December 2018

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middle east

DECEMBER 2018

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Editor’s Note As we publish the last issue of 2018, I can’t help but reflect and concede that I’m a little anxious about the year ahead, not for me personally, but for the entire human family. There isn’t a day that goes by that we don’t hear about the effects of Global Warming and we don’t have to look too far to realise that the summers are getting hotter and flooding is becoming a major issue for countries like India, Italy and Greece to name a few.

However, when I read stories that our team submit about the plans for a new Argo Park in Florence (Page 26), it brings a sigh of relief and I know that all will be well if we continue to plan and most importantly build for the future with communities and the environment at the forefront. Landscape ME will continue in 2019 to publish interviews with the leaders in sustainable living and feature projects that are contributing positively to our earth.

In this issue we feature a social housing project that is reshaping the urban outskirts of the Mexican city Toluca de Lerdo (Page 44) as well as a new green urban park on the famous Las Vegas Strip!

We also have an interview with local company Olympic Swimming Pools on (Page 16). We also feature Nature a catalyst for wellbeing in urban settlement, see the full stories on page 30, and much more inside!

Enjoy the issue!

John Hampton

Managing Partner: Ziad Maarouf Amine Copy Editor: John Hampton Sales Manager: Boushra Dinnawi Administrative Assistance: Sarry Gan Art Director: Ramon Andaya Contributors: Savina Romanos, Natasha Tourish, Giulia Milza, Romit Chakravarty, Abeer Manneh, Enrico Miggiano Printed by: Al Nisr Publishing LLC Webmaster: www.pdinventive.com

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The 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.

MEMedia Publishing FZ LLC IMPZ PO Box 485005, Dubai, UAE Telephone: +971 4 4470927 Fax: +971 4 4470928

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contents

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December 2018 - Issue 138

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Interview with Lavlesh Raut MD, Olympic Swimming Pools

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Shifting sands-an indoor plantscape

30 38 46

Smart Village 2.0

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Nature a catalyst for wellbeing in urban environments Vegas strip finally gets a park Reshaping mexico’s public space

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I news & events

Mamzar Smart Park – Dawood Al Hajiri, Director General of Dubai Municipality uses smart bench for charging his phone, the smart band, smart paint, smart container, smart rescue drone, virtual reality show

Dubai Municipality redevelops Mamzar Park to become world’s first smart park Project nominated for Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart Government Program Dubai Municipality has completed the development of Mamzar Park to become the first of its kind smart park in terms of applying a range of innovative services according to the highest standards of technology development, which contributed in getting nominated to win the “Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart Government Program” for 2018.

The move is in line with the continuous efforts of Dubai Municipality to promote innovation in its projects, and in reaffirmation of its keenness to participate in the development of Dubai in the field of smart services and its constant interest to delight the visitors to its entertainment destinations.

Dawood Al Hajiri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, who inaugurated the Mamzar Smart Park, stressed that the development of the park is in line with the guidance and aspirations of the wise leadership on technical and smart development.

“The Municipality is committed to implement innovation standards in its projects and always places the public at the highest priority. The infrastructure in Dubai is witnessing comprehensive development in various fields and it is necessary to keep abreast of the technological development achieved by the world by combining efforts and adopting innovations that will support strategies to provide the highest quality standards in the services provided to the public to ensure their happiness and comfort,” said Al Hajiri.

Innovative services in the park include the use of “Smart Scanning” technology to analyze large data and create a park database to extract and utilize vital indicators, such as plant

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classification and detection of tree diseases through aerial imagery analysis, park maps, thermal maps and carbon emission ratios.

The “Smart Band” is a service to provide a smart watch that allows park visitors to track the movements of their children and the People of Determination through the screen of their smart phone, as well as enable them to communicate with them and talk to them when needed, which ensures a pleasant experience with peace of mind and security.

There are “Smart Facilities” using Artificial Intelligence in the development of the park facilities according to the highest standards, by providing elements such as the solar powered “Smart Benches” that enable visitors to charge their electronic devices, in addition to “Smart Containers” and other facilities.

The “Virtual Reality World” service offers the feature of VR environment on the entertainment and educational tracks. It is possible to experiment with the simulation of planting vegetables and fruit trees by answering several questions in an interesting and enjoyable way, which contributes to the promotion of agricultural culture among visitors, especially children and school students.

In order to provide a comfortable and qualified environment for the People of Determination of the Emirate, a comprehensive plan has been devised to ensure that the park conforms to the Dubai

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Environment Code, so that the park design is 100% qualified to meet the requirements of the People of Determination. It is in line with the Government’s vision to transform Dubai into a friendly city for the People of Determination by launching sustainable initiatives and projects aimed at providing an environment suitable for this important section of the community.

Another feature is “Smart Paint for Theatre” by using smart coating that contributes to the purification of air surrounding the theater through a new technology used for the first time in Dubai parks, as well as the exploitation of horizontal cement areas to form wonderful art works with the involvement of artists and drawing hobbyists.

In addition, there is a “Smart Oasis,” which is a shaded area with a solar powered system that converts humid air into potable fresh water, where visitors can rejuvenate themselves by drinking water as it is environmentally friendly. Every day 90 liters of drinking water is produced. The Oasis also provides a charging area for smartphones and a cooling system by means of spray technology. It is worth noting that the oasis is characterized by vertical agriculture, which is irrigated with moisture after the water is purified.

The chalets of the park has been re-furbished and developed adding new services designed to delight the visitors and ensure their comfort during their stay, as the rental of chalets is one of the best services of Mamzar Park, which has special areas for barbecue and bathing. There are 15 chalets in the park, five big and 10 small. The large chalets are 55 square meters in size that can accommodate up to 12 people and the small chalets are 48 square meters, and the requirements of the People of Determination have been taken care in their designs.

Parking spaces have been provided near the chalet area for each tenant. These chalets can be rented from the park management or by booking through the website or through the Mamzar Park App for one day from 9am to 9pm.

In addition to that there is a “Smart Rescue” service, using drones fully operational with the necessary equipment to save people drowning in the sea. They fly down to the place of the drowning and throw rescue equipment and do voice communication with the drowning people to guide them on what to do until the arrival of rescuers and take them out safety.

The project of “re-engineering of agricultural maintenance” aims to reduce the cost of agricultural maintenance in the park by introducing new plant varieties and beautifying elements commensurate with the nature of the beach park, as well as the use of smart and sophisticated irrigation systems to contribute to the achievement of positive results in the areas of sustainability and create a social and healthy destination in the Emirate. About 10,000 square meters of trees were removed and replaced them by 20,000 square meters of green areas, shade trees such as Roula, Ponsiana and flowers. The water is provided by installing the new irrigation system, which is was utilized for the additional 10,000 meters of irrigation. It is worth mentioning that the space was utilized by the establishment of 26 new promenades and five play areas.

