April 2023

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to the April Issue! Read about the Urban Conga, an award-winning multidisciplinary design studio made up of a diverse group of creatives based in Brooklyn, New York, in our feature about how to create ‘Playable Cities’. They investigate how play can begin to exist in everyday spaces and encourage people to think about these spaces that could become PLAYces: like walkways, bus stops, street lights, park benches, or just the everyday spaces in-between.

Jordanian landscape architect, Yazan K. Mahadin of MK Associates, delves into the importance of landscape architecture in the fight against climate change in her article: The Intersection of Art and Survival on page26

The new ConfEx Park in the Northern Greek city of Thessaloniki has been described as an emblem of the city’s present and future ambitions. The new landscape design of the park respects its rich heritage in a contemporary form, making it a destination for all who live in and visit the city. Read more about the design and plant selection on page 32

Since it’s considered a luxury to have a garden in Taiwan, when residents design it, they don’t hold back! Star House integrates greenery into the exterior façades so every window has a view of it, and the ground floor courtyard ‘Zen’ garden — inspired by Japanese gardens, is a nod to the clients’ youthful years in Japan. Read page 22

Located in Saadiyat Island’s cultural district, Abrahamic Family House is a collection of three religious spaces: a mosque, a church, and a synagogue— all of which will sit upon a fourth secular space consisting of a Forum and raised garden. Designed by Adjaye Associates, the unique space will serve as a community for interfaith dialogue and exchange, nurturing the values of peaceful co-existence and acceptance among different beliefs, nationalities, and cultures. Read page 34.

Enjoy the issue! Please email us admin@landscape-me.com if you would like to have your company’s landscape projects featured in the magazine.

Managing Partner: Ziad Maarouf Amine

Copy Editor: John Hampton

Administrative Assistance: Sarry Gan

Art Director: Ramon Andaya

Contributors: Nikola Nikolic, Ryan Langley, Julie Yeh, Ghida Abiad, Yazan Mahadin, Natasha Smith

Printed by: Al Nisr Publishing LLC

Webmaster: www.pdinventive.com

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opinions and views contained in the articles in this publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the publishers. The publishers cannot be held liable for any mistake or omission enclosed in the publication.

Memorandum of Cooperation Signing

International Federation of Landscape Architects and the Landscape Middle East Magazine

The Middle East chapter of the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA ME) and the Landscape Middle East Magazine (LMEM) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on Friday, the 14th of April, 2023, in the headquarters of LMEM in Dubai to promote the achievements and increase awareness on the landscape profession in the Middle East region through knowledge management, bringing together landscape professionals in the region and driving excellence for landscape architecture.

Jala Makhzoumi, acting Middle East Chapter President of IFLA, and Ziad Amine, Managing Partner of MEMEDIA Publishing, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation that aims to bring together landscape professionals in the region, contribute to knowledge management, and drive excellence in landscape architecture.

IFLA ME, as the regional chapter representing the Middle East region, covers GCC countries and countries of the Levant. It is one of five regions under the International Federation of Landscape Architects, the international organization representing 77 national landscape associations. IFLA ME is committed to working with the landscape community to support the establishment of national landscape associations in the region, as currently, only three countries have national associations.

LMEM has been publishing landscape projects and showcasing the work of landscape professionals for 16 years. Now, in collaboration with IFLA ME, the magazine will expand its horizons and feature sections, initiatives, and programs related to landscape architecture. This partnership is an important step towards promoting the achievements of the landscape profession and increasing awareness of its importance in the Middle East region.

Jala Makhzoumi, acting Middle East Chapter President of IFLA and Ziad Amine, Managing Partner of Landscape Middle East magazine

Following on from the resounding success at the Dubai Opera, UltraScape flowpoint tropical has once again been specified to install 15,000sqm of paving at the Opera Grand, the new icon of the Opera District.

Opera Grand provides easy access to the vibrant Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. The stunning 70-storey towers are the epitome of luxury living. From one-bedroom opulent apartments to podium level townhouses, rooftop pool, gym, health club and theatre rooms, Opera Grand offers its residents the ‘perfect blend of luxury and culture.’

The Challenge

The soaring temperatures of Dubai provides the biggest challenge for all building materials. Utilising materials that will not only withstand the heavy footfall of the Opera Grand, but will perform as specified, even in hot temperatures, was paramount to the success.

It was also critical to Jacobs, the consultant working on the project, that the chosen jointing compound had a durable, yet beautiful finish that would fit within the perfectly orchestrated architecture.

The Solution

UltraScape and Tanseeq LLC have partnered regularly on several projects with UltraScape delivering complete confidence and reassurance every time. Familiar with the outstanding performance of flowpoint tropical grout (fully compliant with BS7533), the contractor Proscape LLC were confident they could get the job done efficiently with the desired result.

UltraScape paves the ultimate address in Dubai

Tanseeq LLC and UltraScape have partnered once again to see the installation of 15,000sqm of paving at the Downtown Development Opera district including the Opera Grand – the ultimate address in Dubai.

UltraScape flowpoint tropical is a flowable grout which allows for large areas of paving to be grouted quickly. Suitable for joints from 3mm to 50mm and as deep as 200mm, flowpoint has been developed over a number of years to provide a durable finish which will not crack or stain – even in the extremely hot temperatures often experienced in Dubai.

With an initial set after just 15 minutes, and a walk on time of one hour, it is unsurprising that flowpoint tropical has become synonymous with fast application, cost-effective and robust jointing.

Opera Grand is the latest in a long line of prestigious projects for UltraScape’s Mortar Paving System in Dubai. Other projects include Residences Sky View, MBR City, City Walk and Dubai Opera House.

Only a few months since her graduation from the College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) at American University of Sharjah (AUS), Maitha Al Hammadi is being recognized for forging her own path as she applies her Bachelor of Architecture degree to the field of sustainable landscape design.

Launching her career as a landscape designer with global infrastructure developer Parsons, Al Hammadi said she realized before graduation that she wanted to do something beyond working in traditional architecture practice.

