December 2023

MIDDLE EAST

DECEMBER 2023

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The First Specialised Landscape Magazine in the Middle East

EDITOR’S NOTE I couldn’t think of a more fitting way for us to end the year than the recent Landscape Middle East Sustainability Awards 2023 that we held on the 15th of November in the opulent Atlantis the Royal, the Palm Dubai. After a year of planning, we brought together over 500 industry professionals to recognise and honour outstanding achievements in landscape architecture and sustainability across the Middle East region.

With more than 30 awards presented, spanning various categories, including Lifetime Achievement, Prominent Professionals, Rising Stars, Distinguished Organizations, and Project Awards in Urban Landscape, Parks and Recreation, Tourism and Retail, as well as Landscape Art and Landscape Landmarks. The evening was summed up best by Ziad Amine, the Managing Partner of Landscape Middle East, when he expressed his gratitude to the event’s partners, the International Federation of Landscape Architects and the Saudi Society of Landscape Architects, who he said “share our dedication to advancing the landscape industry internationally and within the Middle East.” Before reminding the audience that “our anticipation for future collaborations knows no bounds.”

One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of a groundbreaking partnership between Landscape Middle East Magazine and Michael Haddad, the regional goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for Arab States. This partnership heralds the launch of the “Landscape For All” initiative, which aims to raise awareness about the paramount importance of inclusive landscape design, catering to the diverse needs of individuals, including those with disabilities and their families.

“The Landscape For All” initiative is a resounding declaration that public and private spaces should be welcoming and accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. Through insightful articles, compelling case studies, expert insights, and the support of the Landscape Industry, this initiative will illuminate the potential of inclusive design, showcasing how embracing diversity enriches the lives of our entire community, fostering a profound sense of belonging and unity.

The Landscape Middle East Sustainability Awards 2023 was a spectacular evening of celebration for the entire Middle East Landscape industry. It marked a significant highlight in the landscape industry for 2023 and will serve as a source of inspiration for industry peers and the next generation of landscape professionals as they follow in the footsteps of the recognised winners, continuing to contribute to the industry’s ongoing success into 2024.

Managing Partner: Ziad Maarouf Amine Copy Editor: John Hampton Phillip Higgins Administrative Assistance: Sarry Gan Art Director: Ramon Andaya Contributors: Justine Dowsing, Carlos Marinas Rubio, Zaran Tarapore, Bethany Rolston, Richard Mottershead, Carlos Pissarra, Morten Printed by: Al Nisr Publishing LLC Webmaster: www.pdinventive.com

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CONTENTS

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December 2023 - Issue 198

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Landscape Sustainability Awards 2023 Roundup New family-friendly destination

22 dedicated to trees opens in Sharjah 26 Azabudai Hills 32 Blooming Resilience 36 A Visual Triumph farm in the heart of 40 Urban Hong Kong

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I NEWS & EVENTS

CRACKNELL ADVOCATES FOR INCLUSIVE CLIMATE ACTION AT COP28 UAE landscape architects Cracknell pledge their support for the ‘Accessibility in Landscape’ initiative, brought forward by Michael Haddad, UNDP Regional Goodwill Ambassador at COP28.

During the recent COP28 held in Dubai, the Cracknell team walked alongside Michael Haddad, UNDP Regional Goodwill Ambassador in support of Inclusive Climate Action. The walk took place on the 6th of December, also known as Built Environment Day. Group Design Directors Robert Shakespeare and Fady Khalife, and Horticulture Director Colleen D’Souza were joined by members of the Cracknell team as they walked across the Green Zone with the Ambassador to highlight the need for those with differing accessibility needs, “to have equality in making sustainable life choices and to have full participation in measures to mitigate and adapt to climate change.”

Mr Shakespeare of Cracknell then pledged the company’s support for the ambassador’s initiative and vowed to continue to drive forward with building inclusive and accessible cities and landscapes, “working together with our clients and partners to create a public realm that meets the needs of all.”

Mr Haddad was accompanied on the walk by a significant group that included one of Cracknell’s clients client, Red Sea Global, represented by Scott Henshaw, as well as the Landscape ME team.

“At Cracknell we support the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10 Reduced Inequalities and SDG 11 Sustainable Cities & Communities by driving inclusion and accessibility in the landscapes we design in order to enable resilient and sustainable lifestyles for all.

“For instance, last year we facilitated the planting of over 41,500 trees, contributing greatly to urban greening and providing the opportunity for those in warmer climates to use outdoor spaces more comfortably. It’s well known that green spaces offer health benefits to all by reducing the ambient air temperature and improving air quality but there are additional benefits to those with disabilities which is estimated at around 16 per cent of the world population or 1.6 billion people. For example, trees can serve as directional cues to persons with visual impairments, exposure to green spaces has mental health benefits for persons with dementia and being amongst planted environments reduces stress, which can particularly affect persons with disabilities. With one of the four causes

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of disability being aging, almost everybody will pass through a stage in their life when these considerations will be paramount.