In addition, a “Smart Park App” has been launched, which explains all park services. It can be used for membership registration for the park and the pool, in addition to the possibility of booking chalets and water chairs for the People of Determination and the volunteer service to the community as well as registration to participate in sports activities, ensuring that visitors can easily book their services.

The park promotes the role of Dubai Municipality in providing leisure destinations in the city, which aims to delight the public for spending the happy and fun times and enjoy a range of services in accordance with the highest international standards. Since the beginning of the year, the park has witnessed tremendous response from the visitors as 1,335,94 people have visited the park until the 31st of October, while the number of chalet reservations were about 2,643 during the same period.

Dubai Municipality invited the public to vote for the Smart Mamzar Park to enhance its chances of winning the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart Government Program through the Vote.dtmc. gov.ae website, supporting the Municipality’s efforts to transform the emirate’s parks into entertainment destinations full of smart initiatives and services.

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I news & events

· Developer plans to add projects across Dubai · Villas will provide “the ultimate in seclusion and luxury,” says developer

Forum group to hand over ultra-luxury villas in January 2019 Forum Group, the company behind the Mediterranean-style XXII Carat villas project, has announced that it will start welcoming its first residents in January 2019.

The ultra-luxury development, located on the Palm Jumeirah’s West Crescent, is a private beachfront gated community comprising 22 seven-bedroom villas ranging from 8,000 to 13,000 square feet. Featuring a selection of three distinctive styles – Emerald, Ruby and Sapphire – the villas offer residents a hotel-inspired lifestyle with space and seclusion, 24/7 concierge, large gardens and exclusive access to private beaches.

Launched in August 2015, the villas are currently on sale for between AED38m and AED 92m and the developer is in discussions to add projects across the city.

Anton Yachmenev, Managing Director of Forum Group, said: “Well-heeled buyers are on the lookout for modern and expertly appointed villas and we wanted to give them just that.

We have a simple mission at Forum Group, which is driven by the belief that luxury is about more than just the address.

“There has been an unparalleled growth of significant personal wealth in recent years. We were keen to capitalise on this trend by offering developments that take luxury living to the next level.”

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The villas are furnished with high-end furnishings and fittings imported from France and Italy from brands such as La Cornue, La Cuisine Française, Devon&Devon and Miele. The standout features of the villas are the $1 million bathtubs, which have been carved from single pieces of Amazonian crystal by highend Italian interiors specialists, Baldi. Weighing in at more than 10,000kg each, the raw crystals were shipped from Brazil to the Italy, where they were then hand-carved before arriving in Dubai.

Yachmenev said there had been an uptick in people buying high end properties in Dubai, which he believes is because of changes in the standards of luxury living.

He said: “A decade ago, Dubai was not a place to buy a home and settle down. It was transient and short term and wasn’t taken seriously as somewhere you might want to spend the next 20 to 30 years of your life.

“But that has changed, dramatically. There is now a trend of discerning buyers choosing a permanent home in Dubai.

“With an ever growing luxury real estate market, housing options in Dubai seem endless. New developments and projects are appearing virtually overnight, which dilutes the market. For this reason, more and more ultra-prime buyers are opting to invest in properties that offer a true sense of luxury, comfort and high quality.

“Buyers are making the important distinction between true luxury and aspirational luxury and that is a huge positive for us.

They want something that stands out from the rest. XXII Carat villas are like no other project in Dubai and they offer some of the biggest gardens and the best views to be enjoyed anywhere in the city.

“Ultimately, XXII Carat promises a luxury lifestyle.”

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I news & events

Gover horticulture L.L.C displayed their Greenwall at urban design and Landscaping Expo Dubai based Gover Horticulture L.L.C, a leader in GREEN WALL and for Horticultural products in the region, recently participated in the Urban Design and Landscaping Expo at Dubai World Trade Center from 26-29 November 2018.

Gover Horticulture L.L.C offers an entire range of products and services for traders and contractors in Landscaping industry. Speaking about the recent Expo, Gover’s Managing Director Mr. Senthil Nathan said, “Quality is in our Thinking, Planning, and Technology, Materials, Execution and results.”

Mr. Senthil explained the technology and protocol of Gover Green wall displayed in Expo developed in UAE. This locally developed technology ensures the outdoor green wall’s best performance all through the seasons.

Gover Garden Centre L.L.C at Al Warsan-Dubai displays Flower Pots, Garden Tools & Accessories and Chemicals, Fertilizers and Plants and trees required for interior and exterior landscaping They are distributing many leading Brands includes Lechuza and Hobby Flower and AIFA tools & Gover Brand Planters, wide range of horticultural products across gulf region.

Fluidra signs Aquatron’s divestiture agreement with BWT Business to continue as usual for Fluidra customers after closing Fluidra is pleased to announce it has reached a deal with Austrian firm BWT Aktiengesellschaft to divest its Aquatron unit, a manufacturer specializing in robotic pool cleaners. The divestiture comes as part of the European Commission approval of the merger between Fluidra and Zodiac, which took place on the 2nd of July this year, and is subject to the necessary regulatory approvals. Closing is expected to happen within the next few months.

Fluidra will keep on distributing robotic pool cleaners manufactured by Aquatron through its existing AstralPool®, CTX Professional® and Gre® brands, as part of its strong global presence across the automatic pool cleaning category, which includes pressure,

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suction and robotic pool cleaners.

Fluidra appreciates having found a new professional environment for Aquatron within the BWT group to continue Aquatron´s successful journey, for the benefit of its customers and other stakeholders.

Fluidra is a multinational, Spanish-listed company focused on developing innovative products, services and IoT solutions for the residential and commerical pool markets, globally. The company operates in over 45 countries and owns a portfolio of some of the industry’s most recognized and trusted brands, including Jandy®, AstralPool®, Polaris®, Cepex®, Zodiac®, CTX Professional® and Gre®. To learn more about Fluidra, visit fluidra.com

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I news & events

Myplant & Garden 2019 A great combination of innovative passion and proud tradition where technology, design, floristry, decoration, runways, signature installations and new products enliven the dialogue between nature, innovation, creativity, design and beauty. In search of ideas, new solutions and markets.

