June 2022 by Landscape Middle East

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MIDDLE EAST

JUNE 2022

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EDITOR’S NOTE In this issue we look at a range of projects spanning from the UAE and Bahrain to Vietnam and China. We are always looking to champion projects that leave their mark on the environment in positive ways, one such example in this issue is the new Four Seasons Hotel in Bahrain Bay. As the showpiece hotel of the new Bahrain Bay development it’s wonderful to see the scope of greenery and native planting that is incorporated into its design. See page 18 for more. NEOM, billed as Saudi Arabia’s future city in the kingdom’s northwest with its own set of rules and regulations, has launched its own greening initiative with the promise of rehabilitating at least 1.5 million hectares of land. NEOM’s initiative will see the return of 100 million native trees, shrubs and grasses by 2030 to aid the restoration of degraded land and repair of wildlife habitats. See page 12 Projects in The Sustainable City in Dubai and in Beijing are also featured for their contribution to biodiversity in urban communities. Enjoy the issue!

Managing Partner: Ziad Maarouf Amine Copy Editor: John Hampton Administrative Assistance: Sarry Gan Art Director: Ramon Andaya Contributors: Dr. Anne Gharaibeh, Jimena Martignoni, Ying Lou, John Arthur Davies, Jonathon Clokie, Sophia Cheung Printed by: Al Nisr Publishing LLC Webmaster: www.pdinventive.com

Please email us admin@landscape-me.com if you would like to have your company’s landscape projects featured in the magazine. For free subscription and to view the magazine please visit our website:

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22 CONTENTS 26 June 2022 - Issue 180

Interview with Jonathon Clokie Chief Landscape Architect

16 22 26 34

For the Love of Trees

Why you need a water feature in every design

Espaço Unisinos

40 2

Nestled in Place Smart Sites China’s Urban Communities

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I NEWS AND EVENTS

RTA rolls out Soft Mobility project at Al Barsha 1 and 2 as the number of areas covered will increase to 29 by 2026 (Al Tayer: The project enhances the city’s connectivity, encourages the public to use mass transit means, and supports the first and last-mile journeys)

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to start an expansion of its Soft Mobility Project to cover Al Barsha 1 and 2 in the third quarter of this year 2022 and the project is scheduled for completion in the third quarter of next year 2023. RTA also announced the studying and designing of soft mobility elements in eight Dubai districts namely: Al Ras, Al Bateen, Al Daghaya, Eyal Nasser, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Hor Al Anz, Abu Hail and Al Sabkha. Accordingly, the number of districts that will have soft mobility means will increase to 29 districts by the end of 2026. Commenting on the project, His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, DirectorGeneral, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority, said, “The expansion in providing soft mobility elements project culminates the excellent results of the initial phase of the project, which covered Al Qusais 1, Al Mankhool and Al Karama. The number of cycling trips at Al Qusais 1 doubled from 1173 journeys in 2020 to 2346 journeys in 2021. During the same period, the number of cycling trips increased by 23% at Al Karama and 12% at Al Mankhool. Pedestrians satisfaction with the improvement of the infrastructure as well as safety elements and soft mobility in the three districts clocked 88%, whereas the satisfaction rating of cyclists hit 87%. “RTA has carried out several soft mobility elements to improve the

infrastructure of the three localities, which included constructing more than 300 raised pedestrian crossings, and providing 33 km of shared cycling tracks in several areas. RTA has specified 52 km of roads shared by soft mobility (non-motorised) means and vehicles, installed 2000 directional and cautionary signs, adjusted 77,000 square metres of pavements, and constructed 21 rest stops and 7 shaded areas/pathways while ensuring the needs of people of determination are served. The project contributed to pushing the number of cycling trips in Dubai from 20 million trips in 2020 to 36 million trips in 2021,” he added. City Connectivity “The soft mobility plan aims to develop an integrated infrastructure that is friendly to all by enhancing the connection between development projects, attractions areas, and mass transit stations, which requires the use of individual mobility means like walking, bikes and electric scooters. The plan also aims to improve the first and last-mile solutions by offering an array of integral transport enablers such as cycling tracks, pedestrian crossings, rest areas, shaded areas/pathways, landscaped areas, car parks, drop-off and pick-up points and bike racks,” explained Al Tayer. RTA has commissioned a comprehensive study for a structural non-motorised mobility plan in Dubai. It focused on providing an appropriate

infrastructure befitting relatively long and medium journeys to ensure safe and smooth transport for all. RTA has charted out a strategy to expand the use of non-motorised transport modes, provide infrastructure friendly to residents, ease the accessibility for people of determination within the right-of-way, and enhance the connectivity between city components by facilitating the movement between development projects and attractions. The strategy focuses on improving the first and last-mile solutions and increasing the ridership of non-conventional (nonmotorised) transit means, such as walking and cycling, besides offering integral transport elements at all RTA projects. Integrated Transport The soft mobility project focuses on improving the elements of integrated transport, which mainly include: serving the needs of people of determination, constructing raised pedestrian crossings and speed-calming devices, specifying all types of cycling tracks, providing bike racks, installing directional and cautionary signs, adjusting pavements, specifying lanes shared by vehicles and nonmotorised transport modes, constructing rest stops along with landscaped and sitting areas, providing shaded areas/ pathways to encourage people to use soft mobility means, and providing parking along with pick-up and drop-off points. The selection of districts for implementing the soft mobility projects is based on several criteria including the availability of mass transit means, high ridership rates, population density, type of land use (residential, commercial, or combined residential/commercial), and the current situation of the infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists in the area.

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I NEWS AND EVENTS

NEOM LAUNCHES REGREENING INITIATIVE FOR PLANTING 100 MILLION TREES • In collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Cover and Combating Desertification • NEOM aims to improve vegetation cover across its site by rehabilitating at least 1.5 million hectares of land, further contributing to the Saudi Green Initiative • NEOM’s initiative will see the return of 100 million native trees, shrubs and grasses • Move also supports the Kingdom’s initiative to plant 10 billion trees NEOM, the sustainable regional development in northwest Saudi Arabia, has launched its very own regreening initiative in collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Cover and Combating Desertification. As part of its program to rehabilitate at least 1.5 million hectares of land, NEOM’s initiative will see the return of 100 million native trees, shrubs and grasses by 2030 to aid the restoration of degraded land and repair of wildlife habitats. The NEOM Regreening Initiative was announced at the International Exhibition & Forum for Afforestation Technologies in Riyadh, organized by National Center for the Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification and MEWA. The event aims to support Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, launched by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with a focus on protecting and sustaining vegetation cover, rehabilitating degraded sites and achieving sustainable management in pastures and national parks.