“In our masterplans in the MENA region we have created micromobility loops for cyclists, electric scooters and those using prams, wheelchairs, and mobility aids, ensuring that these routes pass regularly through ‘cool-spots’ shaded by trees and cooled by water features or natural breezes channelled from the coast via orientation of the streetscape design and building massing. Access to nature for all is vital if we are to empower everyone to understand and engage with the natural world and its protection. This includes the design of boardwalks and kayaking routes through preserved and newly planted mangroves, creating opportunities to view coral reefs from suspended nets, the creation of observatories in preserved wildlife habitat sanctuaries, and the design of resorts that protect, preserve and enhance turtle hatching sites for all to view without impacting the habitat.”

Challenges to overcome when creating Inclusive environments Facilitating inclusive environments can however sometimes be challenging, and there are specific issues in the MENA region that need addressing through awareness-raising in order to unlock the full potential of the public realm. These include: a fresh perspective on health and safety and an increased understanding of the benefits of ‘risky play’ in order to allow for more engaging, inclusive and hands-on exploration of the urban environment; a willingness from all parties involved in development to collaborate with neighbouring developments to facilitate a cohesive access network for the mutual benefit of all; the forward planning of access pathways and ramps for all facilitating free movement without street furniture and signage causing obstacles - too often seen with retrofitting of routes; the integration of inclusive access integrated with urban mobility and transport systems, including signage, ramps and information systems designed for all those facing challenges; the collaboration by all parties on providing ‘entry fee free’ access to open space that is within a few minutes reach by all.

“In joining the ‘Accessibility in Landscape’ initiative we look forward to working collaboratively throughout all our business relationships to help combat common challenges found and realise the opportunities to contribute to more inclusive thinking within the built environment.

Access by all to nature and to cities and infrastructure is vital to ensure opportunities for engagement with and participation in climate action at every level - a resilient and sustainable future is most certainly an inclusive one.”

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I NEWS & EVENTS

Milestones in the life of landscape architecture By: Dr. Jala Makhzoumi The Landscape Middle East Awards, celebrated in Dubai on November 15, 2023, marked the coming of age of landscape architecture in the region. The event brought together landscape consultancies, landscape-associated businesses, academics and officials associated with the profession who united in their dedication to the profession; each contributing to advance landscape architecture, an emerging profession in the region.

The title ‘landscape Architect’ was popularised by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in their winning entry for the Central Park New York competition. Shortly after, in 1899, the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) was established, recognising the profession in North America, aiming to ‘provide a voice of authority to what was then seen as a ‘New Profession’. Thirty years later, the Institute of Landscape Architects (ILA), was founded in Britain. ASLA and the ILA were indeed milestones, pioneering the profession in the Global North, inspiring and leading professional advancement, respectively in the USA and Britain.

Expanding the professional imaginary, Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe, IFLA’s longest-serving president, went on to establish the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) in 1948, yet another milestone. Jellicoe’s vision of IFLA came in response to the growing complexity of twentieth-century challenges that he saw as necessitating the collaboration of landscape architects across national borders on a planetary scale. In his words, “We are promoting landscape art on a scale never conceived of in history.”

IFLA, a not-for-profit, non-political and nongovernmental organisation, represents the world body of landscape architects. IFLA’s member states, ratified national associations, fall under IFLA’s five regions: Africa, the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.

IFLA’s mission is “to promote the landscape architecture profession within a collaborative partnership of the allied built-environment professions, demanding the highest standards of education, training, research and professional practice, and providing leadership and stewardship in all matters.”

This year, IFLA celebrates its 75th anniversary and boasts 80 member states – the latest two to be ratified by the IFLA World Council in 2023 were the Egyptian Society for Landscape Architects and the Saudi Society for Landscape Architects. In the 75 years, perception of the profession has changed considerably. For most of the twentieth century, landscape architecture was understood to improve living environments, in other words, to beautify through the planting of trees, lawns and bedding. Today, the professional scope has expanded to address climate change, natural and cultural heritage, environmental sustainability and matters pertaining to social justice.

IFLA Middle East (IFLA ME) is the fifth and youngest of IFLA Regions. Unlike the other four, it is not defined by continental borders

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but rather by its geographic centrality as the intersection of Asian, African and European cultures. At the heart of the region are the Arab States, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Syria, United Arab Emirates and Yemen. Only 4 of the 13 IFLA ME member states have IFLA-recognized national associations: the Iranian Society for Landscape Professionals (ISLAP), ratified in 2007, the Lebanese Landscape Association (LELA) and the Jordanian Association of Landscape Architects (JALA), and this year, the Saudi Society of Landscape Architects (SSLA) was ratified by IFLA. Our goal at IFLA-ME is to support landscape professionals and encourage them to establish IFLA-ratified national associations that connect to the IFLA’s global network of professionals and bring support designed to initiate academic programs in landscape architecture.