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The fifth edition of Myplant & Garden will be an authentic festival of plants, flowers and landscape. 45,000 sqm in the halls of Fiera Milano -Rho will transform into a huge greenhouse in which urban forests, colourful lawns, flower-fashion runways and advanced robotics placed within green-living ambiances and new design projects will host visitors from all over the world Myplant is ready to gather and relaunch the best horticultural tradition of the Belpaese, thanks to its leading role as the reference trade fair for the industry in the Mediterranean. It also attracts the big international names of the sector by welcoming them in a prestigious exhibiting arena.

The best production, the most important brands, the protagonists of the industry and of the ‘green ‘ culture will meet once again after a continuous dialogue endured over 362 days, in

order to satisfy the need to shake hands, attend events and seminars, activate new synergies. Participating in My plant means touching the most beautiful plants in the world, seeing centenarian olive trees, huge bonsais and the latest hybridisations, visiting multi-scale vegetable gardens, talking with the big experts of nature , gathering the latest innovations in the industry, discovering the most recent technical, technological and aesthetic innovations, walking side by side to rivers of flowers, shrubs and monumental cacti, tasting the most ancient fruits and admiring thousands of vases. Being part of Myplant means to understand the most advanced services, to spot latest-generation machinery, to converse with experts in design and building techniques, to deepen the knowledge on the professions linked to the green industry.

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I news & events

The project Never before seen effects More than 2,000 jets Just four months of installation Funded by „Apa Nova Bucuresti“ The show In the heart of Bucharest Close tot he metro „Piata Unirii“ Show duration over one hour At least two shows per weekend

Unique fountains in the heart of Bucharest reopen on Unirii Square By: OASE With an incredible total length of 1.4 kilometers and over 2,000 water jets, the fountains project by OASE at Unirii Square in Bucharest was finished and reopened to the public at the end of September, at the first weekend it has attracted over 100,000 visitors. Measuring 12,000 square metres, the fountain system is one of the biggest in the world. Just to give an idea of the size to those who haven’t seen the show live: the water in the installation at Unirii Square fills a total of 13 pools.

No wonder the multimedia opening show featuring the elements water, fire, earth and air fascinated everyone who came to see it. One of the many water-jet innovations was the fountain flame effect, which combines the two elements water and fire in one feature. This extraordinary and rarely seen effect involves a ball of fire burning on top of a water jet that moves up and down. How it works? The water fountain contains a small bulb of gas that shoots flames up the water jet, resulting in a fireball at the top.

Introduced to Europe for the first time, it is not only the fountain effects themselves that are unique. By displaying the show on four giant water screens, OASE has turned the whole installation into an unforgettable multimedia experience for audiences. In time to music, the video and laser projections on the water screens produce a three-dimensional effect. OASE is a global specialist in creating multimedia fountain shows and

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was therefore the perfect choice to create this special show in the heart of Bucharest.

Apart from designing multimedia shows, OASE is the only company that produces, installs and programs all oft he necessary products for fountain systems, including the actual fountains, pumps and light effects. Furthermore, OASE is the biggest company in the field of fountain technology worldwide.

Some of OASE’s water installations, like the Fountain of Wealth in Singapore, have found their place among CNN’s fifteen most spectacular fountains and water installations in the world. This list also includes the Multimedia Fountain Park in Warsaw, which attracts at least a million visitors per season.

As a recognised brand manufacturer with a portfolio consisting entirely of high-end products, OASE stands for long life and maximum reliability as well as ease of maintenance, support and service. This special project in Bucharest was implemented by over twenty senior experts, including project managers, engineers and designers from OASE, and was completed in less than four months. Within these four months OASE took on the challenge and successfully revamped the existing pools and the complete fountain technology.

The project was funded by Apa Nova Bucuresti, the concessionaire of the municipal water supply and sewerage services in Bucharest. There are at least two shows a week on Saturdays and/or Sundays.

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Fountains project at

UNIRII SQUARE BUCHAREST: 13 pools

Over 3.000 controllable products by OASE

Only four months of modernization

12.000 m2

Almost 12.000 square meters surface

1,4 km length from one end to the other

In the heart of the city

Over 100,000 visitors during the first weekend

Duration of the show: 1 hour 13

I news & events SPECNEWS

November/December 2018 Irrigation News and Product Updates for Irrigation and Landscape Designers

Irrigation Design Tip: Eight-step Process Starts with Obtaining Site Information

Irrigation Design Tip: Eight-step Process Starts with Obtaining Site Information You can follow this eight-step process to ensure a complete and proper irrigation system design.

Following every step of this process reduces the chances of overlooking important factors.

The steps are: 1. Obtaining site information 2. Determining the irrigation requirement

3. Determining waterthis and power supply You can follow eight-step sprinklers and other equipment 4.

Selecting process to ensure a complete and 5. Lateral layout (or “circuiting” sprinklers), locating proper irrigation system design. valves and main lines Following every thiscalculating processtotal 6. Sizing pipe and step valves ofand reduces the chances of overlooking system pressure loss 7. Locating controllers important factors.and sizing wire 8. Preparing the final irrigation plan

check to see if a plan already exists. If the site being designed falls within a city boundary, there may be a site plan or survey on record at the city or county planning/zoning department. Even if the plan does

The steps are: In this irrigation design tip, we’ll review all of the site 1. Obtaining site information information you need to obtain and document to 2. Determining the irrigation requirement create an accurate irrigation plan and ultimately, an not have all the details necessary, it could provide a 3. Determining water and power supply efficient irrigation system. When your site plan is solid base to start the site plan. Newer homes may 4. Selecting sprinklers and other equipment completed it should represent an accurate picture of even have a computer-generated drawing available.

5. Lateral layout (or “circuiting” sprinklers), locating the site with all known conditions noted. This Almost all large sites have some sort of existing site valves and main lines information is necessary to begin the irrigation plan. plans, especially since there are so many trades 6. Sizing pipe and valves and calculating total system pressure loss involved in the site design process.

Utilities 7.

Locating controllers and sizing wire It is best to minimize the crossing of utilities with the Creating a site plan 8.

Preparing the final irrigation irrigation system piping plan and, further, to avoid If an existing drawing cannot be obtained, a scaled locating any equipment on top of utilities. BeforeDoes an existing site plan exist? drawing on graph paper is a good alternative for In this irrigation design tip, we’ll review all of the site beginning any site plan development, be sure toA site plan is a scaled drawing of the areas that are When this Before cannot be done information you need to obtain and document to create impactedsmall by thesites. irrigation system. going throughat the site, a check with the local utility companies for the location drawing with all the appropriate an accurate irrigation plan and ultimately, an efficient the effort of creating a site plan yourself, check to measurements see of any buried lines on the site. A little pre-planning made sosite a scaled drawing falls can be created. irrigation system. When your site plan is completed it if a plan should already be exists.