Nadhmi Al-Nasr, Chief Executive Officer of NEOM, said: “Protecting the natural landscape and ensuring the coexistence of human and natural habitats is integral to NEOM’s vision. By launching the NEOM Regreening Initiative in collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Cover and Combating Desertification, we are well underway to becoming a leading contributor to the conservation and preservation of one of the world’s outstanding natural environments.” Dr. Khaled Alabulqader, CEO of the National Center for Vegetation Cover and Combating Desertification, said: “The great support of HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for environmental protection and the development of vegetation cover is reflected in launching major projects, including the large-scale Saudi Green Initiative with initial investment of over SAR 700 billion, and regional greening project, the Middle East Green Initiative. Supporting the Kingdom’s development plans and economic diversification, the Saudi Green Initiative aims to contribute to building a green economy and reaching carbon neutrality by 2060. The new initiative launched by NEOM will have a great impact in supporting efforts aimed at protecting the environment, promoting nature and ensuring its sustainability, and directly contributing to the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative.” On a global scale, ecosystem degradation is causing unprecedented biodiversity losses. Carbon emissions, meanwhile, are exacerbating climate

change, and natural capital is depleting as economies progress. The launch of the NEOM Regreening Initiative will provide the landscape of opportunity needed to develop and scale up innovations to tackle the problems that the planet is facing. Through pioneering research partnerships, pilot technologies and innovations, NEOM is accelerating its efforts to repair the planet for current and future generations. NEOM is pioneering transformative experiences that reconcile the partnership between humanity and nature by establishing a world-class protected area and conserving 95% of its region. NEOM will make globally significant contributions to nature conservation through the implementation of science-based protection, restoration and rewilding programs. NEOM is a living laboratory that will inspire an evolutionary chapter in planetary regeneration and conservation. NEOM is participating in the International Exhibition & Forum for Afforestation Technologies as the main sponsor, as part of its efforts to provide sustainable solutions to the most pressing global environmental challenges and aid the Kingdom in delivering its 10-billion-tree-planting initiative, Saudi Green. A dedicated NEOM exhibition booth is situated at the heart of the event, offering an attractive platform for exchanging information about the NEOM Regreening Initiative and highlighting NEOM’s commitment to providing pioneering sustainable solutions to tackle global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

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I NEWS AND EVENTS

Tender Name

Description

Client

Region

Tender Cost (USD)

Post Date

Closing Date

Aesthetic Agriculture & Irrigation Maintenance

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

Amiri Diwan (Kuwait)

Kuwait

3333

2/12/2022

5/8/2022

Gardening & Agricultural Service

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

Ministry of Health (Oman)

Oman

3/29/2022

4/28/2022

Agriculture, Landscaping & Irrigation Maintenance

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

Kuwait University

Kuwait

3333

3/14/2022

4/24/2022

Gardens Maintenance Works

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

Eastern Province Municipality Emara (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

5467

2/12/2022

4/20/2022

Irrigating Trees & Plantings

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

Kuwait University

Kuwait

250

3/29/2022

4/19/2022

Irrigation Canals & Networks Construction

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

United Nations Development Programme - UNDP (Lebanon)

Lebanon

3/28/2022

4/18/2022

Nurseries Materials

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

Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

267

3/28/2022

4/18/2022

Agriculture, Landscaping & Irrigation Maintenance

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

Kuwait University

Kuwait

3333

3/16/2022

4/17/2022

3333

1/19/2022

4/17/2022

Agricultural Works

Maintenance of Internal and External Agricultural Works.

National Guard (Kuwait)

Kuwait

Irrigation Canals & Networks Construction

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

United Nations Development Programme - UNDP (Lebanon)

Lebanon

3/28/2022

4/15/2022

Hygiene & Agricultural Services

Provision of Hygiene and Agricultural Services and Hazardous Medical Waste.

King Saud University (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

4/1/2022

4/14/2022

Irrigation Channels & Rehabilitation

Provision of Irrigation Channels, Rehabilitation and Construction.

4/2/2022

4/13/2022

Summer Flowers

Supply of Summer Flowers.

187

3/29/2022

4/13/2022

Buildings Maintenance Works

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

400

3/16/2022

4/13/2022

Agricultural Materials & Tools

Supplying Agricultural Materials and Agricultural Tools.

147

Gardens & Irrigation Networks Maintenance Gardens Maintenance Trees & Shrubs Sub-Irrigation Network Agriculture, Landscaping & Irrigation Maintenance Aesthetic Agricultures Maintenance Irrigation Maintenance Planting & Maintenance Works Gardens Maintenance Works Gardens Maintenance Works

The Flying Saucer Mada Association (Lebanon) Lebanon Sharjah Art Foundation’s Tabuk Municipality (Saudi Arabia) project has been Saudi Arabia Al Baha Municipalityfor (Saudiprestigious Arabia) Saudi Arabia shortlisted Tabuk Municipality (Saudi Arabia) Saudi Arabia Architecture award.

3/30/2022

4/12/2022

Maintenance of Gardens, Irrigation Networks and Removal of Weeds, Also Manufacture and Supply of Egyptian Airports Company Egypt has been 60shortlisted 3/24/2022 Sharjah Art Foundation’s, The Flying Saucer Security Signs under Two Contracts.

4/12/2022

Maintenance of Gardens, Irrigation Networks and Removal of Weeds, Also Manufacture and Supply of Egyptian Airports Company projects were selected by an Security Signs.

4/12/2022

for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. The 20 shortlisted Egypt Master60 3/23/2022 independent Jury from a pool of 463 nominations for the 15th award cycle (2020–2022). Supplying Trees and Shrubs for the Axis of Prince Makkah Region Development Saudi Arabia 400 3/14/2022 Mohammed Bin Salman Road. Authority (Saudi Arabia) The Flying Saucer is a 1978 Brutalist-style building that Supplying a Sub-Irrigation Network and Modern originally housed a café, newsstand and gift shop; Madinah Municipality (Saudirestaurant, Arabia) Saudi Arabia 3/25/2022 Greenhouses with All its Accessories. use of the building changed several times from 1988 onwards. Execution, Development, Coordination and Maintenance Kuwait University Kuwait 3333 2/8/2022 of Aesthetic Agriculture, Landscaping and Irrigation. It comprises a star-shaped canopy around a seven-metre dome Execution, Development and Maintenance of Aestheticover a Public Authorityarrangement for Agricultural Affairs circular of eightKuwait columns and 3333 V-shaped 12/14/2021 Agricultures. & Fish Resources - PAAFR (Kuwait) pillars. The building was fully restored as a community art Maintenance and Irrigation of Gardens Taif Secretariat (Saudi Arabia) Saudi Arabia 933 12/8/2021 and Parks South of Taif. space, and a later extension to the building was demolished. Maintenance and Planting of the KISRs yards andThe surrounding Kuwait Institute for Scientific area Research parking was excavated for1000 construction Kuwait 11/30/2021 gardens in Shuwaikh and external sites (KISR) of a new underground community space to contain a public Maintenance and Operation of Gardens, Green Spaces, Eastern Province Municipality - Emara Saudi Arabia 5467 11/22/2021 Trees, Irrigation Networks and Pumps. (Saudi Arabia) art library, a film-screening room, and workspace and social Arrangement and Maintenance of Gardens, Indoor and areas; theMinistry area above and surrounding the building of Justiceit(Kuwait) Kuwait 1000 has been 11/16/2021 Outdoor Plants and Irrigation Networks. hardscaped as a public urban plaza.

Location: Sharjah, United Arab Emirates Client: Sharjah Art Foundation Architect: SpaceContinuum Design Studio / Mona El Mousfy Status: Completed

