements to minimize heat absorption. The design of the children’s pools starts with a “lemon slice”, which is reminiscent of a lemon juice drink people typically enjoy while on beach vacations. To enhance the likeness of the pool to a lemon slice, the floor is comprised of crystal mosaic tiles made from recycled materials in three colors - “white, light yellow and yellow”. The multi-colored detailed mosaic tiles are strategically placed to graphically represent a lemon and are highlighted by the rippling water of the pool. In contrast to the bright yellow of the lemon pool, the neighboring pure white trellis structure and blue rectangular lap pool offer coolness and moments of tranquility. The infinity swimming pool offers picturesque views of the expansive sea and is designed to accommodate adults and

older children. The nearby swing set provide a unque and playful experience on the beach with sea front views. The project has been well-received by its users following the pandemic, as continued fear of the virus’s impact has heightened the demand and desire to explore safe outdoor environments. Its quality materials and construction, accommodation of varying age groups, and environmentally sensitive water system have made the project a model for resort design and attracted thousands of users. It has become a new landmark for Aranya Resort along the coast.

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I WONDERLAND GARDEN

Just another day at the office

By: Jimena Martignoni The site chosen for the Walt Disney company office and headquarters in Argentina is located 40 kilometers northwest of the city of Buenos Aires. Edged on the south by the Pan-American Highway and surrounded by residential developments and a very established green environment, the architectural and landscape project benefits from an open area, unusually large for office use and the bonus of several existing, old trees. Clara Billoch, the landscape designer on the project, took advantage of this situation to create a woodland garden and a series of winding paths that develop around the only building. For her, the idea of a garden is that of “a place which makes people want to come out and walk and of a land that produces food.” With

this in mind she proposed a simple but straightforward layout with a park-like area wrapping three sides of the building and an orchard with fruit trees and edibles for local food production, located adjacent to the linear parking area at the opposite side of the park. At the same time, a number of requirements helped to model the project, some of them essential for these kinds of passive spaces and some specifically set by the architects and developers for the site. Among the general requirements for office buildings was the creation of peaceful outdoor areas which help

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worker morale, with trees for shade and flowers for colour and common spaces where employees can chat with colleagues or have a break to spend some free time on their own. The positive impact of views on employee wellbeing was the main reason to create extensive areas of flower beds on the rooftops. The presence of large areas planted with flowers was one of the specific requirements. Directors and senior executives have their offices at the top floor, opening onto wide open areas where six large concrete planters, three at each side of the building’s roof were built. Altogether the planters cover an area of 1,100 square meters, most of which is open to the entire staff. Another roof which was destined to be planted was that of the main entrance, where a semi-roofed area extending for 77 meters houses a first set of parking lots. This linear roof presents only two species of grasses with near-zero water requirements: Nassellatenuissima (Argentine needle-grass) and Eragrostiscurvula (weeping love grass). “Even in the

list includes Nasellatenuissima, Buxussempervirens (European box), Salvia greggii (autumn sage), Salvia nemorosa (sage), Salvia farinacea (mealy sage), Perovskia (Russian sage), Scabiosaatropurpurea (sweet scabious), Verbena hybrid (garden verbena) Achilea, Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ and Echinacea. This is the only area of the site where an irrigation system has been implemented. In order to meet the

summer we have to water the plants no more than once a month, just to keep them going,” explains Billoch. From the offices and the roofs of the building, this element appears as an elevated very long planter covered on grasses which offer luminous textures. The silver crests become light-attractors and generate a magical effect at certain times of the day, creating diverse visual situations depending on the position of the sun. The concrete planters on the roofs offer a selection of eleven herbaceous perennials and grasses all of which have a very good tolerance to wind conditions, sun exposure and drought. The plant

primary (drip) irrigation water requirements, rain water is collected from rooftops and ground run-off and stored in underground tanks with a total capacity of 8,000 liters. In the main park, where the key idea is the creation of a relaxing woodland garden, the landscape proposal also seeks to negotiate the existing elevation change between the building and street levels. With points reaching a change in elevation of 1.40 meters, the site was modeled as a combination of soft green slopes and planes reaching out to the edges of the site. Originally, the architectural plan envisioned some concrete low retaining walls; however, the landscape

I WONDERLAND GARDEN

designer decided to work with land undulations and strips of grasses and groundcovers for demarcation. Only two species — Carexdivulsa (grey sedge) and Miscanthusgracillimus (Gracillimus maiden grass)— make up this green undulating plane, both with very high draught tolerance, low-maintenance conditions and a very rapid growth cycle. The edges of the narrow gravel paths that go around the building are also planted with the evergreen ground-cover grasses, somehow strengthening the image of the woodland garden. As a counterpoint to these natural-looking borders, the lawn behind appears as bare planes; together, these two components make up a simple configuration which frame and highlight the modern lines of the architecture. In order to generate more attractive spots in the park, new clusters of fast growing trees were incorporated. Some of them spectacular when in bloom, such as Tabebuia (Pink trumpet tree) and Tipuanatipu (Tipu tree); some offering seasonal colour changes such as Acer saccharinum; some other celebrated for the exquisite perfume of its flowers such as Tiliaeuropea (Linden).