If the being designed can prevent costly problems in the field! convenient should selected should represent an accurate picture of the site with all within a Acity boundary, scale there may be be a site plan orthat best fits known conditions noted.

This information is necessary to survey on record at the city or county planning/zoning the area onto a plan with good readable details. A Does an existing site plan exist? begin the irrigation plan.

Even if thesite plan does fit notwell haveon allathe details residential might plan with a scale of A site plan is a scaled drawing of the areas that aredepartment. necessary, itincould provide a solid base to start the site m) wide lot 1 = 10 ft (1 cm = 1 m).

A 100 ft (30 impacted by the irrigation system. Before going plan. Newer homes maybe even a computer-generated Utilities would only 10have in (30 cm) wide on the drawing. through the effort of creating a site plan yourself, drawing available.

Almost all large sites have some sort It is best to minimize the crossing of utilities with the of existing site plans, especially since there are so many irrigation system piping and, further, to avoid trades involved in the site design process. locating any equipment on top of utilities. Before beginning any site plan development, be sure to check with the local utility companies for the location of any Creating a site plan buried lines on the site. A little pre-planning can prevent If an existing drawing cannot be obtained, a scaled costly problems in the field! drawing on graph paper is a good alternative for small

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sites. When this cannot be done at the site, a drawing with all the appropriate measurements should be made so a scaled drawing can be created. A convenient scale should be selected that best fits the area onto a plan with good readable details. A residential site might fit well on a plan with a scale of 1 in = 10 ft (1 cm = 1 m). A 100 ft (30 m) wide lot would only be 10 in (30 cm) wide on the drawing.

Plantings - Existing Locate all trees and shrubs and pinpoint the plant material on the drawing. Indicate any particularly dense shrubs or hedges or low trees that could hinder sprinkler coverage. Note everything you see that could possibly impact the irrigation system, or be impacted by having water sprayed on it. Take sufficient measurements to ensure accuracy.

manageable plan sizes. 1 in = 20, 30 or 40 ft (1 cm = 6, 10 or 15 m) are all common plan sizes for commercial projects. A 200-acre (81 ha) golf course might be drawn up with a scale of 1 in =100 ft (1 cm = 30 m).

Plantings - New New planting areas and the types of vegetation that these areas will contain should be included on the plan. Indications of the soil type (sandy, clay like or a mixture) and the wind direction are also very helpful. It is particularly important to note site features that will significantly affect how the irrigation system will be designed or managed. Examples are areas of high or constant wind, daily shade, heavy clay soil, or coarse sandy soil.

Hydraulic information The hydraulic data should always be noted. The location of the water source, such as the water meter, as well as the size of the water meter and the size, length and material of the service line should be indicated on the site plan. The static water pressure should be ascertained, preferably by a direct reading with a pressure gauge. When using a gauge, hook it up to a hose bib or garden valve. Turn the valve on to take the pressure reading when no other water outlet on the site is open.

The shape of the area should be drawn on the site plan with all sides and dimensions accurately measured and represented on the drawing. You might need to take additional measurements to assist in drawing any curves and odd angled borders.

Buildings, walkways, driveways, parking Locate all buildings, walkways, driveways, parking areas, light or utility poles, retaining walls, stairways, and any other features of the site. Indicate where there are slopes and in which direction and how steeply the ground slopes. Also make note of areas where water drift or overspray cannot be tolerated, such as windows close to the lawn areas.

Pump information If the water source for the project includes a pump, obtain the model, horsepower and electrical characteristics of the pump. The pump manufacturer will be able to provide the performance curve for the pump. Further, a pressure and flow test of the pump is advisable in case the performance has changed with wear. Should a pond or lake serve as the water source and no pumping plant currently exists, make note of the desired location and source of power for the pump. If electrical power is available, the rating (voltage and amperage) needs to be noted.

Finally, any special considerations of the site, such as watering restrictions should be noted on your plan. In the next irrigation design tip, we’ll review how to determine the irrigation requirements for your project.

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I interview

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Interview with

Lavlesh S. Raut

Managing Director, Olympic Swimming Pools What makes your company unique?

Olympic swimming pools was established to provide qualitative, timely and extensive construction services in the leisure market to our esteemed clients. OSP is professionally managed by qualified persons in the relevant fields emphasizing maximum resource allocation. I can proudly say that, the reason behind consistent growth of the company and remarkable reputation is the combination of our experienced team with best available resources in the market.

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I interview

Despite stiff competition in the market, we are successful because of our careful attention to our client’s demands and consistently meeting deadlines.

When did your company first set up business in the Region?

We started working in UAE since February 2013 and still continuing with the services.

What is the installation process?

There are standard processes involved which are the combination of civil and MEP activities. For instance, excavation, surface preparation, steel works, underground plumbing works, waterproofing, guniting, tiling works, stone works, deck area and equipment Installation. These activities may vary with the type of pool depending on client’s requests.

What are the main challenges of doing business in the current Middle East market?

One of the major challenges working in the Middle East is that it’s an extremely competitive market. Since there is perfect competition available in the context of the variety of products, cost of the product or services, one needs to be alert and updated with trends and client requirements in a timely manner.

Islamic culture needs to be addressed before you set up a business in the UAE. It plays a crucial role in people’s everyday lives, in the office and outside. Islamic customs should be observed and the effects of the Islamic religion on business interactions must be respected when doing business in the UAE.

Can you please highlight your past experience in the GCC region in the past years?

It’s been a great experience working within the GCC region, since the market is a combination of authenticity and modern working style. One has scope to experiment innovative styles which gives a wide platform to reach customer satisfaction.

Do Olympic swimming pool activities/projects reach other international markets?

Presently, we are focusing our development in UAE and GCC region. However, given an opportunity and considering the International market structure we will focus our expansion internationally in the future.

What are some of the major projects that you have been involved with in the past years?

We have successfully completed major projects such as the Lakes in Quarn Park, Palm Park, Warqa Park, 78 villas in Dubai Land. We also did major projects in the Palm Jumeirah namely, Serenia Residences and Murabba Residences. While

Please outline your company’s plans for the future including new products and developments?

We are successfully managing the construction and maintenance of swimming pools, water features and related activities. In future, we have plans to put more focus towards landscaping activities and sports activities.

Please outline your company’s Main Activities & Services?