4/7/2022 4/6/2022 3/13/2022 3/13/2022 1/10/2022 3/1/2022 2/1/2022 2/13/2022

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49 9

I NEWS AND EVENTS

The Sustainable City celebrates biodiversity The Sustainable City in collaboration with Emirates Nature – WWF conducted a survey to chart biodiversity and assess urban ecology in the community and its wider impact The Sustainable City released the findings of a unique survey of biodiversity in the community. Working in collaboration with Emirates Nature – WWF, The Sustainable City decided to assess its urban ecology by conducting a detailed biodiversity assessment of the natural flora and fauna as well as the plants and wildlife that have been introduced to the community as part of its bid to diversify the ecology. The field surveys extended over six months and used monitoring equipment including ultrasound recorders and motion cameras to capture the movement of animals such as birds, reptiles, and bats. Also recorded were different types of plants, insects, mammals, fish, and fungi. Importantly, the residents of The Sustainable City were engaging in the field work through an app called iNaturalist, which is a social network of naturalists, citizen scientists, and biologists built on the concept of mapping and sharing observations of biodiversity across the globe. The survey results showed 102 different plant varieties, 27 bird species, 23 insect species, 3 types of mammals and small numbers of fish, reptiles, and mushrooms. Salah Habib, Chief Executive Office in Diamond Developers, said: “There is significant potential for emissions reduction, ecosystems thriving, and securing substantial economic benefits as cities become more resilient, liveable, and competitive. The survey results

from The Sustainable City demonstrate a vibrant ecology and our commitment to help restore natural ecosystems. As we celebrate World Environment Day around the world, Diamond Developers is committed to upholding environmental sustainability goals and achieving a netzero carbon future.” Karim El Jisr, Chief Sustainability Officer, said: “Urban ecology is much more than landscaping or design management. It is essential to provide and support healthy flora and fauna, as this not only supports wellbeing for residents but also contributes to air quality improvement, temperature regulation and flood prevention. Ultimately, every plant and animal species play a vital role in our ecosystem.” As part of its commitment to enhancing biodiversity, The Sustainable City has avoided or limited the use of toxic chemicals in pest management and weed control. Weeding is done manually and fogging, using a fine pesticide spray, is strictly limited, with preference given to nature-based solutions including bats which are effective at controlling mosquito populations. To prevent the spread of the Red Palm Weevil in date palms, The Sustainable City uses acoustic sensors to detect possible infections and manage the necessary response. The overall effect of reduced dependence on chemicals supports natural bee populations, as well as butterflies and other pollinating insects. Additionally, Dubai’s beekeepers’ association maintains an apiary inside The Sustainable City to promote natural pollination and to promote place-based education of our natural ecosystem. The 2022 World Environment Day campaign #OnlyOneEarth calls for collective, transformative action on a global scale to celebrate, protect and restore our planet. According to UNEP Executive Director, Inger Andersen, biodiversity loss is already costing the global economy 10 percent of its output each year so addressing this issue is urgent and essential to be able to achieve sustainable development.

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I INTERVIEW

Landscape sat the Louvre, inspired by natural landscapes found in Abu Dhabi and the coastal gulf

Interview with

JONATHON CLOKIE Chief Landscape Architect Jon Clokie is a British Landscape architect in charge of the Landscape department of Omrania, a Riyadh based architecture, engineering and urban planning company. As lead landscape architect for the company he has been tasked with growing their landscape capabilities both at home and in the region. Jon talks true sustainability and why that can only be achieved once training and universal employment structures are put in place. Congratulations on your new role, how will this role differ to previous jobs? This one allows me—in fact, compels me—to develop and build on ideas I have been working on for a long

time. Omrania has quite a “flat” senior management structure that seems open to new ideas, and my skills fit nicely into this framework. How does working in Saudi differ to working in the rest of the region in terms of the Landscaping industry? I’ve been working on Saudi projects for several years now, primarily on the well-known Giga projects, but also on regional master planning, pushing the landscape into full focus, arguing for use of native species in the landscape, low water budget solutions, recycling, and harvesting systems. All the normal stuff we do as

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Adventures in hidden wadis , Oman. Recording natives in their growing conditions to get the families, and communities they grow in more representative and realistic

“I strongly believe that landscape architecture is the overall facilitating profession and that landscape architects need to be the disruptors.” landscape architects, with a focus on this unique context. To plan hundreds of square kilometres is a tough call from a desk in London or Canterbury. Moving to Riyadh was an inevitable progression of that work. Were you hired to work on a specific project? The role came about as a result of a specific project, King Salman Park, but that project is only a part of my role. I’m here to consolidate and grow the company’s landscape capabilities, to broaden our national and regional presence and open up markets and possibilities. Which is a testament to

the board’s vision. It would be very enjoyable to focus only on the park, but they chose growth as well, and we have a lot of exciting work ahead. You’ve worked in several countries both in the UK and Middle East, what has been the highlight of your career thus far? Has there been a defining project? I get a real kick out of seeing landscape projects I’ve worked on appear on the walls of airport lounges, advertising the greatness of the country I’m in. Top of my list therefore has to be the Louvre Abu Dhabi, where I implemented the landscape. It was supremely challenging, but the Museum itself is probably one of the top five buildings in the world and I was honoured to work on it. And my last job in London was updating the landscape of Tuwaiq Palace, originally designed by my new employer. The level of responsibility was high—especially after I met Basem Shihabi, Omrania’s Chairman, in the interview to be his new Chief LA.

I INTERVIEW

The refurbishment of Tuwaiq Palace into a luxury hotel preserves the landscape as an integral part of the history of the building. Sometimes, not touching something is also the answer

For me this was an entirely perfect project and cyclical event. About ten years prior I’d been interviewed by Omrania, who took a very different view of me than they have today. They told me in no uncertain words: The weaknesses in my work, What was wrong with my portfolio, my design and my cursory, surface scratching analysis of Saudi cultural landscapes. That experience completely changed my view and approach. Since then I’ve worked hard to understand what I couldn’t before and to try and get under the skin of the region. Today I’m pleased to be a landscape architect at Omrania, heading up the team, and helping take the company into the next phases of the business. Now I can be heard challenging lazy, Eurocentric design solutions where international designers somehow think the locals aren’t able to design their own environment. Have you seen a project completed in this region that is truly sustainable? Do you have any ambition to fulfil such a project in KSA? I’ve still seen nothing better than Tuwaiq Palace. Iconic and still relevant. Sustainability is so much more than balancing the water budget, using local materials and installing native planting that the public is willing to accept isn’t just a pile of interesting weeds. Sustainability is about employment, education and training, and improving society. A sustainable place has

employment for all, has the workforce to do it and attracts talent. Sustainable environments are multidimensional. Sustainability may be technologically induced but ultimately must be culturally accepted and implemented on the human scale. When will people live sustainably? Not necessarily when they’re told to, but when they want to—because they like it, and it’s part of daily life. We have to design for that kind of world. Is this the biggest challenge that the landscaping industry in this part of the world is currently facing? In the short term its resources and education, water scarcity, intense weather activity, growing populations, food security. The long-term challenge is to build better places and one of the encouraging factors is a very strong movement towards more native planting which is exciting—and long overdue—but the infrastructure and engineering need to follow. The research, the methods, the production. etc. No point in planting a native tree and then using outdated irrigation calculations to kill it. I strongly believe that landscape architecture is the overall facilitating profession and that landscape architects need to be the disruptors. We are passionate and positive and take people with us along the route. Always pushing hard at radical change, so that we do what is possible today in order to encourage a legacy of improvement in the coming decades.

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I TREES

The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is the centrepiece of the new Bahrain Bay development. https://www.fourseasons.com/bahrain/

FOR THE LOVE OF

TREES

Four Seasons Hotel in Bahrain Bay leads the way in the hospitality sector with its enormous tree planting efforts By John A. Davies Inspired by an article in Landscape Middle East Magazine in which the author, landscape architect, Jean-Claude Melon, called upon landscape professionals to save mankind by planting trees; and my having written about the efforts in this regard by the government of Bahrain, this article discusses the contribution made by the hospitality industry in the kingdom, namely the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, centrepiece of the Bahrain Bay development. Located on a man-made island in the heart of Bahrain Bay, the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay rises majestically out of a rich forest setting. Although saving mankind may not have been specifically on the minds of the design team when they prepared the planting scheme; nevertheless, I’ve no doubt it was an inherent love of trees and plants generally,

Lush planting

and I like to think it was prompted at a subliminal level by Gaia, the soul of the world, who guided them in creating the botanical feast the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay presents to visitors and guests. Pausing for a moment and referring to Gaia or Nature, it is interesting to note that symbolically speaking, she is reflected in both the name of the hotel, and the group’s logo in the form of a tree depicting the changing seasons. I first became acquainted with Gaia in lessons about Greek Mythology during my long-ago school days, though it was James Lovelock’s 1979 book Gaia, and the Gaia Hypothesis, which Lovelock had developed with Lynn Margulis, that led to my happy re-acquaintance. The hypothesis identifies the Earth’s biosphere as a single, dynamic self-regulating body in which living organisms and inorganic material correspond to maintain the planet as a life supporting environment, with trees and other vegetation performing a critical role.