“The architecture program at CAAD had a focus on how to design buildings formally and materially, however some instructors’ design methods came from a respect for the landscape. Being exposed to this, I found my personal interests growing towards landscape architecture and decided to give it a try,” she said.

AUS is number one in the UAE and among the top 200 universities globally for architecture and the built environment (QS World University Subject Rankings, 2023). A recent symposium celebrating CAAD’s first 25 years highlighted the flexibility of graduates who, like Al Hammadi, have gone on to make contributions in areas beyond their undergraduate major, applying their CAAD education across many fields.

AUS architecture graduate turns to landscape design with award winning results

Maitha Al Hammadi credits a focus on sustainable-thinking during her university studies for her career in Landscape design

Earlier this month, Al Hammadi won the 2022 TotalEnergies Sustainability Award, which recognizes young Emiratis in the fields of sustainable design and architecture.

Her work, “Agro-Industrial Tourism”, which she produced under the supervision of Associate Professor Jason Carlow during her final year of studies in the CAAD, imagines a sustainable destination between Etihad Rail and the UAE’s agricultural setting, merging agriculture, tourism, soil and aquifer treatment, and utilizing waste from the UAE’s dates industry.

Al Hammadi reflected that during her five years on campus, sustainability was a common thread throughout her university experience. In 2021, she and fellow CAAD student Afra AlFalasi won first place for their original design for a sustainable floating school in a flood-impacted area of Bangladesh, as part of the Climate Change Challenge initiated by the Fatima bint Hazza Foundation.

“I would say that sustainable thinking was something I got out of my educational experience at AUS. We had sustainability-themed initiatives taking place on campus all the time and sustainable approaches

in design were always part of the discussion and conversation in architecture studios,” she said.

“This equipped me for my current job, where sustainable design is definitely taken into consideration and is encouraged wherever relevant and applicable, given that the construction industry makes up a large portion of pollution in the atmosphere,” she said.

Jason Carlow said CAAD is the ideal choice for students who aspire to a career in design and also want to be part of an institution that prioritizes sustainability.

“Maitha’s project was sophisticated in thinking about how economic and cultural ideas for sustainability are combined with respect for the UAE’s landscape and agricultural ecology,” said Carlow.

“As part of the university’s sustainability agenda, all AUS students are equipped to do this—to think critically about sustainability in both academic and extracurricular activities, regardless of their major. For architecture students like Maitha, AUS offers incredible opportunities to apply sustainable thinking to the future of design and planning,” he said.

Akar completes Dh70 Million Port de La Mer project in Dubai’s beachfront district of Jumeirah

The project is a part of the 9.5 million sq ft development across Dubai’s beachfront district of Jumeirah

Leading landscaping contractor Akar Technical Services has successfully completed work at Port de La Mer project valued at Dh70 million in Dubai, UAE- positively contributing to the country’s everexpanding real estate portfolio. The project is a part of the 9.5 million sq ft comprehensive development across Dubai’s beachfront district of Jumeirah, which aims to enhance the social and economic capabilities of Dubai as a region and set new global benchmarks for beachfront developments.

As part of the project, soft landscaping work included more than thousand trees (big and small)

planted to form a green belt along the roadsides of the area, and more than forty thousand shrubs were planted across the four district zones. Approximately fifty thousand ground covers and nearly five thousand climbers/grasses, too, have been used to transform the sparse space into a rich tapestry of textures, shapes and continual color.

While hardscaping encompassed elements like installation of precast concrete kerbs; porcelain paver, clay paver, clay paver banding, clay paver banding, granite banding, precast concrete pavers, precast concrete banding, granite banding, decomposed

gravel, play area surface (sand), pots, shade structure and water feature have been accomplished by the contracting firm to create an ideal combination of dry and water hardscapes that can not only improve the livability and beauty, but also provide a contemporary design which is incredibly durable, skid-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain.

Speaking about the project, Adnan Nalwala, executive director, Akar Technical Services, said, “Our efforts have been concerted to enhance the aesthetic appearance and beauty of the area through

implementing best practices in a way that lives up to the status of Dubai as an international hub. Our firm uses cutting-edge technologies and innovative methods to implement its landscaping projects across the city. At the core, Akar’s landscaping projects aim to achieve the sustainability of the country, improve air quality and boost the community’s mental and overall physical well-being.”

Highlighting the importance of technical aspects of the project, Raja Subedi, Director, Akar Technical Services, stated. “Our emphasis on sound project management and ensuring that all technical matters are addressed in due course has enabled us to execute this project. This would have not been possible without the support of the consultants and client on site.”

Lastly to illuminate the area, improving the beauty, safety and security of the Port de La Mer, landscape lights to the tune of approximately fifteen hundred, strips and cables have been installed by Akar to let the visitors and residents enjoy their outdoor living spaces after the sun goes down.

Meet the Founders

Nikola Nikolic and Joaquim Cano are the co-founders of KALQ Studio, a Dubai based Landscape design practice dedicated to creating public spaces that celebrate heritage and culture.

What makes a brilliant landscape architect?

Nikola: A brilliant landscape architect must be versatile and comfortable wearing many hats and getting their “hands dirty”. This includes everything from presenting ideas to clients and stakeholders to developing designs and sketches, site visits and overseeing construction.

Another essential trait for a landscape architect is the ability to approach each project with a fresh perspective rather than relying on a cookie-cutter approach. Every project is different and requires a unique set of skills and tools to succeed. And finally, a brilliant landscape architect is committed to constant learning and development. Staying up to date with the latest techniques and technologies in the field

and seeking new ideas and approaches. It also means learning from every project and every client and finding creative solutions to bring everyone’s vision into reality.

What did your background in landscape construction benefit you when starting out as an LA?

Joaquim: We had a chance to work on significant cultural and heritage projects in the region that allowed us to gain a deep understanding, as well as the importance of context and site-specific design. We appreciate the value of creating landscapes that are in harmony with their surroundings and that celebrate a place’s unique history and culture.

Joaquim Cano & Nikola Nikolic

Some of these projects were international competitions that allowed us to experiment with new ideas and push the boundaries of what was possible in landscape architecture. Our background taught us the importance of understanding the past to build for the future. By recognizing a site’s historical and cultural context and incorporating that knowledge into the design process, we were able to create beautiful, functional but also meaningful, and authentic landscapes. This approach has been essential in our work as landscape architects and has helped us create more inspiring and sustainable spaces.