We are mainly involved in Construction and Maintenance of Swimming Pools along with Jacuzzis, Spa Sauna, Water features/Fountains and Artificial Lakes.

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our major ongoing residential project is at Al warqa named Al badr Phase 1.

Premier Inn hotel (Jadaff) is one of our major finished hotel projects and the W-Hotel and Double Tree Hilton are near completion. We are also doing Dynamic Training Pools which is a pool constructed for training purpose for aviation staff.

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WTB Middle East FZE PO Box 261378, JAFZA, Dubai 102 Regus Bldg, D-Ring, Doha t + 971 4 8860 700 / f + 971 4 8860 701 www.wtburden.ae email: streetfurniture@wtburden.ae

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I Plantscape

Shifting Sands An indoor Plantscape By: Natasha Smith

Landscape architects desert INK in collaboration with sister Desert Group companies share their inspiration behind their installation at Downtown Design 2018 Following their show-stopping landscape creation for the Downtown Design exhibition last year, award-winning landscape architects desert INK returned this year and showed their creativity is limitless with a fresh new design for the interior event plaza. The plaza itself was conceptualised as a respite and relaxation zone surrounded by the frenetic buzz of the main exhibit spaces. Featuring cafĂŠ outlets and free dining

space, desert INK settled upon a concept which fulfilled many different functions at once, as explained by Managing Director, Duncan Denley “with so much activity and noise in the rest of the exhibition, we recognised that our installation must provide a breath of fresh air for visitors, and there are few things better than plants to provide a feeling of calm. Based upon discussions with the event organisers, it was imperative that the plants were

Desert Group Michael Mascarenhas(CEO)

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Plantscapes Saresa Anthonissen (Creative Director)

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I Plantscape

desert INK Duncan Denley (Managing Director)

elevated and monumental; not something that you could pass by without soaking in. Finally, our design was to be an interactive piece, something functional rather than just an attractive object.”

The Middle East’s leading design fair ran over three-days in November and was attended by design professionals from a huge diversity of backgrounds seeking new ideas, inspiration and insight into the design profession.

Following a number of prototype designs, lead designer, Romit Chakravarty struck upon the idea of creating a layered dune structure which rises up from the plaza to elevate planting on different planes. “We worked with House of Timber at Dubai Garden Centre to devise a series of planter boxes with layered ‘skirts’ that would create the flowing form. After some collaborative sessions with the carpenters, both of us exchanging 3D digital models back and forth, we arrived at the final prototype design” adds Chakravarty. The ingenious design created a visually appealing structure which encompassed seating alcoves to rest among the vegetation as well as ample space for the plants themselves. Some initial physical mockups by House of Timber were fabricated from OSB timber and initial structural issues resulting from the protruding ‘skirts’ were resolved. At this point, the design team switched their attention to the planting alongside Plantscapes, Desert Group’s interior

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landscape specialist. Creative Director of Plantscapes and Dubai Garden Centre, Saresa Anthonissen recalls “desert INK approached us with these exciting renderings of sculpted dunes, so we immediately took them to our interior plant storehouses to visualise what planting themes could be explored. desert INK took a keen interest in our cacti and xerophytic interior plants, and the idea that these could be contrasted against the lush green foliage of tropical species that people are more familiar with. We started to see a narrative forming, which related to the greening of the desert that has occurred in the region in the last 30 years. We’re all aware of desert INK’s passion to move towards a more native form of planting in the region, yet we are so aware of people’s affinity for the deep greens and lush foliage that is associated with tropical species. It was at this time that we decided to create not one installation, but two separate ‘dunes’. One would showcase what was possible to achieve with succulents and cacti; a more suitable palette for this region, while the other would be a riot of colours and textures that come with a tropical palette” At this point in the design process, the team re-focussed upon practical matters, such as logistics. “Our experience at last year’s exhibition taught us that we must fabricate and assemble as much of the installation as possible off-site. Access to the event tent was limited and there are many risks involved with transporting and assembling hundreds of plants in a space crawling with other exhibitors” comments Denley. House of Timber at this point came to the rescue with a ‘jigsaw’ approach to the installation. The timber structure was redesigned to allow it to be assembled and disassembled easily by creating a series of more manageable parts. “It was then a question of weight, since moving these parts from their fabrication area at Dubai Garden Centre to the event tent without incurring any damage

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I Plantscape would be a huge undertaking. The team gathered once again and devised a system whereby smaller manageable planter inserts could be dropped into the main timber structure, sitting upon light weight fill material” expands Chakravarty. The planting inserts were then positioned within the main structure for assembly, their position marked and then simply lifted out and transported to the site ready-planted.

Production-mode by this point was in full swing, with the House of Timber Carpenters making great progress with the first planter frame. Securing the planting stock was the next task, with desert INK’s ‘wish-lists’ being cross checked against Plantscapes’ existing stocks. Specimens were tagged and put aside for the exhibition, while a few of the more unusual specimens were brought in especially for the installation. “It was quite amazing actually. Within a week of handing over our planting wish list, Plantscapes had gathered existing stock into a holding area and had trays of new plants brought in for the event. Seeing all the plants clustered together was an exciting moment and we knew that we’d made the right decision with the cacti and succulents” comments Chakravarty. desert INK then mobilised two separate teams to start positioning the plants within the inserts and the composition started to take shape. “There was certainly a competitive element to the plant installation approach, which made things quite exciting. Both teams took ownership of their planting style and gave it their personal touches” adds Denley. It quickly came to light that the xeriscape planter was the tougher of the two to achieve. Since all plants were to be re-used after the event, none of the plants were planted in the ground and remained entirely within their pots. Hiding the pots themselves was easier to achieve among the luxuriant foliage of the tropical planter. In contrast, the xeriscape plants required very careful positioning and a delicate application of gravel and boulders to ensure that the illusion of a planted landscape was not lost.

Upon completion of the planting within the inserts, they were lifted out of the frame and transported to the exhibition site.

Using markings and photo references, a team from Dubai Garden Centre, with support from desert INK began to re-assemble the inserts into the frame in situ. A few last-minute touches and

desert INK Romit Chakravarty (Architect)

additional planting over the joints between inserts took the team late into the night, but with combined efforts the installation was completed.