It is hard to believe, but only five of the 13 member states in the region offer landscape architecture or landscape engineering university degrees, a fact that we aim to change in the near future.

Building a sound industry network is important for us at IFLA, identifying local partners such as the Landscape Middle East (LME).

The LME magazine was the brainchild of Ziad Al Amine who launched the publication 15 years ago to showcase advancements in the landscape profession and industry. In April 2023, IFLA ME and LME signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to provide a collaborative relationship that brings regional and international benefits and value to the industry. The Landscape Middle East Awards 2023 is one outcome of this cooperation.

With more than 500 individuals attending, the Landscape Middle East Awards was a major success for the industry, setting yet again another landscape profession milestone. The event recognised industry individuals, organisations and project success throughout the Middle East region, presenting 27 awards for Community Leaders, Lifetime Achievement, Prominent Professionals, Rising Stars, and Distinguished Organizations.

There were 62 entries from 8 countries (UAE, Qatar, KSA, Oman, Kuwait, Egypt, Bahrain, Lebanon, and Jordan) for the project categories reflecting the scale of landscape architecture services. These included Urban Landscapes, Parks and Recreation, Tourism and Retail, Landscape Art and Landmark Legacy. A total of 22 entries received awards.

As a member of the Award Jury, I found the quality of projects and the diversity in scale and approach impressive. Most aspired to the highest standards of excellence in landscape architecture. Also admirable was the intensity of preparatory work by the LME Team – launching the competition, jury selection and follow-up, organising entries and completing the information for each entry that included background information, the aspirations of the design team, location of the project, why and how it qualifies for a ‘sustainability award’.

Landscape architecture is a profession in the making, not only in the Middle East, but the world over. A limited number of landscape professionals aside, the region has much to offer. Writing for the Green Book commemorating 75 years of IFLA, I highlighted the contrast within the Middle East. On the one hand, the northern half, what was historically known as the Fertile Crescent and cradle of civilisation, offers a diversity of cultural landscapes and traditional, sustainable management of land and water resources but endures political instability and civil strife. On the other hand, is the southern half of the region, the Arabian Peninsula and Gulf States, endowed economically and stable politically, free to explore future landscapes at an unprecedented scale, determined to place their global mark on climate change and sustainable development. Both have immense potential to contribute to landscape architecture in ways that are as different as their contrasting circumstances.

The First Specialised Landscape Magazine in the Middle East

A journey of artistry and architectural marvels: CARLOS MARINAS RUBIO Carlos Marinas Rubio, a name synonymous with artistic excellence and architectural ingenuity, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Landscape Middle East Sustainability Awards 2023.

This prestigious recognition celebrates Carlos’s lifelong dedication to landscape and project design in the UAE for more that 45 years. His remarkable journey, spanning from his humble beginnings in Segovia, Spain, to becoming a renowned sculptor of monumental architectural marvels, serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of passion and creativity.

The Early Years and Artistic Beginnings Carlos Marinas Rubio’s artistic journey commenced in the picturesque town of Segovia, Spain. Surrounded by the Romanesque churches, aqueduct, and castle, young Carlos found himself drawn to the rich architectural and historical heritage of his hometown.

It was in Segovia that he began to discover his passion for art.

As a child, Carlos displayed a remarkable talent for craftsmanship, often creating intricate objects from wood, paper, and metal. Little did he know that these early experiments would lay the foundation for his future sculptures. His artistic horizons expanded as he ventured into working with materials such as iron, wood, and bronze, and he often incorporated architectural elements into his creations. His extraordinary talent did not go unnoticed, as esteemed architects like Felix Candela and Cayetano de Cabanyes recognised his potential and collaborated with him.

Monumental Sculptures and Global Impact In 1968, Carlos Marinas Rubio embarked on a new chapter in his career, transitioning to crafting monumental sculptures. His work quickly gained

recognition in Spain, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s artistic landscape. Notable projects during this period included the Aceca Power Plant monument, the Almaraz nuclear plant control room sculpture, and various military memorials. His artistry extended beyond Spain’s borders, contributing to global projects such as the Chicago sculpture in memory of Fazlur Khan and the Spanish Institute in Rome.

The Transformative Chapter in the UAE However, it was in 1978 that Carlos’s most transformative chapter began when he ventured to the UAE and had the privilege of meeting Dr. Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah. This opportune encounter marked the beginning of a profound partnership aimed at enhancing Sharjah’s beauty through the integration of art and architecture.