What do you love most about the UAE landscape industry?

Nikola: People in the UAE strongly appreciate welldesigned places and are always looking for something new and fresh. That pushes us as designers to constantly find new ways to improve our work and design skills. This passion for great design makes working in the UAE landscape industry extremely exciting and rewarding. At the same time, there is a need for public open space in the UAE, and we can see that being changed in recent years with some new, very successful projects being

completed. This presents an opportunity for landscape architects to play a vital role in shaping the future of the UAE’s urban environments. The UAE has always been a step ahead regarding cutting-edge design and development, and we are excited to see what the future holds for the landscape industry in the region. We are proud to be part of its journey.

Beyond the differences in climate and typographies, what do you consider the main differences between working in different countries within the GCC?

Joaquim: The GCC region consistently maintains a forward-thinking perspective. Many initiatives and proposals from private and public entities position this region as an ideal location to identify opportunities for personal and corporate growth. In recent years, we have observed a shift in the market, with clients demonstrating greater receptiveness to unconventional, innovative proposals previously untested in the region. Our team’s diverse backgrounds allow us to introduce proposals that have been successfully implemented internationally, adapting them to meet the region’s demands.

I INTERVIEW

In our view, the GCC region presents vast potential for development, which was a key factor in our decision to establish KALQ here. Our optimism regarding the region’s future is further reinforced by the promising initiatives that are currently underway, including the Dubai2040 Urban Master Plan and the Green Riyadh 2030 projects. We are incredibly enthusiastic about the innovative projects set to emerge from these and other similar initiatives, and we look forward to playing an active role in shaping the future of the GCC through our studio’s work.

What prompted you to set up your landscape design studio KALQ?

Joaquim: Both of us have a very distinct aesthetic that clients recognize and appreciate. Over the years, we have developed a reputation for delivering highquality designs that reflect our unique vision and style. We wanted to associate that reputation with our brand and felt that the time was right for us to strike out on our own.

Starting our own business allowed us to focus on the types of projects we are most passionate about and work with clients who share our vision and values. It also allowed us to take a more hands-on approach to design and construction and be more involved in every aspect of the process.

Your only a few months in but what’s been the hardest thing so far about running your own company?

Nikola: We have been in the industry for a while and have a lot of experience working with clients and managing projects; some challenges have been associated with starting our own business. One of the hardest things was taking the first step and leaving our roles in established companies to pursue our own venture. It involved a level of risk we had to be prepared to encounter.

There can be a sort of stigma associated with a start-up, it takes time to gain the trust and confidence of clients who are used to working with more established firms. One of the biggest challenges has been to separate ourselves from our previous employers and establish ourselves as independent players in the industry.

We’ve taken time to carefully considered how to structure and grow the business. There are many different factors to consider, from hiring staff and managing finances to developing a marketing strategy and building client relationships. It can be overwhelming at times, and it’s important to have a clear vision and goals in mind to stay focused on the bigger picture.

Despite all of it, we are fortunate to have great support and partners who share our vision and values. We are confident in our ability to deliver high-quality designs and exceptional customer service and are excited to see what the future holds for KALQ.

What would you like your company’s signature to be?

Joaquim: Our signature style is a combination of modern design elements and traditional cultural influences. We draw inspiration from the region’s rich heritage and natural environment, and we strive to create projects that showcase these elements in a contemporary and innovative way.

As we look to the future, our goal is to continue to refine and evolve our aesthetic while staying true to our values and vision. By creating a strong and recognizable brand, we can build lasting relationships with clients and stakeholders and position ourselves in the industry. We are already working on several exciting projects that address some of the environmental issues in the region

and we hope to continue this trend to help the UAE and the GCC become global leaders in sustainable design and development. We’re also heavily involved in the hospitality sector and are working with some wellknown global brands that are making a big entrance into the UAE and GCC markets.

How important is being a mentor to you for the next generation of landscape architects and designers?

Nikola: As experienced professionals who have worked in both boutique and large corporations, we understand the importance of mentoring and passing on knowledge to younger generations. That is what makes a company great and helps younger professionals feel appreciated, heard, and supported in their careers. We believe that investing in the next generation of landscape architects and designers is beneficial not only for the individuals involved but also for the industry as a whole.

Finally, can you sum up how important this industry is to you?

Nikola: Tadao Ando once said: “I believe the way people live can be a bit directed by the architecture.” and we couldn’t agree more. Our surroundings play a vital role in shaping the way we live, work, and interact with each other. As landscape architects, we have a responsibility to design spaces that not only look beautiful but inspire and enrich the lives of those who use them and take great care to consider the end user and their experience in our design process.

We firmly believe that well-designed surroundings can have a positive effect on younger generations and inspire them to strive for bigger and better things. By creating aesthetically pleasing, functional, and sustainable spaces, we can create an environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and a sense of community.

A Garden with a View A Hidden Gem in the Hills of Oman.

By Ghida Abiad & Yolla El Khoueiry Landscape Architecture Associates -LAA-

It is said that gardens nurture the spirit, and the recently completed garden of a residential villa is a testimony of the beauty and tranquility of a garden surrounded by the majestic mountains of Oman.

The project was designed and executed during the pandemic with all the challenges that came with it. The magnificent result is a modern yet authentic garden overlooking the majestic mountains and palm oasis, created from Omani stone and local workmanship. The success of the project was seen in the delight of its owners whose expectations were exceeded. A key factor was the exceptional collaboration between all parties involved, including the villa owners who were involved in each step of the design and execution process. The multi-functional team of local professional suppliers, engineers and consultants also proved essential to keep the project going amid supply restrictions and lockdowns.