Desert Group CEO, Michael Mascarenhas summarises “I think this installation is a great example of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts. The result of this collaboration between desert INK, Dubai Garden Centre, House of Timber and Plantscapes is far greater than anything that either entity could produce independently. We drew upon resources and knowledge across the Desert Group and I believe this is our strength. We have an incredibly creative team in desert INK, we also have the industry knowledge to source the plants and the practical skills required to fabricate such unusual structures. It really is a rare thing to find such skills all within one group”

Known for their context-driven, sustainable landscape designs, desert INK are a landscape design consultancy based in the Dubai Design District. With 16 years of experience in the region, Managing Director Duncan Denley leads a creative team backed up by the 30 years’ experience held in the Desert Group and vision of CEO Michael Mascarenhas.

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I eco-sustainability

Smart

Village2.0 By: RRC Studio

Italian architects RRC STUDIO showcase the blueprint for eco-sustainability with SMART VILLAGE 2.0

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Think community gardens where neighbours can share crops and plants, farm to table markets, social housing and shared outdoor living spaces.

RRC studio’s share their vision for urban living within Agro Park, an urban park with residential and commercial settlements in Florence, Italy.

Described as a place to meet, study and hang out, where you can experience a self-sufficient urban environment. “SMART VILLAGE 2.0 is made

by XLAM, carefully designed adopting the most innovative solutions. XLAM construction system is ideal for buildings with significant lights, cantilever volumes, suitable for large buildings,” explained RRC studios.

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I eco-sustainability “The choice of contemporary architectural configuration is integrated with the appeal to tradition through the use of wood coverings that work as shading systems for the apartments. SMART VILLAGE 2.0 is active eco-sustainability, has a strong technological system and home automation control. It’s efficient, comfortable and full of urban vitality.”

“The refinement of the design, the variety of finishes, the attention to detail guarantee quality and harmony with the landscape. As well as low impact on the ecosystem, research, development and energy sustainability. SMART VILLAGE 2.0 and AGROPARK want to build the present for the new future.”

LOCATION: Florence, Italy DATE: 2018 CLIENT: Municipallity of Florence TYPE: Mixed Use, Retail, Hospitality, Residential, Park BUILT-UP AREA: 400.000 sqm IMAGES CREDITS: RRC STUDIO © All rights reserved

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I URBAN CITIES J U ME I R A H

C E N T R A L

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NATURE & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

Nature; a catalyst for wellbeing in urban environments By: Abeer Manneh Associate 5+design If we are to imagine the 3.8 billion years of Earth’s life to date as the 24 hours of a day, we will find that human life only existed in the last 5 minutes of the day. Although our existence on earth is relatively short, we have had a significant impact on the Earth’s ecosystems. As we have grown in population and went on developing a “better lifestyle”, we have approached nature as superiors; our human-centric approach - or in other words consumer-based approach - has led to a significant and rapid change.

Studies indicate that we have passed the point of no return for global warming -basically referring to limiting global warming to 1.5°C. We are now given a new point of no return for limiting global warming to

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MA S T E R P L A N

2°C by 2035. As it seems, the more we aim for a “better lifestyle” the more we have neglected the environment.

According to the Global Footprint Network, we have passed the equilibrium state as we now consume 1.7 times the Earth’s ecological resources.

There are many frameworks and initiatives established globally to mitigate the impact of global warming and to create sustainable developments and happy communities. This article does not intend to review those initiatives; however, it is an attempt to explain a way of designing through the natural world, inspired by nature and in connection to the natural environment so as to establish a basis for a healthy and happy community.

NATUR

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Finland’s residents -the happiest country according to the World Happiness Report 2018 - enjoy more forest area per capita than any other European country.

Image source: online

RE & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

First, we have to acknowledge and establish an understanding of the challenges associated with our human-centric approach of development and specifically the relation between rapid urban growth and wellbeing. Similarly, we need to understand the impact of our exposure to natural elements in the built environment on our wellbeing.

1 In the 2000s, we have crossed the 50% urban vs. rural population mark. Moreover, it is expected that by 2050, 2/3 of the global population will live in urban cities In 2008, only 10% of the Earth’s land area was considered remote -as in accessible beyond 48 hours of travel from a large city.

This rapid urban growth, although comes with many benefits such as job opportunities, housing, infrastructure, services, etc. it also resulted in environmental, social and mental issues. Slums are reported to constitute 40% of the world’s urban expansion according to the United Nations Development Programme (2017). The issue is more prominent in developing countries as a by-product of rapid unplanned urban growth. Natural disasters are also reported at a higher frequency with a correlation to urbanization. UK Aid reported that natural disasters more than doubled between 1980 and 2014. Whereas 92% of the disasters in 2014 were weather-related such as storms, floods, droughts, wildfires, heat and cold waves.

Residents can access public green spaces within 100m from their residence through connected local open spaces, neighbourhood parks and a central park of which different age groups, interests and activities are catered for. Project by 5+ Design 7

NATURE & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

Urbanization and Wellbeing In addition to the environmental and social issues, human health and wellbeing is affected by rapid urbanization. Air, noise and light pollution have a

direct impact on human physical and mental health.

For example, light pollution causes an interruption in the circadian rhythm stimulating the brain for longer hours and hence making it difficult for the

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I URBAN CITIES human brain to restore its natural rhythm. This causes mental disorders of which 99% of Europeans and North Americans are susceptible to since they live in a night sky considered as light-polluted. Moreover, a study in Korea (2017) reported a relation between long exposure to ambient air pollutants -PM10, CO and NO2- and increased rates of stress, depression and suicide ideation.

Recent studies reported alarming statistics especially the impact of urbanization on children’s mental health. Researchers indicate that kids living in urban areas are twice likely to develop schizophrenia than their rural counterparts. A relation between urbanization, stress and depression in adults has also been identified. The researchers explain that the larger the city, the more the dwellers are likely to develop stress, specifically identifying part of the brain being larger and active. Similarly, the longer the years of childhood spent in urban areas the more the adults are to develop depression- where another area of the brain gets enlarged.

Nature – Healing Characteristics Nature, however, presents itself as a restorative solution to many of the mental illnesses caused by rapid urbanization. Scientists explain that children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) respond positively when exposed to nature as it improves their mood, memory and alleviate ADHD. A study suggests that 85% of kids showed reduction in Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) when exposed to

NATURE & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

a green play area. Another study explained that in a play area, a cluster of shrubs was the most popular area for the kids to play as it enhances their imagination and creativity as they have the ability to transform the shrubs into many places of their imagination.

Employees and students also enjoy the healing characteristics of nature. Various studies report improved concentration and performance levels for students and employees when working in an environment with views to greenery. Exposure to nature also benefits senior Alzheimer patients as it reduces their anxiety and frustration. A study explains that a garden designed with features such as looped paths, tree groves, landmarks, seating and plants help those patients.