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James Lovelock.

Biosphere

LYNN MARGULIS.

jessicawallis.wordpress.com Her survival in humanity’s hands. EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG shutterstock.com

Jean-Claude’s heartfelt plea struck me as a personal appeal from Gaia herself, a plea from the feminine principle of creation to restore the beauty of her violated body. I am thrilled to be in her service and support Sir David Attenborough’s response to 4-year-old Otis Allen of Cardiff in the UK, who, concerned about the future of humanity, wrote to the venerable 94-year-old environmentalist asking whether humans would become extinct like the dinosaurs, to which Sir David replied: “The answer is that we need not do so, as long as we look after our planet properly.”

Arriving on the island via the bridge, guests and visitors are greeted by a plaque featuring the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay logo framed by planting, the group on the left of the image comprising the Malayan banyan (Ficus macrocarpa) in company with a cluster of Californian fan palms (Washingtonia filifera). These are echoed in the right of the picture by a further group of the same palm augmented with cassia (Cassia surattensis) and the Geiger tree (Cordia sebestena). Shrubs include bougainvillea (Bougainvillea glabra) and false eranthemums (Pseuderanthemum spp.), the whole planting arrangement arising from a foil of manicured lawn against a high wall crowned with frangipani (Plumeria spp.), supplemented with more Washingtonia palms in the background, their tall stems saluting the soaring height of the hotel.

Welcoming plaque

Approaching the security gate, the driveway passes between thick planting composed of trees under-planted with shrubs, including bougainvillea shown in the right of the image. These together with the security gate itself and notwithstanding the buildings under construction in the background across the bay - all coalescing to create a most pleasing and inviting picture.

Otis with Sir David’s response.- metro.co.uk

Relating that hopeful note of environmental stewardship to Bahrain Bay and the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay… Studying the landscape master plan of the hotel, the road and pathway network impressed me as symbolically representing the root system of a tree, providing support and nourishment vital for its well-bring.

Master Plan (FS-GSMaster Plan)

Security checkpoint

Passing through the security gate the driveway is lined on both sides with plantings similar to those which greeted guests previously, augmented with false eranthemums (Pseuderanthemum atropurpureum var “Tonga”); Indian privet (Clerodendrum inerme); oleander (Nerium oleander); Natal plum (Carissa grandiflora); and golden fig (Ficus aurea) among others. Behind these are groups of trees, namely the silk tree (Albizia lebbek) and the pink pui (Tabebuia rosea). A little way after the security gate a solitary gnarled, ancient specimen of the olive tree (Oleo europea) stands in a small circular traffic island, announcing the significance of the species in the landscape scheme as a whole.

I TREES

Circular traffic island and olive tree

A footpath roughly parallel to the main driveway and separated from it by a band of vegetation winds its way along the perimeter of the island and leads to a sitting area offering a vantage point from which to view the canal and wharf located across the bay. Trees line the footpath, examples being the olive tree, the baygrape (Cocoloba uvifera), which produces grape-like bunches of edible fruit, and the button mangrove (Conocarpus lancifolius), its branches extending over the path creating a tunnel effect. Shrubs include the Natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa), a native to Natal in South Africa - evergreen, it bears sweetly scented white flowers followed by edible fruit. Another shrub is the yellow oleander (Thevetia peruviana), its specific name indicating that it is native to Peru.

The forecourt of the hotel is set beneath a vast porte cochere, which complements and supports the architectural majesty of the structure. An aperture in the roof admits light, which, during high summer when the sun is directly overhead it may be imagined as bathing the water feature below in a beam of golden sunlight. The water feature in the form of a cascade is zero edged, the melody of its falling water welcoming guests and visitors alike - its presence amplifying the feeling of being welcomed. porte cochere

Cascade beneath the porte cochere

Winding footpath

Vantage point

Returning to the driveway and proceeding a little further on it divides into three arms, one leading to the underground car park, another leading to the main entrance of the hotel, the third being the exit driveway from the hotel, all three passing through rich vegetation. Approaching the hotel entrance is reminiscent of travelling along a pleasant English country lane, its relatively narrow width belying the grandeur of its destination.

Plants featured in the forecourt, apart from the extraordinary feature of preserved ancient olive trees actually occupying the water body, are cycads (Cycas revoluta) and zamias (Zamia furfuraceae), both unusual palm-like plants found in tropical, subtropical and warm, temperate regions. Before entering the lobby of the hotel mention must be made of the adjoining areas which contribute significantly to the symmetry and balance of the building’s footprint or layout. These are the courtyards flanking the forecourt and the car parks extending immediately beyond them. Despite the expanse of hard surfacing, these settle nicely in the landscape as woodland glades, so to say, complementing the idea of a forest setting.

North courtyard

Narrow lane to the hotel entrance

South courtyard

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South courtyard

Passing through the lobby to the grounds on the southwest side of the island, the route passes by an attractive and unusual desert garden and joins a narrow sinuous lane lined with caryota palms, reminiscent of a tropical forest track, before joining the main footpath which leads to the Azure Pool. The avenue just mentioned affords a particularly pleasing and soul satisfying experience.

South car park

Upon entering the lobby of the hotel, visitors are greeted by another botanical repast, as it were, for the preserved ancient olive trees encountered in the forecourt also feature here as well, creating a most unusual setting complemented with arrangements of beautiful tropical flowers, which include orchids. Olive trees also figure prominently on the balcony which offers views of the richness of the tree cover and landscaping, as well as the bay and cityscape beyond.

Desert garden

Caryota lane

The Azure Pool is a swimming pool situated in an oasislike setting with Bismarck palms (Bismarckia nobilis) located at intervals along its edge, this palm’s specific name reflecting the hotel’s nobility of character. The pool surround serves as a lounge area featuring palms, as well as ornamental trees, all contributing to the ambience of the scene, and complemented with super cabanas. These are out-of-the ordinary block-like structures considerably adding to the character and atmosphere of the pool setting.

Olive trees &tropical flowers

Azure Pool Olive tree on the balcony

Azure Pool Deck Area Rich tree cover

Passing through

From the Azure Pool and proceeding along the main footpath lateral paths provide access to the Family Pool. Echoing the serpentine character of the main footpath this pool is bordered by a broad deck defining three particular aspects: The northern aspect, located just beyond the Family Pool exhibits a children’s water play complex, featuring a dhow as its star, shaded by a tensile fabric umbrella. The water play area is complemented by similar structures offering shade for parents to keep an eye on their children at play. Other elements being a family dining area and sun lounges, all set against companionable planting.

I TREES The Family Pool Terrace with Sun Lounges and Broad Curving Steps Providing Access to the Oval Terrace

Northern Aspect of the Family Pool Area

Family Pool with its Outer Edge as a Wide Convex Arc

Northern Aspect of the Family Pool Area

The central aspect, a terrace in the shape of an ellipse, with an eye-like area of simulated grass at its centre framed by a pair of Washingtonia palms, is reached by a flight of wide curving steps rising from the broad Family Pool deck. Shade structures nestle among the mixed planting lining the brow of the terrace. These serve as a backdrop to the Family Pool area, the outer edge of which forming a wide convex arc in the form of a wall representing a backdrop to planting punctuated with Washingtonia palms under-planted with shrubs bordered by a serpentine pathway defining the edge of the beach. The gently sloping beach is partially embraced and protected by groynes or breakwaters, their palms and other plants echoing the backdrop to the Family Pool, the whole scene conveying a sense of comfort and seclusion.