The owners have an active social life. They entertain often, their kids invite friends over and they love the outdoors. They had been struggling for years to find a solution for the outdoor space surrounding their modern villa. The client and his wife explained that shading was essential, as the land is very exposed to the sun and wind. Yet, they were also worried about blocking the view of the majestic mountains. Another dichotomy was that they wanted a space to entertain large groups and yet feel cosy for smaller everyday family gatherings. Finally, an “interesting” separation with the neighbour, one that does not appear like a linear divide, was needed without compromising the openness to the outdoor environment. It was important for us to spend time with the family and get to know them, so that they take a very active part in the vision and overall design —reflecting their lifestyle and values.

This boundary wall between the client’s house and his neighbour consisted of several sections, each serving a different function. While acting as a partition, the structure represented a versatile and interesting element that fulfilled the client’s different needs. The various materials used in harmony and symmetry, combined with the multi functionality of the structure ended up creating a unique character for the garden.

The Pergola: A main feature of the design

A nine-meter-long pergola was the solution for a shaded space for the family and guests. The immediate problem was executing a structure of nine meters without obstructing the view of the mountains. The steel structure was then completed with beautiful Sapele wood to form the highend shade covering the entertaining area. With attention to detail and without a single screw, we were able to design and execute this elegant pergola and make it stand out in the design.

The section of the wall under the pergola was used to create the BBQ and pizzaoven working counter, with a hood on top to suck the smell and smoke.

The boundary wall: A versatile separation from the neighbour

Opposite the pool, the partition ended with louvers of steel and wood which give privacy to the pool while providing some transparency. Along this wall, a shower was placed for swimmers going out of the pool.

Symmetrically, on the other side of the workstation, we placed a hand wash basin for the guests.

The space under the pergola was divided by a two-level counter, one serving the entertainment side and the other serving the BBQ area. The countertop consisted of a special travertine stone, while below wooden cabinets and shelves were placed. Altogether, the details and lighting produce a special effect, especially while entertaining guests.

The furniture:

The furniture was designed to follow the grid of the pergola and the tiles, creating the best layout for that space. The outdoor furniture was also fabricated in Muscat by the same professional wood supplier making the pergola, resulting in an elegant, integrated, and seamless look.

The stone tiling: local Omani stone

Beautiful white Omani stone was chosen for the flooring, stairs, and benches. The 5cm thick floor tiles where mostly cut to size to follow the grid of the pergola and pool which achieved a sense of harmony.

The other seating area: Solid stone benches with a fire pit

Another seating area was created out of solid Omani stone with a fireplace in the middle overlooking the pool to enjoy moonlit nights. The installation of these stones was an additional challenge, but the result was worth it. All the grooves in the benches follow the grid of the flooring which in turn follows the grid of the pool. This gives the feel of complete harmony and simplicity.

Finally, to create a connection between an outdoor kitchen and the new garden, another stone cladded staircase was created with a wooden and steel louvre handrail. Using the same details as the fence provides a feeling of balance and harmony.

The Omani stone was also used for the support of a one-of-a-kind buffet counter. For the top, we chose the same sapele wood. This buffet sits as a sculpture to one side of the pergola surrounded by beautiful plants on either side and flowering ground cover from below.

We used the space under the stairs to create a toilet and changing area for guests and swimmers.

Lighting and planting: No garden is complete without the lights and plants.

The lighting was carefully studied and selected to provide a variety of moods in the evening. Indirect lights were used to accentuate the floating steps and the benches while the pergola lights followed the grid and lit the necessary areas spot on. Up lights were chosen for the trees and pergola pillars.

The frankincense tree further gives it an authentic Omani character.

The plants followed the hardscape and accentuated its lines. Indigenous plants like the frankincense tree and the desert rose were chosen to give the garden its true Omani identity. The plants were carefully chosen and placed with precision to create focal

points in the garden. Shades of pink and white flowers were repeated to give the sense of harmony. Gardenias and other plants with aromas were planted near the house to fulfil the sense of smell. The palm trees in the garden are a continuation of the palm oasis nearby.

Who we are:

Landscape Architecture Associates, LAA, is a multidisciplinary landscape architecture design team that includes a group of designers and architects collaborating on different projects across the Middle East. We offer innovative solutions to landscape design challenges, inspired by nature and driven by a passion to improve our client’s wellbeing and value of their property.

• Representative associate in Muscat Oman: Eng. GHIDA ABIAD

Email: ghid70@gmail.com, Mobile: +96898537005

• Representative associate in the USA: Architect Yolla EL Khoueiry

Email: khyolla@gmail.com

Mobile: +16264974297

Photo credit: Emmy Culianez

A wild rooftop haven sits above Taiwan’s urban jungle

Irises are planted along a sloped path leading to the backyard.

Night view of the backyard garden.

Tropical carpet grass is spread across the entire roof with zones of shrubs, a mixture of native Seremban, Pennisetum with Jasmine, Lantana and Rosemary, creating a prairie with therapeutic fragrances.

A majestic Pine tree stems out from the middle of the calming infinity pool, which is also an ecological pond with Koi fishes.

Having a garden in a densely populated city of Kaohsiung in Southern Taiwan is a luxury, with this in mind it was decided that Star House would not only integrate greenery into the building’s design concept but it would become a focal point of the project. While all exterior façades are closed off from the street, every room has an unobstructed view and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that can open up towards the inner courtyard. Located on

Besides being an ecological haven above the city of urban jungle, the roof garden also benefits the house on a functional level: By installing the soil on top of the roof, it has brought down the temperature significantly under the tropical sun

Located on the ground floor of the courtyard, the zen garden--inspired by Japanese gardens as a nod to the clients’ youthful years in Japan--- employs geometry to represent an idealized version of heaven.

Façade of Star House is deliberately closed off from the street, with only a peak of the bamboo garden through the openings of the fence.

the ground floor of the courtyard, the Zen garden — inspired by Japanese gardens as a nod to the clients’ youthful years in Japan — employs geometry to represent an idealized version of heaven. A majestic Pine tree stems out from the middle of the calming infinity pool, which is also an ecological pond with Koi fishes. Irises are planted along a sloped path leading to the backyard, where a mini bamboo and fern forest surround the periphery of the lot, shielding the house from the public gaze. Lightings are kept minimal at night, mainly spritzes of LED lights supported by clear acrylic rods, mimicking the fireflies.