Under Carlos’s skilled hands, Sharjah witnessed the emergence of awe-inspiring monuments that have since become iconic landmarks. These include the magnificent Rolla Square, the solemn Koran Monument, the symbolic Union Monument, the captivating Kuwait Roundabout, the visionary Progress Monument, the regal Al Tawun Roundabout, and the iconic University Clock Tower.

Legacy of Creativity and Beauty Carlos Marinas Rubio’s legacy in the UAE continued to flourish through a series of remarkable projects, each contributing to the region’s cultural and architectural tapestry. These projects include the serene Rolla Park, the educational Sharjah Planetarium, the grand Sharjah Capital Cultural of Islamic World 2014, the poignant Martyrs Monument, the intellectual University Forums, the scenic Khor Fakkan Lagoons, the captivating Khor Fakkan Waterfall, the stately Kalba Clock Tower, and the visionary Kalba University.

Carlos Marinas Rubio’s life journey, from his early creations in the historic town of Segovia to becoming a sculptor of monumental architectural marvels in the UAE, exemplifies the remarkable power of passion, creativity, and dedication to one’s craft. His artistry has enriched both Spain and the Arab Emirates with timeless works that will continue to inspire and captivate generations to come. Carlos’s enduring legacy serves as a testament to the enduring impact that art can have on a community, a nation, and the world.

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I ENVIRONMENT

New family-friendly destination dedicated to trees opens in Sharjah By: Arada

Designed to boost awareness of environmental issues and promote responsible behaviour, Shajar is one of the UAE’s largest nurseries, containing over 130,000 trees destined for Arada’s communities 22

The First Specialised Landscape Magazine in the Middle East

Spread over a 1.6 million square foot area, Shajar, which means ‘trees’ in Arabic, is one of the largest nurseries in the UAE. The nursery and visitors attraction was built by UAE developer Arada, to house approximately 130,000 trees that are being carefully nurtured prior to being planted in their communities.

It’s designed to become a family-friendly and educational attraction to promote the welfare of trees and boost environmental awareness, Shajar also incorporates a welcome centre, tour experience and upmarket café, all surrounded by a huge variety of trees and shrubs.

The first stop at the Shajar experience is the welcome center, which informs visitors about the benefits of trees, the effects of deforestation and

biodiversity issues, while encouraging them to take action against climate change.

Visitors can then enjoy a guided tour of the full Aljada nursery where they can learn about some of the 50 different types of species being grown and the life-stages of each tree at Arada communities.

Each visitor will also get an opportunity to plant their very own tree at the on-site workshop.

The Shajar experience also includes The Hut, a beautifully designed and atmospheric café surrounded by a leafy canopy of trees. Open daily from 8am, The Hut offers specialty coffee, as well as snacks, meals and a range of drinks, and is already proving popular with residents of Aljada and the wider community.

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I ENVIRONMENT

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said: “Trees play a fundamental role in all our communities, and are hugely important from an aesthetic, health and environmental perspective.

The Shajar initiative allows us to spread awareness of the benefits of trees, while also demonstrating the importance of effective and sustainable natural resource management.”

Each of Arada’s three communities in Sharjah – which includes the Masaar forested master development that includes 50,000 trees – as well as its upcoming projects in Dubai, feature extensive natural landscaping. This landscaping is irrigated by recycled water distributed via state-of-the-art systems that reduces the amount of water required and minimises leakages.

Arada also recently announced that it was investing in a new research and development partnership with Hungarian firm Biopolus, Sharjah Research Technology and Information Park (SRTIP) and Metito to bring a new form of sustainable water treatment to the UAE for the first time.

Shajar adds to the fast-growing list of attractions on offer at Aljada. These include Bounce, a popular trampoline park, the Zad food truck district, a large

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children’s adventure playground and waterplay area, and the Aljada Skate Park. Sharjah’s largest and most advanced gym, Wellfit Madar, is also scheduled to open to the public in the coming weeks.

Spread over a 24 million square foot area and featuring more than 25,000 homes, Aljada is Sharjah’s largest ever project and a transformational destination for the Emirate. Aljada contains numerous residential districts, as well as extensive retail, hospitality, entertainment, sporting, educational, healthcare components and a business park, all set within a green urban master plan.

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I URBAN LIVING

H I L L S Toyoko opens impressive new neighbourhood making it one of the city’s greenest urban districts By: Heatherwick Studio The project, known as Azabudai Hills, is made up of residential buildings, retail spaces, a school, two temples, art galleries, offices and restaurants, all set within 2.4ha of green, publicly accessible landscape. It’s the culmination of a thirty-year regeneration process steered by Mori Building Co.