The Beach with an Exclusive Dining Area and Sun Lounges.

View of the Protective Groin on the North Side of the Beach

The southern aspect of the Family Pool deck is occupied by shade structures formed of tensile fabric set amongst planting set off by the broad expanse of the swimming pool deck.

Elliptical Terrace with simulated Turf framed by Washingtonia Palms

View of Southern Aspect of the Family Pool Area.

Family Pool Shade Structure Framed by large pots planted with Indian fig trees

Leaving the Family Pool and beach area via its southern aspect, the passage passes between two block-like structures constituting comfort rooms, these reflecting the same architectural style and extraordinary appeal as the cabanas encountered at the Azure Pool.

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Lateral Pathway Passing Through a Broad Expanse of Lawn Prior to Re-joining the Main Pathway and Continuing to the Back of House Area. Passage Between the Comfort Rooms

Continuing along the main pathway it wends its way beneath the friendly canopies of trees under-planted with evergreen shrubs, including the corkscrew pine (Pandanus utilis), all complemented with building facades reflecting similar blocklike characteristics noted in the cabanas of the Azure Pool and the comfort rooms previously referenced. Altogether, this combination of structures and vegetation affords a satisfying experience, not only visually, but nourishing to the soul as well.

Main Footpath Passing Beneath the Friendly Canopies of Trees

Proceeding along the main pathway lateral paths branch off to the interior of the gardens, while the main route carries on to a terrace overlooking the water taxi jetty. Located directly opposite the hotel, the terrace represents an ideal place to take memorable personal photographs, with the landscaping and façade of the hotel presenting a magnificent backdrop.

Water Taxi Jetty View of the Hotel from the Terrace

One of the lateral paths extends in a wide arc through a broad expanse of lawn, surrounded by rich planting, before re-joining the main pathway which continues to the back of house area and the services road to the bridge, where the tour of the gardens began.

The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay represents the heart of an ongoing development project embracing the whole of the Bahrain Bay area. The iconic structures which mark the bay as a singular location, are situated in perfect harmony and balance with the plantings out of which they emerge. Looking across the bay’s development with the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay as the focal point, the relationship between architecture and the landscape is most engaging; there is an aliveness and beauty about the scene reflecting the love and commitment expressed in its conception and creation. As noted at the beginning, the Four Seasons’ logo is a tree and, symbolically speaking, the hotel itself could be described as a tree - the centre from which the bay’s development is evolving, rather like certain forests in India which have grown from a single tree. The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, the Majestic Centre from which the Bahrain Bay Development is Evolving.

Considering the landscaping of the Four Seasons Hotel and Bahrain Bay from a national perspective, it’s entirely in keeping with the Kingdom of Bahrain’s ‘Forever Green Campaign’ inspired by HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, under the patronage of HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty. Similar initiatives are being undertaken by governments and private concerns throughout the Middle East, all subscribing to a universal movement aiming to reverse or at least arrest global heating, as James Lovelock describes the issue. The more committed we all become to planting more trees, the better will be the assurance that humanity will survive for the benefit of youngsters like deep thinking 4-yearold Otis in Cardiff and future generations.

Concluding with a reference to the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Forever Green Campaign, it may be likened to the awakening of the spirit of Bahrain and the county’s rebirth as the garden of the Arabia Gulf.

I RESORT

NESTLED IN PLACE With sustainable design at its core, the New World Phu Quoc Resort is a showpiece of Vietnam’s tourism industry

Located in the southwest side of the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc, New World Phu Quoc Resort enjoys an unobstructed view of Kem Beach making the resort one of the most popular destinations for tourists. The resort offers 375 villas each equipped with a private swimming pool. There is also a wide range of activities available for guests with the 120m long swimming pool as the star attraction.

Phu Quoc is a destination of distinct landscapes and the brief was to create a new destination for Phu Quoc rooted in both context and culture. The unique land-culture philosophy in landscape design plays a pivotal role in creating a destination and addressing the brief with a design rooted in culture and context. At the macro scale, zoning of spaces and

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activities is inspired by the unique coastal landscape of Phu Quoc Island where palm groves, lagoons and dunes embellish the domain between the mountain and the sea portraying gradation of the natural landscape. At the micro scale, delicate elements derived from the rich cultural and productive landscape of the traditional fish sauce manufacturing and pepper farming industries are interpreted and adopted in forms of pavilions, bridges, and lighting bollards. Space planning of the resort focuses on ease of legibility and robust use of spaces while reflecting the coastal landscape character in the spatial zoning. The Lagoon Zone serves as the key orienting feature where it is further differentiated into passive and active parts according to the water activities proposed. Green fingers

I RESORT

at the Dune Zone are provided to connect villa clusters whereby guests can enjoy the landscape passageway as much as any outdoor landscape area. The area of hardscape was used only where necessary leaving the rest of the areas as verdant as possible. This helps in bringing a feeling of calmness and softness to the entire development. Nature in the form of water features, trees and gardens became key elements and the main driver of guest experiences. The landscape experience begins at the ceremonial entry to the lobby building. A ramp driveway with terraced gardens on both sides frames a grand arrival gesture terminating at the arrival plaza with the central reflective pool and water gardens.

The exploration of landscape then continues through the Lagoon Zone acting as the central feature of the entire resort providing both passive and active enjoyments of the one-of-a-kind resort water experience. The Green Lagoon starts at the rear of the lobby building with cascading water features and subsequently joins with the water planting corridor where a series of landscape paths, decks and platforms provide ideal places for passive activities and viewing. In contrast to the tranquil Green Lagoon, the Blue Lagoon displays an energetic and exciting ambience for active activities. The 120m long infinity-edged swimming pool houses the lap pool with floating islands, water play zones, pool bar and sun decks

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creating leisure poolside places for family gatherings and water activities. The infinity edge of this dramatic pool then merges with the sea, extending the landscape beyond, only interrupted by occasional loungers along the white magical sands of Kem beach. The villa landscapes are distinct with themes inspired by the palm groves, lagoon and dunes through colour, material and planting palette. The intricate network of green fingers between the villa clusters with characters emulating coastal dune landscape form the village greens as one of the key public activity areas within the resort. From the operator’s perspective, the design is very simple using local materials which are easy to maintain and replace when necessary. All the vegetation is local coastal vegetation like palm and used in their most natural form to reduce major maintenance work like continuous pruning. Moreover, a lot of flexible open green spaces are incorporated in the design so they could be used in multiple ways helping in operation. Water features are always difficult to maintain and taking this into account the water features are designed to perform specific roles. From a guest’s perspective, the design is practical in two ways, firstly legibility and ease of wayfinding and secondly use of material, both hard and soft.

The design does incorporate sustainability aspects in its implementation. Minimum cut and fill was done during construction and whatever additional material was excavated was used on site in the form of undulating green dune landscape. Though it is a dense development, the landscape design was instrumental in bringing as much green as possible and reducing the use of hardscape. Local vegetation was used in the design and all the water for irrigation came from treated grey water. Feature lagoons were introduced in the design not only as visual features but also as part of water retention. Furthermore, it helped to reduce the ambient temperature in and around the villa clusters.