In contrast to the reserve and the calming nature of the ground floor garden, the roof garden is deliberately wild. It is symbolic of the plants natural state: tropical carpet grass is spread across the entire roof with zones of shrubs, a mixture of native Seremban, Pennisetum with Jasmine, Lantana and Rosemary, creating a prairie with therapeutic

fragrances. At least five species of butterflies have been observed to take refuge and lay eggs in this floating prairie. The Thunbergia grown along the tall fence has also become popular among birds, where Chinese Bulbuls and Japanese White-eye check in to build their nests in the spring.

Besides being an ecological haven above the city’s urban jungle, the roof garden also benefits the house on a functional level. By installing soil on top of the roof, it has brought down the temperature significantly under the tropical sun. It’s also sustainable by re-directing rainwater into an intricate aquaponics water system where an underground reservoir recirculates pond runoff to irrigate the garden with natural fertilizer created by the fish.

And thus, a new type of relationship with nature is established: The daily routine is transcended from mundane to sublime, and one’s existence, terrestrial to celestial.

Lightings are kept minimal at night, mainly spritzes of LED lights supported by clear acrylic rods, mimicking the fireflies.

Project Title: Star House

Location: Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Client: Sheng-Lee Chang

Year of completion: 2022

Project Architect & Landscape Architect: Grace Ming-En Chang

Architecture office: atelier GRATIA www.atelierGRATIA. com

Collaborator: Jiang Fang-Nan Architecture Office (Architect of Record)

Consultants: Top Technic Engineering Consultant Co., LTD (Structure), LHLD Lighting Design, A.S Studio (Structure)

Contractor: Fuguach Architecture

Landscape: Green Empire Landscape

Total floor area: 613 m2

Photography: Yi-Hsien Lee, courtesy of atelier GRATIA

A mini bamboo and fern forest surround the periphery of the lot, shielding the house from the public gaze.

The roof garden is deliberately designed to be wild to symbolize liberation.

An aerial view of the roof garden.

The Intersection of Art and Survival

Why Landscape Architecture is critical in the fight against climate change

By: Yazan K. Mahadin Jordanian Architect and Landscape Architect

In 2014, after winning a couple of awards from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the American Society of Landscape Architecture (ASLA), I started a lecture series titled “Landscape Architecture: Art for Survival,” which aims to enlighten the public about the vital role of landscape architecture in tackling global environmental issues. Through my lectures, I emphasize how landscape architecture can serve as both an art and science to create outdoor areas that not only offer social and economic advantages but also aid in combating climate change and achieving global sustainable objectives.

Kamel O. Mahadin and Yazan K. Mahadin working on the Baptism Development Zone

My team and I are committed to sustainability in all our projects. Our designs prioritize the use of native plants, which are better suited to local conditions, require less water, and are easier to maintain than non-native varieties. We also utilize water storm management methods to minimize the impact of storms on the environment and infrastructure. Moreover, we integrate solar energy into our designs, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources while promoting the use of renewable energy.

As climate change and population growth increasingly threaten our planet, the need for sustainable outdoor spaces becomes more pressing. Landscape architects like me play an essential part in designing these spaces, and our work is crucial to building a more sustainable and resilient future.

I was lucky to be part of the design team and one of the master planners for the Baptism Development Zone Masterplan project, which was launched by His Majesty King Abdullah II in December 2022 on the banks of the Jordan River, where Jesus Christ was baptized. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the most religious site in Jordan and attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and visitors every year. The goal of the

project is to create a world-class destination for religious tourism while also preserving the natural beauty of the area and promoting sustainable development.

The Baptism Development Zone (Bethany Beyond the Jordan) is divided into two major sites: the environmentally dense vegetation ground cover overlooking the Jordan Valley, where the baptism site is located, and the Baptism Development Zone, almost around the visitor center area. The land limits are from the major access road almost to the conference center, and the total area of the Baptism Development Zone in the buffer zone is approximately 1374 dunums of land.

Our vision and approach for the Baptism Development Zone project is centered around the protection and restoration of the natural environment. This includes the conservation of the wilderness, restoration of habitat, and revegetation efforts. Additionally, we implement adaptive management practices that support climate resilience. We also prioritize the respect and preservation of the area’s cultural and natural heritage, including geological features and postsettlement cultural heritage.

The site is designed to be a must-visit recreational destination that provides innovative opportunities for visitors to engage with the wilderness. This includes the development of trails of varying lengths and easy access points, parking, pathways, and facilities that accommodate people of all ages. Education and research are also a key

focus, with designated areas for research and innovative centers. Schools, universities, and other research institutions are encouraged to visit the site to increase their knowledge.

We believe that ongoing community involvement is also crucial and we have incorporated this into our plan by designing iconic spaces and places that merge all people of different communities, dominations, and cultures. Ecotourism is also a key aspect of our vision, as it supports small-scale commercial activities that enhance people’s connection with the natural environment and wilderness. We have designed large-scale infrastructure and landscape modifications to accommodate these activities

and events that add value to local businesses and the wider community. Additionally, we have considered sites for activities that make a positive economic contribution to the park.

The project aims to develop the site into a global destination for a holistic tourism experience that encompasses the religious, historical, wellness, and recreational functions in one area within the wilderness of the site. The new Foundation for the Development of Lands Adjacent to the Baptism Site owns the land, manages the development zone, and is entrusted with the implementation of the master plan and fulfilling the project’s vision and objectives. The Agricultural Farms Zone includes a parking area for 750 cars, staff units, civil defense units, a water treatment plant, and service buildings. In the middle of this zone, there is a node that contains two farm-to-table restaurants, local shops for the surrounding community, green spaces, as well as soft and hard landscape elements. The Pilgrimage Village zone is located in the western part of the site and includes an information center, administration museum, amphitheater, boutique hotel (60 keys), master hotel (300 keys), shops, cafes, and restaurants all of which are connected through different plazas.

I ECOTOURISM

The project also includes a wilderness park that features a bird sanctuary, a botanical garden, and a research center to be built in the future. There is also a small camping area made up of light structures or wooden tree houses. Eighty percent of the land has been designated for greenery to care for the environment, flora, and birds that exist in that part

of the Jordan River. A sustainable approach is used to protect the wilderness with evergreen plants and vegetative ground cover, as they are droughtresistant.