Credit: Kenji Masunaga

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Ltd., Japan’s leading urban landscape developer, along with British architecture firm, Heatherwick Studio who took the lead on the public realm and podium level architecture.

The design of the new neighbourhood encourages purposeful connections between commuters,

The First Specialised Landscape Magazine in the Middle East

Credit: Raquel Diniz

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I URBAN LIVING

Credit: Kenji Masunaga

residents and the public, and the 8.1 hectare district is filled with trees, flowers and water features. Meandering routes and walkable rooftop slopes invite exploration and informal gatherings.

Thomas Heatherwick, Founder of Heatherwick Studio, said: “We were inspired to create a district that connects with people’s emotions in a different way. By combining cultural and social facilities with an extraordinary three-dimensional, explorable, landscape, it’s been possible to offer visitors and

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the local community somewhere to connect with each other and enjoy open green public spaces.

This is a joyful and unique public place for Tokyo, designed to be cherished for many years.”

Tokyo is a juxtaposition of old and new architecture, with large and small buildings pressed up against each other. The design celebrates this rich mixture of layers and all the variety and intensity of the city. Residents and visitors can come together and be inspired by a new landscape that includes

The First Specialised Landscape Magazine in the Middle East

Credit: Raquel Diniz

Credit: Raquel Diniz

Credit: Raquel Diniz

extensive public gardens, a central square and The Cloud event space. It is now one of Tokyo’s greenest urban areas and continues Mori Building Company’s commitment to creating garden cities where the landscape simultaneously supports nature and people.

Throughout the thirty-year regeneration of this site, Mori Building Co. collaborated with over 300 residents and businesses to bring the district to life.

Over 90% of the original tenants and businesses

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I URBAN LIVING

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Credit: Raquel Diniz

The First Specialised Landscape Magazine in the Middle East

Credit: Raquel Diniz

have now chosen to return to the new district.

Azabudai Hills is also on track to become one of the world’s largest sites to receive the preliminary WELL certification, the highest-level LEED Neighbourhood Development certification for mixed use developments, and LEED’s BD+C (Building Design/Core and Shell Development) certification.

New British International School built in the heart of Toyoko’s green hub As part of the development, Heatherwick Studio has designed its first school, The British School of Tokyo. At 15,000 sqm, this is the largest international school in the heart of the city. The design takes full advantage of the local climate with a seamless flow

of outdoor learning and recreational spaces spread across eight levels, where students and teachers can enjoy working.

Neil Hubbard, Partner and Group Leader at Heatherwick Studio said: “Over the last 10 years, we have tried to get under the skin of what makes something distinctively Tokyo, whilst at the same time adding something new that’s fresh and soft to its modern built environment. We wanted to create vistas full of variety and intrigue and spaces to explore. It’s a confluence of different families of design all brought together in one place. I can’t wait to watch people explore it.”

An estimated twenty-five to thirty million people will visit this new public district every year.

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I HORTICULTURAL CONNECTION We pay the utmost care and attention to our environment for it is an integral part of the country, our history and our heritage. Our forefathers and our ancestors lived in this land and coexisted with its environment, on land and at sea, and instinctively realised the need to preserve it.

HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan ‘Pictures supplied by Ceidiog Communication’

Blooming Resilience By: Dr. Richard Mottershead, Dr. Jacqueline Maria Dias, Professor Wegdan Bani Issa, Dr. Nabeel Al-Yateem, Ms Mini Sara Abraham These words resonate from history but hold such relevance given the Emirates hosting the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference to explore the current global climate crisis. In creating a ‘majlis’ for this special gathering on climate change the United Arab Emirates is looking forward to welcoming the global community for COP28. This generosity of character is based on the time-honoured Arab traditions of ‘karam’ historically stemming from a desire to nurture travellers who pass-by on their journeys. Emirati hospitality honours the ‘guest’ and seeks to ensure they feel welcomed and thereby ridding them of feeling out of place and providing a home away from their home. This most sacred of caveats is the beating

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heart of COP28 and will allow the global community to continue a dialogue over the necessity to explore our collective capacity to sustain health, promote well-being and nurture life through strategies on sustainability.

At the University of Sharjah within the College of Health Sciences there is a concerted effort to promote an awareness with the healthcare students on how our environment can have a significant impact on their future patient’s health and well-being.

Furthermore, the faculty are ensuring that the students are equipped with a skillset that empowers the students to use health strategies and therapies to meet the needs of the UAE population. The faculty

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Pictures supplied by Ceidiog Communication

within the College of Health Sciences are aware of the evidence that suggests that our environment can have positive effects on health and wellbeing for those with stress-related disorders as well as those with common mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression and social isolation. The faculty believe that the recent global pandemic has created a need to explore holistic care approaches that provide support across a spectrum from mental health issues, special needs to complex physical rehabilitation.