The orchard area, leaning against one of the lot´s enclosing walls and behind the general parking area, combines a 370 square meter- plot of citrus trees and a kitchen garden, both organized in a geometrical layout. The vegetables are planted in ten different wooden eight meter-long boxes; the original idea was having a continuous supply of fresh, healthy foods for the employees’ dining room but it turned out to be not enough. As a result, they’re now trying only cooking herbs which are easier to grow in higher volumes. Clara Billoch, who is also a specialist in gardens of production, has trained a small group of fifteen employees who volunteered to take care of the orchard. Over time, this team will be in charge of the managing and maintenance of this plot, ensuring the life and continuation of such a noble feature within the landscape. At the end of the day, people working in this inviting environment can honestly feel they are not spending just another day at the office. In 2017, the project achieved Gold certification, the secondhighest of LEED’s four levels.

Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina Landscape Designer: Clara Billoch Estudio de Paisajismo Design Team: Sol Casanovas, Damasia Julianes. Master Plan and architecture: Rodolfo Recondo Arquitectos Lot Area: 2.20 hectares. Park: 1 hectare. Rooftop: 1,100 sq meters. Orchard and kitchen garden: 550 sq meters. Photography: Clara Billoch, Tomas Rossi, Jimena Martignoni Location:

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I BOOK REVIEW

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BOOKS OF INTEREST OUDOLF HUMMELO ISBN-9781580934183 PRISE-215.00Dhs.

BOOK DESCRIPTION: “Piet Oudolf is best known for his now-iconic designs for the High Line in New York City and Millennium Park in Chicago. Hummelo, his own garden in The Netherlands, is visited by thousands of gardeners each year. It serves as his personal design and plant propagation laboratory, and is where he has honed his aesthetic and created new varieties of plants for over three decades. This title charts how the garden of one of the world’s best-known and most-loved plantsmen has evolved, and gives frank assessments of his experiments that have gone both well and awry. Hummelo, timed to coincide with Oudolf’s 70th birthday and his acceptance of Holland’s most prestigious cultural award, provides his throngs of followers with a chronology of how his naturalistic style and career has developed. Lush photography documents how the garden has changed and inspired him over the years, and text by prolific garden writer Noel Kingsbury will ensure a lively read for all home garden enthusiast”

ROOTED IN SESIGN ISBN-9781607746973 PRISE-107.00Dhs. BOOK DESCRIPTION: A stylish and full-color guide to creatively integrating indoor plants with home decor from the owners of the popular Sprout Home garden design boutiques. Indoor plants play a large role in the design and feel of a space. Focusing on indoor gardening--from small containers and vertical installations with air plants to unique tabletop creations--Rooted in Design provides readers with the means to create beautiful and long-lasting indoor landscapes. Tara Heibel and Tassy De Give, owners of the successful Sprout Home gardening stores, offer expert advice for choosing plant varieties and pairing them with unique design ideas. Sharing practical tips honed through hundreds of plant design classes, Heibel and DeGive tell readers everything they need to know to care for their one-of-a-kind green creations

URBAN ENVIRONMENTAL LANDSCAPE ISBN: 9781864706307 Author: Dieter Grau Hardcover: 256 pages

Publication Date: (10 Jun. 2015) BOOK DESCRIPTIONS: The book provides the latest trends in urban environmental landscaping, with informative chapters on basic principles, dimensions, reference standards and considerations across a range of themes, such as public parks, public plazas, waterfront public open spaces, and urban street environments It Showcases a broad range of informative high-quality projects spanning the United States, Mexico, Australia, China, and Europe and provides comprehensive reference material for architects, urban planners, preservationists ,and landscape designers, and all who are directly involved in town planning in the urban environment. For each part, we selected the most striking cases with the newest design standards to showcase spectacular landscape design.

With its headquarter in Tokyo, Japan and world class stores spread over countries like America, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Taiwan and now in DUBAI – UAE, Kinokuniya is a globally known book seller of repute. The store in Dubai Mall is a massive 68,000 square feet wide paragon book gallery which stocks more than half a million books and thousand magazines in English, Arabic, Japanese, French, German and Chinese at any given time. The Store is also a distinct cross cultural hub wide range of time to time multicultural events such a comic art demonstrations, language learning workshops, book launches etc. The pleasant ambiance, stenographic design and add to it the impressive view of modern skyline – world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, Kinokuniya at The Dubai Mall is just the place to evoke emotions and add pleasure to your book shopping. You may like to visit our website for more information. www.kinokuniya.com

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NEW & CURRENT PROJECTS Tender Name

Description

Client

Region

Tender Cost (USD)

Post Date

Closing Date

Aesthetic Agriculture & Irrigation Maintenance

Execution, Development and Maintenance of Aesthetic Agriculture and Irrigation in Bayan Palace.