A bamboo art installation that links the Baptism Development Zone and the Baptism site, where light effects and users can interact with the installation by hearing hymns and sounds

In addition to considering factors such as climate, topography, soil, and water resources, we study the ecosystem and biodiversity of an area. Understanding the local fauna and flora is critical for designing outdoor spaces that not only serve human needs but also benefit the environment and its inhabitants.

For example, in our Baptism Development Zone project, we took into account the local birds’ habitat and incorporated a bird sanctuary into the wilderness park. This sanctuary serves as a refuge for birds and promotes their survival, which is essential for maintaining the area’s ecological balance.

Different species of birds drawn by Prof. Kamel O. Mahadin, FASLA, MK Associates.

Incorporating ecological and biodiversity considerations into landscape architecture design helps promote the conservation of natural resources and sustainability. Landscape architects must work with other professionals, including ecologists and environmentalists, to design outdoor spaces that are beneficial to both humans and the environment.

With climate change and a growing population posing significant environmental challenges, the need for sustainable outdoor spaces is increasingly important. The proposed Baptism Development Zone project is an excellent example of how landscape architecture can be used to create a world-class destination for religious tourism while preserving the natural beauty of the area and promoting sustainable development. The project’s vision and approach focus on the protection and restoration of the natural environment, the conservation of the wilderness, and the preservation of cultural heritage. It also aims to create a must-visit recreational destination that provides innovative opportunities for visitors to engage with the wilderness, including education and research centers, ecotourism activities, and economic contributions to the park. Overall, landscape architecture is a critical field that can contribute significantly to building a more sustainable future for all.

A 3D rendering for the proposed Pilgrimage Village in the Baptism development Zone: Bethany Beyond the Jordan. (MK Associates in collaboration with Mostaqbal Engineering and Environmental Consultants and Design Workshop).

A bamboo art installation that links the Baptism Development Zone and the Baptism site, where light effects and users can interact with the installation by hearing hymns and sounds

Different species of birds drawn by Prof. Kamel O. Mahadin, FASLA, MK Associates.

An Archipelago of Venues in Thessaloniki’s ConfEx Park

An Urban Park between Mountain and Sea

By: Gustafson Porter + Bowman

Located between the mountains and the sea in northern Greece, the city of Thessaloniki is layered with memories of its past. Yet, its current reputation as Greece’s largest and most influential northern city and its ambition to be the Balkan region’s major business and tourist destination hub, is what’s putting it on the map today. Built in the heart of Thessaloniki, the new ConfEx Park is an emblem of the city’s present and future ambitions. Its strategic location was a driving force behind its redevelopment, which incorporates its past traditions, memories, and reputation for hospitality. Gustafson Porter + Bowman’s landscape design for the park respects its rich heritage in contemporary form, making it an important destination for all who live in and visit the city.

Gustafson Porter + Bowman

Artefactory

Gustafson Porter + Bowman

Thessaloniki is a city full of excavated sites, historic buildings and monuments that provide orientation for visitors, as well as an oasis of calm for its residents, in what is a densely built urban environment. Beyond being a tourist destination, ConfEx Park introduces a new route within the city. The Culture Path connects the city’s east and west sides, its major monuments and museums, the new metro station at Egnatia and the landscaped spaces to the new ConfEx Exhibition buildings.

The landscape naturally splits into three parts: the western area between Aggelaki and the central axis, which becomes a space for play and temporary installations; the central area that fans out from the YMCA Square and the Contemporary Art Gallery that becomes the location for small scale cultural gardens, and garden cafes arranged around the existing curved canopy; and the south area adjacent to Leoforus Stratou that addresses the new Conference Centre, will become a large amphitheatre for performances and events. The park’s three landscaped areas provide habitats for a diverse range of native trees and plants specific to the Thessaloniki region; all of which are capable of resisting climate change and the ever-increasing extremes of temperature, storms, and drought. The greater the diversity of plants, the greater the range of wildlife they will support, and the more resilient the plant and wildlife populations will become. This increase in biodiversity will create a natural ecosystem within Thessaloniki, helping to support a healthy environment for its citizens.

Ponnie

Artefactory

Artefactory

Abrahamic Family House

Overview

Comprising

three religious spaces in one location, Abrahamic Family House is a first of its kind design space in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island.

Located in Saadiyat Island’s cultural district, Abrahamic Family House is a collection of three religious spaces: a mosque, a church, and a synagogue— all of which will sit upon a fourth secular space consisting of a Forum and raised garden. Designed by Adjaye Associates, the unique space will serve as a community for interfaith dialogue and exchange, nurturing the values of peaceful co-existence and acceptance among different beliefs, nationalities, and cultures. Within each of the houses of worship, visitors can observe religious services, listen to holy scripture, and experience sacred rituals.

Overview

Welcome Center View

Overview

Credit: Dror Baldinger

View of the pedestrian path alongside the Abrahamic Family House toward the visitor’s entrance.

Credit Adjaye Associates

The Abrahamic Family House complex, viewed from the north.

Credit Dror Baldinger

The Abrahamic Family House is an interfaith complex featuring three houses of worship—the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque (center), St. Francis Church (back left), and Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue (right)—each paired with an engraved triangular totem; viewed from across Jacques Chirac Street.

Credit: Dror Baldinger

View of the main entrance to the Forum and the Abrahamic Family House complex, with St. Francis Church and its emblematic totem in the background.

Mosque

Credit Dror Baldinger

The form is translated from the three faiths, carefully using the lens to define what is similar, as opposed to what is different. Through the power of these revelations, the design emerges as powerful plutonic forms with a clear geometry: three cubes sitting on a plinth. The narrative of each religion unfolds through various scales—from structure to detail—and emerges through the elements of creation—water and light. Each chamber sits within a courtyard with triangular water features designed to cool the body. Upon entering each house of worship, light bathes visitors while hot air is pulled from the perimeter towards the adorned ceilings, tempering the interior. Wrapped in an offwhite concrete that deflects the heat of the sun and references the sand and mountains of the Emirates, each form is oriented towards religious references whilst sitting within a unifying garden.

The Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque is oriented towards Mecca. Light filters through the delicate GRP latticework of the mashrabiya screens, which circulate air while maintaining privacy. Four seamless, monolithic columns represent the Islamic

Mosque

Credit

Mosque

Credit: Dror Baldinger

screen that wraps the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque’s exterior.

Mosque

Credit Dror Baldinger

Within the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque, four monolithic columns create nine seamless, monumental vaults.

Mosque

Credit: Arwa Alhati

At the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque, light filters into interiors through the structure’s archways and mashrabiya walls, which are modern translations of traditional Islamic architectural forms.

notions of stability, order, and fullness and create a vaulting space that orients the visitors towards the mihrab. The only fully opaque wall billows to make room for the simplistic stone mihrab, which is bathed in the patterned light from the screens.

Mosque

Credit Dror Baldinger

Light filters through mashrabiya screens onto seamless colonnades in the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque and illuminates the mihrab.

Mosque

Credit Arwa Alhati

The façade of Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque features seven elongated arches on each side and mashrabiya walls of delicate latticework.

Dror Baldinger

A triangular water feature cools the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque’s courtyard while curating a path to the ablution.

The Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque is distinguished by its elongated arches, as viewed from the Abrahamic Family House’s raised garden.

The mihrab rests against a concave wall within an arch, illuminated by the sunlight filtering through the mashrabiya

I LEARNING CENTRE

Along two corners of the courtyard are spaces for ablution, screened by bronze gates that formally echo the seven arches that break up each façade of the exterior form. Mediating between the elements and privacy, an inverted dome and pyramid ceiling within a square form signifies the female and male ablution.

St. Francis Church is oriented towards the rising sun in the East, along with a forest of columns that composes the form to allow light to enter from the exterior. From the courtyard, two uneven columns suspend above the entrance symbolizing the testing of faith. A warm wooden portal guides you into the congregation space where Adjaye Associates designed oak pews face towards the altar. Inspired by the altar of St Peter’s Basilica, a canopy of linear timber elements cascades down from the ceiling in a “shower of ecstatic redemption.” Marble altar, ambo, and tabernacle, as well as an oak credence table and three chairs sit on the sanctuary below the crucifix—a humanoid form with no indication of race or creed.

A baptistry is located beside the church, denoted by a conical form that emerges above the courtyard walls with scattered small windows of light emitting for the interior. Inside, an octagonal room houses a baptismal font, which emerges from the ground in a rough-cut marble form.

Church

Credit Dror Baldinger

Within the baptistry of St. Francis Church, a baptismal font is centered below a faceted conical ceiling with small apertures to the cosmos.

Church

Credit Dror Baldinger

Entry to the baptistry and church’s ancillary spaces, viewed from the courtyard, with St. Francis Church to the right and its emblematic totem centered

Church

Credit Dror Baldinger

Suspended above the congregation in St. Francis Church is a ceiling of timber battens that glow as sunlight enters the space.

Church

Credit Arwa Alhati

The forest of towering columns that define St. Francis Church’s architectural expression stems from the ideas of rays of light and verticality.

Church

Credit Dror Baldinger

St. Francis Church features a forest of staggered vertical colonnades, as viewed from the exterior of the Abrahamic Family House complex from the north.

The Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue is oriented towards Jerusalem. A series of three V-shaped columns amass to create a screen between the interior and exterior, referencing the overlapping layers of palm fronds on the sukkah—a structure used during Sukkot, the Jewish festival of shelter. A bronze mesh tent—symbolizing the original tabernacle— cascades from a skylight in the ceiling and drapes over the congregation. A stone wall envelopes the base, from which the ark emerges and, along with

Adjaye Associates designed oak seating featuring the V-shaped motif, face towards the bimah.

The mikveh is located adjacent to the entrance and composed of limestone walls. A skylight punctures through a textured, monolithic ceiling, allowing light from above to enter the intimate space of the mikveh. The fourth space—not affiliated with any specific religion—will serve as a Forum for all people to come together with the collective ambition to convene spatially, through courtyards, a

Synagogue

Credit Dror Baldinger

Synagogue

Credit Dror Baldinger

The

Synagogue

Credit Dror Baldinger

The courtyard of Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue features triangular areas of landscaping and discreet entrance to the mikveh.

Within the Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue, a bronze mesh tent drapes from the ceiling’s central skylight, which allows mid-day sun and a view to the cosmos.

Synagogue

Credit Dror Baldinger

Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue, viewed from the raised garden, features layered V-shaped columns that represent the overlapping palm fronds on the sukkah—a structure used during Sukkot, the Jewish festival of shelter.

vestibule of Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue includes niches and built-in sinks for ritual handwashing (natilat yadayim) prior to entering the sanctuary

I LEARNING CENTRE

central entrance, a library, and exhibition space, and interpersonally, through community educational and event-based programming. With access to each chamber’s courtyard, it is a place of convergence, rather than divergence. A destination in itself, the raised garden creates a viewing platform to take in all three religious structures, promoting a sense of harmony and interconnectivity whilst asserting their individualism. Framed by date palms to symbolize entrances and punctuated by planters with regional vegetation and water features for cooling, the garden becomes a climate moderated space of collective respite. Profound or mundane moments are cultivated throughout, encouraging the celebration of collective history and collective identity at all scales.

Forum & Garden

Plinth: The single-story plinth references the mound as a sacred archetype that moves us closer to higher things. This common, shared space encourages dialogue between members of the three Abrahamic faiths.

Forum: At the center of the plinth sits the Forum, a shared secular space for gatherings and educational programming, including a library and exhibitions.

Garden: The garden, located atop the plinth, connects the three houses of worship and serves as an outdoor multipurpose space for events, festivals, and community programs.

Circulation: Elevators, stairs, and ramps offer accessible navigation between the Forum, the elevated garden, and each individual house of worship.

Steps to upper garden

Credit Adjaye Associates.