Dr. Jacqueline Maria Dias, Chair of Department of Nursing; College of Health Sciences at the University of Sharjah explains that our curriculum ensures that our nursing students are fully aware of how our environments can both positively and negatively impact those entrusted into their care. Dr. Muhammad Subu who teaches mental health within the College of Health Sciences teaches his students how it’s possible to improve wellbeing and the quality of life for individuals by connecting them to community-based activities and resources. His mental health colleague, Dr. Richard Mottershead, articulates the point that well-being refers to an interrelationship between a positive state of mind and body, a sense of purpose, meaning and an overarching sense of belonging. Our environment can often create the cognitive landscape of our own mental well-being. The team ensures that their students are entuned to modern healthcare practices inclusive of a range of therapies and approaches such as milieu therapy, social prescribing and horticulture therapy.

How Horticultural Therapy Cultivates Well-Being and Positive Mental Health In the United Kingdom, there has been a historical use of using the land and landscape to treat those with acute as well as enduring mental trauma. This has perhaps been most prominent within military personnel who returned home from the World War Two not only with visible scars, but with the hidden wounds of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These silent battles are gaining recognition, as highlighted in the recent PhD study of Dr. Richard Mottershead, undertaken in the UK, endorsed by Yale University and housed within the British library’s 400 miles of shelves. Dr.

Richard highlights that the Magna Carta is a far more famous neighbour than his study within those hallowed shelves and is no doubt far more cited. Dr. Richard has worked within mental health for over 20 years and his recent work demonstrates that veterans often grapple with fear, flashbacks, night terrors, and the complexities of reintegration into a society that does not always fully understand the life experiences of those that have served their country. This disconnect and lack of understanding is at the heart of the issue as to why there is an alarming increase in mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts, and PTSD, not only for military veterans but also emergency service personnel who were on the front-line during the covid pandemic. This team of Professors at the University of Sharjah ensures that their students are informed and equipped to assist individuals affected by major crises and or trauma with a variety of therapeutic treatments and innovative care plans that incorporate the environment.

Horticultural Therapy: Cultivating Well-Being While horticultural therapy is still not a primary treatment for mental illness, numerous studies today suggest wide-ranging benefits.

Physical activity, a fundamental component of horticultural therapy, can enhance health outcomes for individuals with mental health needs by reducing obesity and improving mood. In 2015, Detweiler and a team of researchers were able to evidence that horticultural therapy fosters social interaction, alleviating the isolation often experienced by those with mental health problems and for groups that do not easily access main-stream health services. Within this study, the participants showed notable improvements in quality of life and for those that relied on alcohol as a coping mechanism, there was a reported reduction in its use.

Within Dr. Richard’s work he has found that for those that have served within the Armed Forces or have been on the frontline within the Emergency Services that PTSD is an enduring mental health challenge for those exposed to this very specific work-related stress. Dr. Richard explains that this diagnosis can manifest after traumatic experiences like combat, terrorist attacks, violent crimes,

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I HORTICULTURAL CONNECTION

or natural disasters inclusive of the global pandemic. For those that have been exposed to hazardous conditions, there appeared to be a 10% cohort from the past two decades that required treatment for mental health conditions. Within this cohort, PTSD looms as a prevalent and debilitating condition that can prove challenging to treat. Dr. Nabeel Al-Yateem an Associate Professor within the team at the College of Health Sciences remonstrates that these conditions often have a wider impact on the family and that their healthcare needs, specifically the children’s can become chronic and lifechanging if holistic treatment plans are not implemented. He adds that healthcare systems that are innovative and inclusive of environments that incorporate play and socialising for children will incorporate the psychological and social aspects so crucial to the biological needs often addressed through pharmaceutical interventions.

Ms Mini Sara Abraham lecturer at the college, an experienced critical care practitioner and midwife, highlights the importance that the Emirates emphasises on children in that they are a blessing to the family. Placing the family at the forefront of care is emphasized within the teachings of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Sharjah. She stresses the importance of discussing knowledge of plants and herbs as essential for promoting holistic and natural approaches to healthcare, reducing medical interventions, preserving cultural traditions, and improving healthcare access and affordability. Students are encouraged to explore the benefits of using natural methods to enhance well-being. Educate on food like date fruit, a natural remedy to enhance cervical ripening, reduce labour duration and improve uterine contraction during pregnancy.

Herbs like fenugreek similarly is traditionally used among the community for various purposes specially to enhance lactation.

Blooming Resilience: The Horticultural Connection Professor Wegdan Bani Issa explains that Horticultural therapy offers a unique path to healing for those with mental health issues as well as those physical health issues such as diabetes. Prof.