Project name: New World Phu Quoc Resort Location of the project: Phu Quoc, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam Landscape Architect: One Landscape Design Limited Date of completion: May 2021 Developer/ Investor: Sun Group Principal Architect (company): Darkhorse Architecture Principal Interior Designer (company): Studio HBA

Smart Sites

Towards a more integrated and robust neighbourhood

Designed by: Afaf Majeed Alajaimi, Sara Zamel, and Marah Ababneh Supervised by: Prof. Anne Gharaibeh, TA. Samaa Marji The College of Architecture and Design Jordan University of Science and Technology Irbid is in Jordan’s northwestern region, it’s city boundaries are 30 km2, with residential areas accounting for nearly 75 percent of the total area. However, Urban Green Spaces (UGS) account for only about 1% of the total city area. This project is focused on a potential downtown space that has been utilized as a roundabout (known as Ali Khulqi Al-Sharaireh Roundabout or Large Saal Roundabout) with very little traffic. It is located in the eastern historic areas of Irbid’s downtown and has been a well-known location for many generations, containing residential villas for old merchants, private doctors, attorneys, and engineers who had their enterprises downtown from the 1920s until the 1980s. Many of these villas were later converted into

multi-story residential and mixed-use structures. Several private upholstery and glazing shops sprouted in this neighborhood in the early noughties, transforming it into a crafts district. People of all ages and with varying needs lived there. However, subsequent recessions left many people unemployed. One of the most important things this area needs, along with UGS and better health, is jobs for its residents. The present crafts and commercial uses in this area are starting to dwindle because of the emergence of new shopping malls and shopping streets on the city’s periphery. The downtown area is suffering due to limited working hours and subsequently the area is slowly losing its identity, liveliness, and business. In the past 10 years, the adjacent Al-Hashimi street has drawn people from outside the neighbourhood into its corridor, creating an enormous and prosperous business shooting from the center out towards the east. The roundabout two blocks away is no exception, it has become the back alley for the street. Regardless of the business, the local residents have no means of recreational activities despite the large space at its center. This roundabout has no trees and does not contribute to the identity of the place besides its bare existence. Residents are not interacting with their environment, and so it stays as a general space, not a defined place in their memories.

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This project aims to create a reason for people to return to the site and nourish it so that it can be transformed into a place. It is also focused on creating employment opportunities, better living environments, and a more climate resilient solutions. The project focuses on turning the existing area into a healthy, smart and livable environment where people can live, work and interact. A place where you can go and enjoy peaceful activities that have a variety of options. A place that creates a sanctuary and a clean environment for its residents.

SMART HEALTHY LIFESTYLE It’s well documented that a healthy lifestyle gives us physical and mental well-being, as well as good social connections. It includes a clean environment, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. Smart sites are forward-thinking sites that are being developed to support the future of urban livability, mobility, and connectivity. It enhances users’ experience through technology and digital strategic plans (Figure 1).

FIGURE 2: THE MONTAGE OF IDEAS

The main concept focused on four pillars; the green spaces with trees and urban agriculture, the on-ground circulation that provides accessibility to all parts, the off-land infinity smart and interactive path, and the social activities for all age groups. The purpose is to provide a supportive engine for enhancing human health and life (psychology and physiology) (Figure 3). The two main physical components of this design are the infinity track and the rainwater collectors (Figure 3).

Figure 2: Social spaces, ground circulation, infinity path, and green areas.

I THE TRACK

Figure 4: The infinity track and the rain water collectors. Figure 5: The Master Plan

The overall design created an integrated zone with activities, job opportunities, and a healthy lifestyle (Figures 10—12). It’s smart and climate change resilient and it’s hoped that the design will attract people from neighboring areas, as well as serve its existing residents. In turn the new design will enrich the overall identity of the neighborhood.

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The track (infinity track) will unite spaces and segregate them, providing an active passageway that circulates all activities. The path is suitable for walking, biking, and exercising. It is also interactive where energy is generated from the continued stepping. Energy is used elsewhere in the project to create hydro farms and generate electricity for lighting as well. Stepping into the path will activate lights at night. The smart track provides a self-energized site by stepping on the smart cells in the pavement (the kinetic energy of visitors’ footsteps is being converted into electricity; their weight causes electromagnetic induction generators to vertically displace, which results in a rotatory motion that generates off-grid electricity). The electricity that is produced can be used for (lighting the site, operating elevators and saving electrical energy, etc.). The track is composed of lanes designated for walking, running, and cycling (Figure5).

VERTICAL GARDEN AND RAIN COLLECTORS The vertical garden is one of the most important elements in the project. It is an income generator for the neighborhood. It provides jobs for the locals, who may work in the hydroponic agriculture inside the buildings (Figure 5).

Figure 7: Vertical farms and hydroponic agriculture It is a concept that encourages the public to eat more organic food, which affects their general health. They can take a walk inside the place and pick vegetables and fruits by themselves. The shelves that are used for planting can also be used to grow their favorite products by renting space.

It is a concept that encourages the public to eat more organic food, which affects their general health. They can take a walk inside the place and pick vegetables and fruits by themselves. The shelves that are used for planting can also be used to grow their favorite products by renting space. The ground floor has various services. Harvested products are sold on this floor. It has a café and a rest area. People may check out their purchases using self-service. Shading structures act as water collectors too (Figure 6). It gives the users a special experience with the sun shading during the day. At night, the structure lights up with interactive lights and attracts people. We used recycled plastic as the main material. The structure

contains a part for vertical circulation (the cone shape), where people can move between floors easily. In this part, the material is stainlesssteel, which is a sustainable material. The structure exists in different layers, which gives the connectivity within the site and also gives the users spatial experiences. UPHOLSTERY WORKSHOPS Since the site is known for its upholstery shops, we created a whole block that includes workshops and galleries of upholstery (Figure 8). Technology is introduced, creating smart loading where furniture is being loaded on a track. The weight of the loaded furniture generates energy for the zone to be used in lighting and machinery workshops.

Figure 9: Upholstery workshops and gallery.

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THE SOCIAL ZONE The social zone forms the heart of this project. It is accessible from all directions and has active and passive uses for all age groups and interests. It has two major climbing walls, one reaching 15 meters high and the other 6 meters high with climbing structures that support our vision for a healthy lifestyle; an interactive water features that goes horizontally and vertically where people can interact; interactive games where kids can play; it also forms an open sitting area where people can socialize and gather (Figure 9).

Figure 10: active and social outdoor spaces.

THE BLUE ZONE The blue zone area is a five-floor gym that can be accessed from the infinity track or from the street pavement. It has a meditation floor, machine rooms, aerobics rooms, and other activities such as boxing, swimming (on the roof), squash, café, and terraces. It is surrounded by green areas, and it overlooks the urban green spaces at the neighborhood center (Figure 10).

Figure 11: The blue zone; showing the gym and its activities.

Figure 12: The Smart Drop-Off Unit Located At Different Zones In the Site.

Figure 13: Site Zoning.

Figure 14: Ground Floor Plan

Figure 15: The blue zone

Figure 16: The track reaching to the gym building.

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I URBAN WALKWAYS

CHINA’S URBAN COMMUNITIES Wangjing Walk is one of Beijing’s most popular urban walkways

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The Wangjing Walk Urban Revitalization project redefined the street, activated public space, and transformed an abandoned property into a vivid contemporary district on the corner of Beijing’s metropolitan area. Originally developed in the late 1990s, the outdated infrastructure within this 13-acre street block area had been neglected and the vast hardscape catered to the vehicle, creating an unappealing environment for pedestrians. After recognizing the need to revitalize this densely-populated area comprised of a diverse demographic, the project was initiated in 2017 by a partnership between a private development company known as VANKE and the government. Over a four-year period, a new 6-acre public space was developed, turning the district into an inviting urban landscape that was welcomed by the district’s residents and businesses.

public space known to the Wangjing District. It differs from the typical orthogonal urban fabric of Beijing, with pockets of public land that are disconnected, abandoned, and leftover as the city rapidly expanded. The district is comprised of large-scale residential towers, office buildings, hotels, and retail spaces with imposing architectural features. Over the years, the residential towers became disconnected from the public landscape. As the retail environment matured and available parking outgrew demand, the street was dominated by vehicle parking and congestion. The hardscape environment created areas inundated with stormwater after heavy rains, discouraging pedestrian use and activity. These factors attributed to an overall unpleasant experience and resulted in retail sales plummeting with a continuing loss of customers.