A central staircase creates vertical connection between the ground-floor Forum and raised garden, with intermittent planters and water features

Welcome Center View

Credit: Adjaye Associates

The main entrance to the Forum, from the north, sits beneath the raised garden, accessible by a staircase to the right. the Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue peeks above the Forum.

Synagogue

Credit Dror Baldinger

Three layers of concrete V-shaped columns surround the perimeter of the Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue symbolizing the overlapping palm fronds on the sukkah.

Steps to Garden

Sustainability Highlights

• Estidama 2 Pearl Rating is anticipated.

• Passive cooling strategies used include high thermal massing, orientation according to solar path movements, and integration of native landscaping and water features.

• The colonnades and mashrabiya were designed according to thermal modeling studies to balance solar shading, illumination, and heat gain.

• Courtyards draw light into interior spaced and provide airflow.

• Water features located in courtyards are designed to keep the courtyards cool. The buildings colonnades were designed to funnel air into the courtyards, which in turn is cooled by the water features and evaporative cooling, creating a temperature difference of up to 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit) from the plinth.

• Trees and vegetation are local or regional, chosen for their ability to provide shade and survive in the hot climate with low water demand for irrigation.

• All fixtures are low energy (lights etc.).

• All lighting is set to vary on a timer during the evening to avoid light pollution.

Landscaping & Vegetation

• The Abrahamic Family House features a total of 430 trees and other desert vegetation that are locally sourced, native to the region, provide shade, and have collectively low irrigation demand to mitigate water consumption as much as possible.

• Each house of worship is represented by a different type of citrus tree in its courtyard. Within the elevated garden, each house of worship is also represented by a symbolic ghaf tree the national tree of the UAE. Date palm trees are also used to symbolise entrances both externally from the street to the Abrahamic Family House, and from the Forum into the courtyard of each house of worship.

• The garden features acacia trees, which are commonly found across the UAE, shade large areas and have high drought tolerance. Within the Forum, an olive tree that is over one hundred years old is framed within a prominent courtyard, symbolising peace.

Materials

•Materials used include concrete, Omani limestone, textured plaster, bronze detailing, and timber battens.

•Most materials were locally sourced and selected for sustainability, durability, and longevity.

•26,000 square meters (280,000 square feet) of limestone were used in the construction.

•Seating within the church and synagogue were constructed in naturally hard-wearing oak for the materials durable properties as well as its religious symbolism.

Garden Ccredit Adjaye Associates

On the plinth level, the gardens features trees and other desert vegetation that are locally sourced and native to the region.

Garden View with waterfall next to Mosque

Credit Arwa Alhati

The Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque viewed from a water feature within the garden

Garden

Credit Adjaye Associates

On the plinth level, the gardens features trees and other desert vegetation that are locally sourced and native to the region.

Credit Adjaye Associates

At dusk, an illuminated central staircase transitions from the complex’s onestory plinth to the Abrahamic Family House’s raised garden, with Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue in the background.

Garden

Credit Adjaye Associates

The Abrahamic Family House’s communal gardens is defined by planters, water features, and bench seating.

pARC was designed by The Urban Conga to serve as an open-ended programmable space for the community of Chapel Hill and the Ackland Art Museum located at the University of North Carolina. The Urban Conga studio designed the spatial intervention through a series of participatory design workshops with community stakeholders and museum representatives. The feedback and input of the community and museum representatives lead to the final design of the space and input on future public programming. The Ackland Art Museum is a free museum in Chapel Hill that hosts a surplus of diverse programming within its doors, but it seemed many community members were unaware of the museum and what it had to offer. pARC was designed to sit on the open terrace of the museum to serve as a bridge to connect the museum to the street. Serving as a programmable extension to the conversations, events, teachings, and programming that currently exists within the doors of the Ackland.

How to make every city playable

By: Urban Conga

pARC is an Art museum terrace transformed into a communal public space for play at the University of North Carolina

The design shows how play can be utilized as a tool in the democratization of art institutions by taking art off the pedestal and allowing people to take ownership of the work and space. It invites people up off the street and into the museum that might have once never felt comfortable entering the space. The installation becomes a transformative communal platform for all users to engage with the museum, university, and each other in new ways.

The design of pARC both mimics and contrasts the Georgian-style architecture of the museum. The design takes this symmetrical colonial composition and breaks it into a series of interconnected arcs. These series of arcs appear to grow up from the ground to frame out various social spaces that allow the users to put their own identity onto the work, the museum, and the surrounding space. pARC becomes a flexible communal space

evoking endless ways to play, gather, perform, teach, converse, or even take a nap. The spatial gesture takes on its user’s identity and utilizes its playable design to break down social barriers and spark communal connection within the space. The color of the work was designed in coordination with the rebranding of the Ackland to help draw people into the museum and serve as a connector to their new brand and mission. The work utilizes universal design standards to make it an inclusive space that anyone can use. Underneath the grass sits a sustainable mesh that allows for wheelchair accessibility within the space while still allowing the grass to grow up through it.

Each archway serves as a framed or reflective view of the surrounding context that allows the user to look at the area through a different lens. As one passes the work, they begin to realize their movement changes the colors of the panels

sparking different filtered views of the context around them. The installation not only responds to the user but also the environment by reflecting and refracting the surrounding context through its dichroic lenses while also casting shadows

onto the ground and the panels themselves. The work utilizes light both during the day and at night as a tool to evoke play and wonder into the space. During the day, the user can interact with the sun to cast shadows onto the panels or shift the colors reflected within the space. This interaction sparks a connection between the person and the sun and shows how their actions begin to create a reaction within the space. At night this same effect is created through the use of red, green, and blue lights that allow the user to color mix with their shadows on the panels. The shadow play on the work becomes another way that the user can begin to play with the work, space, and others.

pARC becomes a transformative landmark for all types of play, from physical to fantasy play, highlighting how play can be utilized as a critical tool in evoking more inclusive and equitable communal spaces.

Technical sheet

Client: Ackland Art Museum and University of North Carolina

Year: 2022

Location: Chapel Hill, NC – USA

Project Size: 864 sq ft

Designers: The Urban Conga

Fabrication: The Urban Conga

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