Wegdan believes that by engaging with plants and the natural world creates an environment that fosters physical and mental well-being within the communities that the individual is familiar with and

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has a sense of belonging. Dr. Richard seconds these sentiments and adds that here, the act of planting, nurturing, and harvesting becomes a metaphor for personal growth and recovery.

The team at the University believe that this therapeutic approach, while not a standalone solution, has shown remarkable promise.

It encourages physical activity, helping those with physical and mental health issues to combat obesity and improve their overall mood which naturally impacts on how they engage with their world and those within their communities. The team adds that horticultural therapy offers a bridge to social interaction, countering the isolation that often plagues those with enduring health care needs. These benefits extend beyond the garden to enhance a renewed quality of life and to rejuvenate the sense of self-worth that may have been eroded. Professor Wegdan emphasises the countries commitment to environmentally friendly practices and policies that inspire people to adopt more sustainable behaviors. This is particularly timely as the UAE hosts COP28 and attempts to create a care plan for the health of the planet.

Dr. Jacqueline summaries the team’s enthusiasm in that horticulture provides transformative potential, emphasizing its ability to facilitate physical and neurological rehabilitation.

She continues that the great outdoors provides a sanctuary from stress, enhancing concentration and cognitive function, a therapeutic approach that mirrors historical successes in aiding the individual and their families transition to positive wellbeing. The team at the College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing ensure that all students are taught these principles and incorporate them into their practice.

Future Considerations The team is globally active in research and actively explores to incorporate knowledge and international research to benefit the United Arab Emirates. The team has been involved in a UK initiative via Dr. Richard. The pioneering project aims to harness

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the therapeutic potential of horticultural therapy for those that have served their country through military service and the emergency services (blue light) and to ensure the needs of their families are also met. Within the UK project based within north Wales, the participants left behind the confines of urban environments and immersed themselves in the open countryside at Ty Gwalia, which is a small farm within the foothills of the Welsh mountains.

Participants engage in horticultural tasks, communal cooking, and outdoor activities which aids in physical and mental rehabilitation and facilitates reintegration and relationship development.

This project, led by the UK charity Woody’s Lodge, represents a holistic approach to mental health support, offered free of charge, recognising the importance of personalised recovery and community-based resources to strengthening the bonds between healthcare providers, the community, and those in need. Horticulture and a deep connection to nature stand as a powerful tool in addressing the mental health challenges faced by all who suffer.

Initiatives like the Ty Gwalia project offer a gateway to community-based resources, improved access to psychological treatments, and holistic care for the broader determinants of mental well-being that can be accessible for all.

Activities at Ty Gwalia are accessible not only for veterans and emergency service personnel but here students from Myddelton College in Denbigh, north Wales selflessly supported.

The students live locally to the Ty Gwalia project in Llangynhafal and Gellifor. Their Headmaster Mr. Andrew Allman explains that sustainability and land-based, open-air initiatives are the core of how we seek to ensure our students engage with the environment.

We didn’t need to encourage the students, they saw an initiative

close to their hearts and they actively sought to make a positive impact in their community – this is th e ethos of Myddelton College and we are very proud of them and their compassionate engagement in the Ty Gwalia initiative.

The team at the University of Sharjah believe in the blossoming potential of horticultural therapy and that it promises to be a beacon of hope and healing. They conclude that the landscape has always been invariably interwoven into the history of the United Arab Emirates. The history of this great nation has always been shaped by the seashore and the inland desert. It has been a source of substance, prosperity and identity shaping the Emirates and its people. Collectively, the team believes that these land-based psychosocial interventions offer an early, proactive response to mental distress and promote mental health through physical engagement with this beautiful and awe-inspiring land.

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I URBAN LANDSCAPE

Enhancing Landscape Design with 3D Renders:

A Visual Triumph By: Carlos Pissarra 36

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In the realm of landscape design and architecture, the power of visualization cannot be overstated. The ability to transform abstract ideas into tangible representations is crucial for both designers and clients. The world of 3D visualization offers numerous advantages in the process.

Traditionally, landscape design relied heavily on 2D sketches and blueprints.

While these are valuable tools, they often struggle to convey the intricate details and immersive experiences that modern landscape projects aim to deliver. This is where 3D rendering technology has come to the forefront.

One of the most significant benefits of 3D renders in landscape design is their ability to provide a lifelike preview of the finished project. By creating 3D models of the proposed landscape, designers can offer clients a realistic glimpse into what

their space will look like once the project is completed. This not only helps clients make informed decisions but also fosters a deeper emotional connection with the design.

Clear communication between designers, clients, and other stakeholders is crucial for a successful landscape project. 3D renders facilitate this by offering a common visual language that everyone can understand.