Designing through the Natural World As urban designers, urban planners, policy makers and developers, we can design and facilitate the transformation of urban cities into restorative cities. As an attempt of establishing basic principles to “design through nature”; the following can be employed; • Connect with Nature: Physically integrate natural elements in the built environment to establish a direct connection i.e. involve the five senses • Inspired by Nature: Indirectly integrate elements of nature such as biomorphic forms and patterns • Learn from Nature: understand and mimic a natural process as a framework to enable achieving a balanced -neutral- state similar to how the ecosystems are interrelated and balanced J U M E I R A H

C E N T R A L

M A S T E R P L A N

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Visual and physical connection to green and blue spaces is essential for promoting a healthy lifestyle. Project by 5+ Design

CONNECTION WITH NATURE Designing through nature is rather an intuitive process. However, scientific research can immensely help in establishing general design guidelines and regulations. This is especially useful for governments developing planning policies to improve the living standards of their citizens.

For example, researches help establish a reference to the proximity and size of open spaces

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and their impact on human wellbeing. In Denmark, a recent study indicated that those living more than 1km away from green spaces reported 42% increased level of stress. Another study in New Zealand found out that for every 100m travel distance decrease from a green open space, a 3% reduction in anxiety / mood disorder treatment is achieved. Whereas for every 1% increase in the green area a reduction of treatment achieved is 4%.

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characterized by calm, peace, unity, and a sense of general happiness and I URBAN CITIES satisfaction with life in the moment.”

Water boosts a chemical called Oxytocin which boosts bond and hence promote a sense of community. Image source: Online

E & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

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In addition to green spaces, blue spaces also create opportunities for residents to restore their health and wellbeing. Blue spaces include water bodies of various scales from oceans, lakes and rivers to small fountains and water features. Water boosts the production of a chemical called Oxytocin which boosts bond between people and hence promote a sense of community.

NATURE & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

A study by the European Center of Environment and Human Health indicated great perceived restorative characteristics of blue and blue/green spaces compared to grey built environment (concrete), Therefore, integration of water features in urban settings can be one of the design elements that mitigate the harsh grey J U ME IR A H C E N T R A L MA S T E R P L A N environment.

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Biomorphic forms, water feature, adaptable plant species are among the strategies employed to create a pleasant urban space. Project by 5+ Design

BEAUTY IN NATURE Apart from the physical and measurable impacts of natural open spaces, there is a factor that is often overlooked, that is beauty in nature! The term biophilic design refers to our connection with nature. A few of the strategies that are recommended -apart of physically introducing nature in the environment- is to mimic its biomorphic forms and patterns and to create a sense of mystery in the design while engaging all five senses. Take forms found in nature as an example, these are of organic basic shapes forming more complex geometrical forms and patterns. We have almost squared everything from a piece of furniture to a housing complex to a masterplan for the sake of standardization and efficiency in production. I have been fascinated by the works of Gaudi such as Park Guell or Casa Mila. Perhaps we can

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learn from Gaudi his sensitivity towards nature and being completely in harmony with the natural context!

“NOTHING IS ART IF IT DOES NOT COME FROM NATURE” ANTONIO GAUDI A NATURAL PROCESS Nature also presents solutions to our challenges. Through understanding and mimicking the processes found in nature, a concept known as biomimicry, we can develop a design or a product that is in harmony with other processes resulting in a state of equilibrium. Recently, scientists were able to produce drinkable water in arid and remote areas by collecting dew from the air. Being inspired by processes in nature such as those found in cactus plants, desert beetles, spider webs, etc, many products were developed to

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I URBAN CITIES capture drinkable water. In the same manner, architects, researchers, biologists, etc. can work together to find solutions in the ever-inspiring nature around.

GREENING HOT AND ARID ENVIRONMENTS In hot and arid climates such as that experienced in the GCC, availability of water is identified as a challenge where it limits the provision of green open spaces.

Various design strategies can be implemented to minimize water consumption yet provide a lively green

environment; grey water recycling, using species that naturally treats the water and green the space, selecting native and adaptive plant species are among those strategies. It is critical, however, to choose where to invest the water budget in. For example, highways and large interchanges should not be high on the priority list to “green”. Residents can benefit from the greenery in accessible open spaces or as tree shade along the walkways. Therefore, the water budget should be oriented towards those spaces first.

Reduction of roads infrastructure creates an opportunity to provide more3 public open space, where water buget can be reallocated from interchanges to accessible public realm. Image: Abeer Manneh

NATURE & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

Water buget allocated for grass within median can be reallocated to provide trees for shading or aceessible green spaces. Image: Abeer Manneh

NATURE & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

Zooming in from large city scale to granular local spaces, we can smartly design the greenery to provide a pleasant usable space while keeping the water consumption to a minimum. We have studied the impact of vegetation on microclimate in the GCC through studying multiple scenarios of a courtyard landscape design. By changing plant species, shading and arrangement, we were able to achieve a reduction of 1.1°C air temperature between the best- and worst-

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4

case scenario. An alternative design using the same grass area and number of trees was able to achieve a reduction of around 28°C of Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT) and provided more uniform shading to the space and its users. This indicates that for the same water budget we are able to improve the usability of the green space and if applied to a large scale can mitigate heat island effect and hence reduce energy consumption.

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NATURE & WELLBEING| DDW’18– 15th of November 2018

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In medium to high urban densities, vertical greenery is a great solution complimenting the public realm. Project by 5+ Design

In conclusion, rethinking our urban cities with a view of integration with nature and learning from nature may lead to resolving many of the current challenges be it environmental, social or health-related. Surely, we have the tools to develop robust planning framework and design and we continue to be inspired by the infinite source of creativity that is present in nature!

“THOSE INSPIRED BY A MODEL OTHER THAN NATURE, LABOR IN VAIN” Leonardo Da Vinci

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I Parks

Vegas Strip finally Photo credit: ŠHanns Joosten

gets a Park

The Las Vegas strip has most things, including a replicate Eiffel Tower and some of the world’s finest hotels, all that was missing was a park By: !melk

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The First Specialised Landscape Magazine in the Middle East

An unprecedented and unique urban infill project in Las Vegas has just been completed.

The notorious Las Vegas Strip, today, is the most visited tourist destination in the world. The Strip recently received its first-ever park, a spectacular public space designed by !melk, that is destined to become the most visited park in the world.

What makes this project remarkable is the fact that private corporations, the owners of the properties along Las Vegas Boulevard, recently came to realize the value of investing in outdoor public space versus traditional (buildings) real estate development. They also see the economic and marketing value of sustainable, authentic, and contextual design. A more complete and mature urban condition has begun to form as a contrast to the prevailing thematic and artificial attractions that gave Las Vegas its familiar reputation to date.