SITE HISTORY | LEFTOVER SPACES AND VEHICLE DOMINATION The fast-paced development of high rise buildings built in the early 2000s created a vehicular dominated streetscape and fragmented

I URBAN WALKWAYS VISION | AN INTERCONNECTED PLACE FOR EVERYONE A comprehensive urban landscape plan was initiated by the developer VANKE and supported by the government, as they had a mutual vision to create an economically viable and environmentally sustainable place for all to enjoy. Beyond the complex site conditions, the design team recognized the immense diversity amongst its users. The surrounding area was bustling with workers commuting to their offices, people shopping in the retail establishments, and residents traversing from their homes. The majority of residents originated from Korea, Japan, Germany, and other cities of China with incomes of all levels. This wide diversity of people, culture, and activity led to the concept to create a space that not only bound the adjacent land uses, but also the people that were a part of it. The site conditions, surrounding context, and diverse population inspired a design that connects people to landscape, art, and community. The concept is anchored in three major spaces of the project: the streetscape, an urban plaza, and a garden. PEOPLE AND URBAN EVOLUTION Although the project reconciled several issues, perhaps the most triumphant outcome is its ability to inspire diverse groups of users to engage with the urban landscape. Its success was also accentuated during the pandemic, providing an opportunity to recreate and interact safely within an urban space surrounded by a dense population. Additional retail establishments have flocked to the popular area and land value of both commercial and residential properties has substantially increased. Careful planning to mitigate construction impacts to the existing businesses and residents during and after construction preserved the district’s diverse character, while the final design accentuated its attributes. As the area’s economic stability and quality of life has increased, a larger movement to incorporate walkable, dynamic, and sustainable landscapes continues. A half mile street redesign is anticipated to begin construction soon with plans to integrate the design concept throughout the district over the next few years. Designed by Instinct Fabrication

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I FOUNTAIN

Why you need a water feature in every design Ritesh Khetia of Crystal Fountains gives us his top tips to consider before installing a water feature in your project We are asked almost every day about the pros and cons of having a water feature incorporated into your landscape design. Here are my top tips based on client feedback. Bear in mind that every project is unique and warrants a slightly different response: How much is it going to cost to build my water feature? The cost is based on the factors that go into the construction of a water feature that can be split into two buckets: MEP Installation and Civil Works. MEP, or Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing includes all specialist water feature equipment; nozzles, lighting and controls and non-specialist equipment like pumps, filtration, piping and cabling. Civil works include the cost

to build the equipment room, water feature structure, water-proofing and architectural finishes. Both of these factors are taken into consideration as we build out the cost of a water feature. How much is the yearly maintenance cost? Maintenance costs are calculated based on the usage of power, water and consumables like chemicals to keep your water feature clean. All too often, spare parts and cost of labour are also missed in this costing, so don’t forget to include those. What is an interactive fountain? We define an interactive water feature or fountain as one that can be walked on and jumped on all over. For

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example, an interactive fountain is a splash-pad. Think about kids running through jets of spraying water on a hot and sunny day, squealing with delight and joy. That’s an interactive feature. Top tip: these features need special considerations during the design phase that include UV filtration to clean water, having a maximum water turnover rate of 30 minutes and ensuring all nozzles are finger and toe entrapment friendly.

feature to be able to tune in and precisely match the Kelvin temperature of the landscape lighting, the ideal lighting solution is possible. We have over 50 years of experience integrating lighting into water features installations, so lean on us to find how to create the exact look that you’re looking for. Our WATERlab™ simulations help our customers see what a feature can look like with all the lighting options, before the design is finalized.

Our project is already under construction and we just need to include a fountain. Can you make this happen at short notice? While we pride ourselves in delivering quality outcomes within tight timelines, incorporating a fountain into your project should never be an afterthought. Architectural water features are like icebergs; there is a lot that goes into building aesthetically pleasing and safe water features than what meets the eye. This is where we excel at collaboration to bring your vision to life.

Our cost consultants told us this fountain would be in the 100k range - can you work with that budget? (when in fact what they are looking for is closer to 1 million) Costing is the one area that is the most misunderstood. The construction of any water feature is an iterative process that should ideally commence during the concept design phase of a project, and then needs fine tuning at later stages. Correctly costing the MEP and Civil Works that includes the specialist water feature equipment, is where to start. Then there are the multiple levels of overheads and profits to be applied to the base costs by the specialist water feature contractor, the general contractor, and any other entity in between. This comprises the total budget that the client sees and needs to be prepared to pay, and considerations to make sure you have a solid budget to feel confident about. As questions like these are top-of-mind for you and our clients, these answers allow for good projects to become great, and great projects to become iconic as we saw in last week’s email about White Square. It’s all possible, and you too can have wildly successful projects that are experienced and enjoyed by thousands, garnering the praise of your colleagues, and your competition. I can say this because our team has seen it over and over again ... and now it’s your turn.

How large is the equipment room? In other words, how many parking spaces do we need to remove from the property? So often the equipment room is overlooked and yet, it is one of the important aspects of a water feature — think of all that you can’t see of that underbelly of an iceberg. Even if all you have is a conceptual sketch, book a call and I will help you approximate the size for your equipment room. Do you need a lighting designer also? The illumination of a fountain at dusk breathes life into what may be an otherwise ordinary display. Whether you are looking to make a bold statement by incorporating RGBACL lighting to your project, or want your water

I URBAN DEVELOPMENT

ESPAÇO UNISINOS A new campus in Porto Alegre has changed the urban dynamics of the residential area where it was integrated, with a fresh architectural image and an inviting composition of open spaces. By: Jimena Martignoni

This urban campus was commissioned by the Universidade do Vale do Rio do Sinos, a traditional Brazilian university run by the Jesuits and known to locals as “Unisinos”; the plan includes an educational building, a theatre, commercial and parking spaces but is the large semi-public terraces, walking areas and courtyards what has meant a novel and appealing addition to the area. Originally, the project was the result of a close competition which invited five architectural offices in Porto Alegre and which anticipated the vacant space adjacent to a Jesuit school as the proposed site. After AT Arquitetura was selected as the winning team, the university’s authorities changed the site location to another vacant larger site, right in front of the school and a kindergarten which would be eventually renovated.