Clients can provide feedback more effectively when they see a 3D representation of the design, leading to better collaboration and alignment of expectations.

Design revisions and changes are inevitable during any landscape project.

With 3D renders, modifications can be made swiftly and accurately. Designers can adjust elements like plant placements, hardscape features, and lighting, allowing clients to explore different options and make informed decisions without costly on-site alterations.

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I URBAN LANDSCAPE

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Landscape projects often involve significant investments of time and money. 3D renders help mitigate risk by reducing the chances of misunderstandings or design flaws that can lead to costly revisions or delays. Clients can make well-informed choices early in the process, minimizing the likelihood of undesirable surprises during construction.

In today’s world, sustainable and environmentally conscious landscape design is of utmost importance. 3D rendering technology enables designers to simulate the environmental impact of their designs. They can visualize how various elements, such as native plants, water features, and green spaces, contribute to sustainability goals, fostering a greener future.

Beyond the design and construction phase, 3D renders are invaluable for marketing purposes. High-quality, photorealistic renders can be used in presentations, portfolios, and marketing materials to showcase a designer’s capabilities. They also play a crucial role in attracting potential clients by offering a visually stunning representation of what their outdoor space could become.

In the ever-evolving field of landscape design, 3D renders have become an indispensable tool. They bridge the gap between imagination and reality, offering clients a tangible vision of their dream outdoor spaces.

By enhancing communication, reducing risks,

and aiding in sustainable design, 3D renders, movies and interactive digital simulations elevate the landscape design process to new heights. As technology continues to advance, the fusion of creativity and visualization promises even more exciting possibilities for the future of landscape architecture.

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I URBAN FARM

Urban farm in the heart of Hong Kong By: Snohetta

In the middle of one of the most densely populated places in the world, the Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta has designed an urban farm to create a calming green pocket amidst the chaos of city life.

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In 2017, Snøhetta was commissioned by New World Development to design three residential clubhouses for The Pavilia Farm development in Tai Wai, Hong Kong. The recently opened clubhouses provide a space where people can interact, share experiences, and enjoy urban farming in a common garden.

A sanctuary for calm and simplicity Pavilia Farm is surrounded by mountains and connected to the Shing Mun River. Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta created the clubhouses to become sanctuaries of calm and simplicity in the heart of buzzing Hong Kong – closely integrated with nature – and as spaces that enhance the life quality of the residents at The Pavilia Farm.

The clubhouses are strategically placed in the development as an “interactive string”, connecting various programs that together form a wholesome and enriching experience for its residents. Pavilia Farm represents the future of the urban neighborhood – a shared area bringing people together and creating a feeling of ownership of the space.

“Pavilia Farm is a project that highlights the importance of creating new green, urban neighborhoods. More people live in cities than ever before - and that trend is likely to continue to increase in the future - so we need to build in a way that can make it sustainable - both environmentally and socially. The Pavilia Farm and the clubhouses are small but perfect examples of how that can be done. At Snøhetta we talk about collective ownership and creating places and

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I URBAN FARM

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spaces that belong to the collective and can bring people together. Spaces that belong to no one and everyone at the same time. With this project, the Tea House and The Farm House represent those ideas and create a green lung in the middle of pulsating Hong Kong. A space where all the residents can find peace and calm, but also interact and connect with each other”, says Robert Greenwood, Partner and Managing Director of Snøhetta Asia.

The houses The Tea House is designed as a point of arrival and as an experience of ascension – to leave the bustling and fast-paced city behind and ascend into calmness. For the Tea House, water is the main element. The building has an indoor pool on one side and a waterfall on the other. The sound of the falling water becomes an inseparable component of the Teahouse, a relaxing backing harmony calming the mind and slowing down the tempo.

In contrast to the meditative Tea House, the Farm House is a place for gathering – bringing the farm inside the house and bringing people together. The Farm House is surrounded by the urban farm and its produce – making it the centerpiece of Pavilia Farm. It is built around the rail-bound table system, carefully designed to bring the community together to create shared experiences.

In many ways similar to a dining table in a home, this table is the center point for conversations, laughter, and spending time together. Making the Farm House table the place where residents both prepare and eat the food they have gathered, while conversations flow and experiences are shared. The table is the heart of the Farm House, while the Farm House itself creates a close-knitted community through food and harvesting from nature.

Bringing people together The two houses are designed differently and to be used in different ways, but they are based on the same philosophy and serve the same purpose; to allow people of various backgrounds and age groups to come together, share experiences, and make memories.

The aim was to create buildings that can be used and loved by all. To create spaces that can improve the resident’s quality of life, provide a sanctuary for peacefulness, and a place that nurtures social contact and shared experiences in the heart of Hong Kong – one of the most densely populated places in the world.

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