Amiri Diwan (Kuwait)

Kuwait

3333

2/12/2022

5/8/2022

Gardening & Agricultural Service

Provision of Gardening and Agricultural Service and Irrigation of the Garden.

Ministry of Health (Oman)

Oman

3/29/2022

4/28/2022

Agriculture, Landscaping & Irrigation Maintenance

Execution, Development, Coordination and Maintenance of Aesthetic Agriculture, Landscaping and Irrigation in the North Campus

Kuwait University

Kuwait

3333

3/14/2022

4/24/2022

Gardens Maintenance Works

Maintenance and Operation of Gardens, Green Spaces, Trees, Irrigation Networks and Pumps.

Eastern Province Municipality Emara (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

5467

2/12/2022

4/20/2022

Irrigating Trees & Plantings

Supply of Water for Drinking, Irrigating Trees, Plantings, and Plant Nurseries, and Fire Tanks with Removal of Sewage for Various Sites.

Kuwait University

Kuwait

250

3/29/2022

4/19/2022

Irrigation Canals & Networks Construction

Construction of Irrigation Canals and Networks Using Labour-Intensive Approach Boudai, Saaideh, & Flewa, Baalbeck.

United Nations Development Programme - UNDP (Lebanon)

Lebanon

3/28/2022

4/18/2022

Nurseries Materials

Supply and Installation of Materials for Nurseries of the Horticultural Research Center.

Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

267

3/28/2022

4/18/2022

Agriculture, Landscaping & Irrigation Maintenance

Execution, Development, Coordination and Maintenance of Aesthetic Agriculture, Landscaping and Irrigation.

Kuwait University

Kuwait

3333

3/16/2022

4/17/2022

3333

1/19/2022

4/17/2022

Agricultural Works

Maintenance of Internal and External Agricultural Works.

National Guard (Kuwait)

Kuwait

Irrigation Canals & Networks Construction

Construction of Irrigation Canals and Networks Using Labour-Intensive Approach Kherbet Daoud and Majdal, Akkar.

United Nations Development Programme - UNDP (Lebanon)

Lebanon

3/28/2022

4/15/2022

Hygiene & Agricultural Services

Provision of Hygiene and Agricultural Services and Hazardous Medical Waste.

King Saud University (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

4/1/2022

4/14/2022

Irrigation Channels & Rehabilitation

Provision of Irrigation Channels, Rehabilitation and Construction.

Mada Association (Lebanon)

Lebanon

4/2/2022

4/13/2022

Summer Flowers

Supply of Summer Flowers.

Tabuk Municipality (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

187

3/29/2022

4/13/2022

Buildings Maintenance Works

Maintenance of Municipal Buildings, Gardens, Parks and Irrigation Networks.

Al Baha Municipality (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

400

3/16/2022

4/13/2022

Agricultural Materials & Tools

Supplying Agricultural Materials and Agricultural Tools.

Tabuk Municipality (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

147

3/30/2022

4/12/2022

Gardens & Irrigation Networks Maintenance

Maintenance of Gardens, Irrigation Networks and Removal of Weeds, Also Manufacture and Supply of Security Signs under Two Contracts.

Egyptian Airports Company

Egypt

3/24/2022

4/12/2022

Gardens Maintenance

Maintenance of Gardens, Irrigation Networks and Removal of Weeds, Also Manufacture and Supply of Security Signs.

Egyptian Airports Company

Egypt

3/23/2022

4/12/2022

Trees & Shrubs

Supplying Trees and Shrubs for the Axis of Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Road.

Makkah Region Development Authority (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

400

3/14/2022

4/7/2022

Sub-Irrigation Network

Supplying a Sub-Irrigation Network and Modern Greenhouses with All its Accessories.

Madinah Municipality (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

3/25/2022

4/6/2022

Agriculture, Landscaping & Irrigation Maintenance

Execution, Development, Coordination and Maintenance of Aesthetic Agriculture, Landscaping and Irrigation.

Kuwait University

Kuwait

3333

2/8/2022

3/13/2022

Aesthetic Agricultures Maintenance

Execution, Development and Maintenance of Aesthetic Agricultures.

Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs & Fish Resources - PAAFR (Kuwait)

Kuwait

3333

12/14/2021

3/13/2022

Irrigation Maintenance

Maintenance and Irrigation of Gardens and Parks South of Taif.

Taif Secretariat (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

933

12/8/2021

1/10/2022

Planting & Maintenance Works

Maintenance and Planting of the KISRs yards and gardens in Shuwaikh and external sites

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR)

Kuwait

1000

11/30/2021

3/1/2022

Gardens Maintenance Works

Maintenance and Operation of Gardens, Green Spaces, Trees, Irrigation Networks and Pumps.

Eastern Province Municipality - Emara (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

5467

11/22/2021

2/1/2022

Gardens Maintenance Works

Arrangement and Maintenance of Gardens, Indoor and Outdoor Plants and Irrigation Networks.

Ministry of Justice (Kuwait)

Kuwait

1000

11/16/2021

2/13/2022

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