One of the main conditions for the new project was that of preserving the open views from the school and to get the most out of the building land, according to the permitted floor area ratio and heights. The result is the location of an eight-story educational building in one corner of the site and receded from the street, and a quite compact project extending along the rest of the site. Comprising commercial spaces, walking areas and terraces, an access esplanade and a semi-buried courtyard, the amalgamation of spaces achieves an aura of openness and balance. Retail stores and small cafes face a walking semi-public space which is half-covered by a 7 meter-high pergola; adjacently, a large wooden terrace overlooks a large and luxuriant private garden. The tree crowns appear now as part of the new terraces, providing the perfect natural

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environment for the many students and visitors that gather and sit around in the sunlight, making use of the customdesigned outdoor furniture. In the main façade, avoiding a retail-related image, the project incorporated a screening green wall which extends along 80 meters and 11 meter high, exhibiting a twocolored composition of native plants (Cuphea gracilis and Tradescantia). Behind, another semi-roofed linear area offers more spaces for sitting and relaxing. The entire project adapts to the change elevation of the street, creating different planes and stepped terraces. At street level, a large access esplanade draws people to any of the spaces which make up the educational-cultural compound. At one side, a semi-buried courtyard provides sunlight to the underground spaces, the library and a student

lounge. However, the most interesting use of this sunken open space is that of an outdoor theater; connected to the auditorium’s stage by a removable 14 meter-wide door, it offers an ideal setting for open-air performances. The access esplanade then becomes a balcony-like public space. The formal auditorium has a total indoor capacity of 470 seats. Appearing in the architectural composition as a separate volume, the theater has an independent access and a green roof which can be appreciated from the upper floors, mingling with the newly designed landscape of the street. This roof is completely planted with boldo (Peumus boldus), an aromatic indigenous plant which grows profusely in Porto Alegre. The project was required to include 1,000 parking spaces which were built in two underground levels and two above the street, using the resulting diversity of planes in favor of the creation of the semi-public terraces. In order to provide a pedestrian connection for those arriving by bus and to connect the university’s underground parking with the existing school, across the street, a footbridge of stylized architectonic lines spans the existing avenue. Now an urban landmark in one of the greenest residential neighborhoods of Porto Alegre, the Unisinos educational compound has also become a great place for recreation, leisure and cultural activities and connections. Location: Porto Alegre, Brazil Date of Completion: 2018 Project Size: 56,000 m2 Designers: AT Arquitetura Project Managers: Andre Detanico, Tarso Carneiro, Mauricio Ceolin Landscape Plan: Landscape Sul Lighting Plan: Cristina Maluf Client: Universidade do Vale do Rio do Sinos / Associação Padre Antonio Vieira Photography: Marcelo Donadussi

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I Book review

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Books of interest The book “REFLECTIONS IN THE LANDSCAPE” was recently published by Editorial Arquine, a prestigious Mexico-based publishing house specializing in architecture and design, and written by Jimena Martignoni, Argentinean writer and curator of urban and landscape design projects in Latin America and a regular contributor to Landscape Middle East Magazine. The book delves into the most recent works of Chilean landscape designer Teresa Moller who was awarded with the 2020 Global Award for Sustainable Architecture, sponsored by UNESCO, and included as one of the fifty most important landscape designers worldwide in the book “250 Things a Landscape Architect Should Know” (Ed. Birkhäuser). Unlike other books that list and describe projects, for “Reflections in the landscape” Jimena Martignoni proposes ten subjects, through which is possible a poetic exploration of landscape design. With this perspective and by means of many conversations with Teresa Moller about these subjects —Earth, Water, Trees, Fruits, Stone, Trails, Signs, Essence... among others— are portrayed some of the most interesting projects of this celebrated designer, such as the 2016 Venice Biennale, the 2017 International Garden Exhibition of Berlin, the gardens in Shanghai and of course many projects in Chile like the unforgettable oceanscapes of Punta Pite. Together, the scope of projects and the stories behind them, which make up the work of Teresa Moller, offer a legacy for landscape designers and lovers. The book is written both in Spanish and English and has 268 pages. A series of full-size images with descriptive captions marks out a differentiation between the two languages. The book is now available in the webpage of “Editorial Arquine”.

Publisher: Arquine Texts: Jimena Martignoni Size: 14 x 21 cm Pages: 268 Spanish/English

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The First Specialised Landscape Magazine in the Middle East

4/21/2022 10:25:49 PM

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Dr. Giancarlo Mangone Principal SYMBIOSIS: SUSTAINABLE DESIGN AND CONSULTING

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STATUS : NEW TENDER TRADE CATEGORY : AGRICULTURAL, LANDSCAPING AND IRRIGATION

NEW & CURRENT PROJECTS Tender Name

Description

Client

Region

Tender Cost (USD)

Post Date

Closing Date

Irrigation System

Laying of Irrigation System for Road (From Al Jama Roundabout to Al Salam Roundabout) Side Plantation in Welayat Al Buraimi.

Buraimi Governor Office (Oman)

Oman

6/13/2022

7/21/2022

Landscape & Irrigation Networks

Operation and Maintenance of Landscape, Irrigation and Water Feature Facilities.

Qatar Energy (Qatar Petroleum)

Qatar

137

3/14/2022

7/17/2022

Landscape & Irrigation System

Provision of Landscape & Irrigation System.

Dubai Municipality (Published on eSupply Portal)

Dubai

6/9/2022

7/5/2022

Irrigation Main Network

Supply of Irrigation Main Network.

Dubai Municipality (Published on eSupply Portal)

Dubai

6/9/2022

7/5/2022

Agricultural Works & Maintenance

Agricultural Works with Maintenance.

Ministry of Electricity & Water (Kuwait)

Kuwait

6/7/2022

7/5/2022

Landscape & Irrigation System

Supply of Landscape & Irrigation System.

Dubai Municipality (Published on eSupply Portal)

Dubai

6/9/2022

6/28/2022

Agriculture, Landscaping & Irrigation Maintenance

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

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Kuwait

3333

6/7/2022

6/26/2022

Plant & Irrigation System Maintenance

Maintenance of Plant & Irrigation System at Al Nahda Interchange with Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Road.

Dubai Municipality (Published on eSupply Portal)

Dubai

6/10/2022

6/22/2022

Plant & Irrigation System Maintenance

Maintenance of Plant & Irrigation System at Old and New Rabat Street.

Dubai Municipality (Published on eSupply Portal)

Dubai

6/10/2022

6/22/2022

Plant & Irrigation System Maintenance

Maintenance Plant & Irrigation System.

Dubai Municipality (Published on eSupply Portal)

Dubai

6/9/2022

6/21/2022

Research Programs

Supplying the Needs of Research Programs to the Vegetable Research Department for the 2022 Season.

Ministry of Agricultural, Fisheries & Water Resources (Oman)

Oman

6/13/2022

6/19/2022

Greenhouse Tools & Equipment

Supply of Greenhouse Tools and Equipment.

Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (Egypt)

Egypt

6/10/2022

6/19/2022

Aesthetic Agricultures Maintenance

Execution, Development and Maintenance of Aesthetic Agricultures in the Ninth Region

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Kuwait

3333

6/8/2022

6/19/2022

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Procurement of Manual Irrigation System to Falougha and Irrigation Fitting Part.

Food & Agriculture Organization (Lebanon)

Lebanon

6/9/2022

6/17/2022

Landscape Maintenance

Provision of Landscape Maintenance and Irrigation Services.

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Qatar

687

5/26/2022

6/16/2022

Soft Landscaping Works O&M

Maintenance and Operation of Soft Landscaping Works, Irrigation System and Play Areas.

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Bahrain

132

5/23/2022

6/15/2022

Gardens Maintenance

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

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Egypt

3/23/2022

4/12/2022

Trees & Shrubs

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

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Saudi Arabia

400

3/14/2022

4/7/2022

Sub-Irrigation Network

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

Madinah Municipality (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

3/25/2022

4/6/2022

Agriculture, Landscaping & Irrigation Maintenance

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

Kuwait University

Kuwait

3333

2/8/2022

3/13/2022

Aesthetic Agricultures Maintenance

Execution, Development and Maintenance of Aesthetic Agricultures.

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

Kuwait

3333

12/14/2021

3/13/2022

Irrigation Maintenance

Maintenance and Irrigation of Gardens and Parks South of Taif.

Taif Secretariat (Saudi Arabia)

Saudi Arabia

933

12/8/2021

1/10/2022

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