The cutting-edge design of “The Park� celebrates the context of the Mojave region and reinstates what Las Vegas once was - an oasis in the desert.

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I Parks

Las Vegas exists in an extremely challenging arid location, exposed to sun, heat, dust storms, and scarcity of water. All design elements mitigate these extremes to create the most enjoyable urban experience possible. Iconic shade structures, water features, and desert plantings with drought resistant trees help temper the Las Vegas heat. “The Park” utilizes “best management practice” sustainability guidelines for water use.

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Flexible Flexible Sustainable Sustainable...

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I Parks “We always strive to create spaces that exude an identity that is authentic to the context of a project,” said the designer. “The Park” is a complete success in that regard. It celebrates the Mojave desert, using its colors, patterns, materials and vegetation. In terms of comfort, safety, food, and entertainment, there is no other place like it in Las Vegas. Amidst the hectic hustle and bustle of the Strip, we were able to create something that is not just sustainable, but also genuinely authentic to the City. In addition to its iconicity, “The Park” reinstates what Vegas once was: an oasis in the middle of the desert.”

Project details Client: MGM Resorts International Date of completion: April 2016 Construction time: 20 months; August 2014 - April 2016 Project type: urban landscape / pedestrian realm / park Size: 5 acres Cost: $100 million (including the architecture of the restaurants) Location: Las Vegas, Nevada Photo credit: ©Hanns Joosten

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I urban park

Reshaping Mexico’s public space

Francisco Pardo Arquitecto designs urban parks to revitalize neglected suburban neighbourhoods in Mexico.

By: Francisco Pardo Arquitecto Commissioned by CIDS and INFONAVIT — the Mexican Housing Institutions reshaping Mexico’s mortgage market and promoting sustainable housing development — Parque Colinas del Sol and Parque Los Héroes, both designed by Francisco Pardo Arquitecto are part of a wider programme rethinking public space to revert the poor conditions of social housing over the last 30 years and heal the scars of abandoned properties and social segregation that affect the urban outskirts of the country.

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Created in only six months, in full alignment with tight budgetary requirements and the need for ongoing low maintenance, the two parks featuring simple design solutions and affordable low-cost materials such as concrete, steel and cement blocks, and built with the support of the local community, by mobilizing the enthusiasm of local residents and generating a sense of belonging to a multicultural community.

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“It is important to change not only the physical condition but also the perception of the space: as a designer, I believe that supporting local communities to achieve better public spaces for their families helps the greater community,” explained Francisco Pardo, founder of the Mexican firm.

Parque Colinas del Sol consists of the revitalization of the plazas and parks pertaining to the Unidad Habitacional de Colinas del Sol in Almoloya de Juárez.

In order to optimize the two-hectare area, the site has been divided into different thematic areas — from the playground to the meditation spot, the skate ramp and football court to the pavilion for public events, enabling spontaneous and effective architectural interventions.

A partially contaminated water stream has been transformed into a river allowing a slow drop watering system for vegetation and articulating the different sections of the park, which have been designed according to the activity and the users’ age, to foster family gatherings and the integration of the community.

The makeover of Parque Los Héroes, located in the Unidad Habitacional de Los Héroes Sección III in the city of Toluca de Lerdo, consisted of renovating the existing pavement using a single modulus, in order to articulate different spaces and define new activities. The unit is a hexagonal cobblestone which, like a pixel, modifies the topography and favours a flexible space layout. To complement the proposal, a tree grid of 100 new pieces — each located at a three-metre distance, has been installed. Including children’s playgrounds, a football and a basketball court, and a skating ring, the park is inclusive and has been designed to improve the life quality of the adjacent housing units and primary school.

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I urban park

Although they have been designed according to specific natural and social conditions, both projects feature common elements, thus ensuring harmony among the built and natural environments that can be repeated or integrated into a system that is potentially applicable to any other context. One is the floor cement block, which can be easily adapted to any layout, be it natural or artificial. The creative combination of the blocks and in-situ poured concrete filling, generate new patterns like an urban tapestry. The second is the playground system: the various concrete walls and metal bars can be arranged in multiple configurations, thereby constituting different spaces that are suitable for all uses and users.

More than just oases to help citizens reconnect with nature, the parks are tools for engagement and environmentalism. Through the transformation of suburban areas into green recreational spaces embedded in the city fabric, Parque Colinas del Sol and Parque Héroes are fast becoming a beloved urban spot for residents.

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CREDITS Architect: Francisco Pardo Arquitecto Client: INFONAVIT (Instituto del Fondo Nacional de la Vivienda para los Trabajadores) CIDS (Centro de Investigación para el Desarrollo Sostenible) Design team: Francisco Pardo, Daniel Vázquez, Ivan Saucedo, Julián Ramírez, Karen Burkart, Sofía Alami, Wilfrido Estrada Construction: OMESA Structurist: DECSA Installations: BANAH DE MÉXICO Hidraulic engineering: Taller ID Project: 2017 Construction: 2018 PARQUE COLINAS DEL SOL Location: Unidad Habitacional Colinas del Sol, Almoloya de Juárez, State of Mexico GFA: 18.200 sqm PARQUE LOS HÉROES Location: Unidad Habitacional Los Héroes III, Toluca de Lerdo, State of Mexico GFA: 12.200 sqm

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I book review

Books of interest The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) is now making its ASLA Discover Landscape Architecture Activity Books available in Spanish for the first time. Now more people will be able to learn that landscape architecture careers combine art, science and the environment—and possibly become landscape architects themselves.

Designed by ASLA members, the activity books aim to inspire and teach anyone interested in landscape architecture and the built environment. The activity books’ primary focus is landscape architecture, giving readers the opportunity to see and sketch the many drawings, places and landscapes created by landscape architects.

The Spanish translation is an important part of ASLA’s initiative to inspire more people from diverse backgrounds to become landscape architects. The books have been available in English since June 2018.

-credit ASLAAbout ASLA Founded in 1899, the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) is the professional association for landscape architects in the United States, representing more than 15,000 members. The Society’s mission is to advance landscape architecture through advocacy, communication, education and fellowship. Sustainability has been part of ASLA’s mission since its founding and is an overarching value that informs all of the Society’s programs and operations. ASLA has been a leader in demonstrating the benefits of green infrastructure and resilient development practices through the creation of its own green roof, co-development of the SITES® Rating System, and the creation of publicly accessible sustainable design resources.

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