middle east
May 2016
palmeralandscapes
palmeralandscapes
@palmeralandscapes
@palmeraqa
Visit 25Ways.RainBird.com for more water-saving products, tips and resources.
Controlling your system from any device, anywhere. That’s intelligent.
The IQ™ Platform—another water-saving technology from Rain Bird. As water conservation becomes increasingly critical, Rain Bird is leading the charge to develop water-saving irrigation products. One example is Rain Bird IQ-Cloud v3.0, which allows you to remotely manage commercial irrigation from any web-enabled device. With email alerts to help you correct problems faster and automatic weather-based adjustments that prevent overwatering, it’s one more way we help you save water. Learn more at RainBird.com/IQ.
2
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
25 WA
EDITOR’S NOTE
I
n this issue, we profile Dubai based company, Easigrass who specialise in the production and placement of artificial grass. Turn to page 18 to learn more
middle east
about the company’s portfolio and clients that they have worked with since its
may 2016
inception. These include nightlife venues The Irish Village, Zero Gravity and waterpark, Wild Wadi. We also look at how Travertine tiles are changing the
landscape of gardens on page 36. Over on page 48, we take a look at the Energy, Climate and Environmental Park in Denmark which focuses on energy production, water purification, resource recycling and climate management. The idea behind the design was to establish a public, recreational landscape that also has an educational purpose. We discover
cover option_1.indd 1
4/30/16 12:02 PM
the park’s ambitious model for how to best take care of Earth, and the ways it is helping to promote a green message by putting it into practice through design. Other major design firms that are making their mark include KLA Landscape Architects who have designed one of the Middle East’s largest recreational projects: The Jeddah North Corniche. This project is the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia and stretches 12km in length and was created on the basis of designing a space which connects people to waterfront lands and waters that are not currently accessible. Go to page 22 for more. In order for major companies around the globe to think creatively, creative work spaces are needed. We look at how Bjarke Ingels at BIG and Thomas Heatherwick at Heatherwick Studio are rethinking office spaces on page 30.
John Hampton
The opinions and views contained in the articles in this publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the publishers. The publishers cannot be held liable for any mistake or omission enclosed in the publication.
For free subscription and to view the magazine please visit our website:
www.landscape-me.com
The First Specialised Landscape magazine in the Middle East
Our magazine is available in app store and google play, search under Landscape Middle East. Published by:
MEMedia Publishing FZ LLC IMPZ PO Box 485005, Dubai, UAE Telephone: +971 4 4470927 Fax: +971 4 4470928
I Managing Partner: Z iad Maarouf Amine I Copy Editor: John Hampton I Sales Manager: Boushra Dinnawi I Administrative Assistance: Sarry Gan I Art Director: Ramon Andaya I Contributors: Ben Bloomfield, Dietmar Kamphans, Cath Layton, Laetitia Tregoning, Jimena Martignoni, Julian Weyer I Printed by: Al Nisr Publishing LLC I Webmaster: www.pdinventive.com
Landscape is distributed free of charge in KSA, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Eqypt, and Lebanon by Emirates Post UAE
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
1
30
Contents May 2016 - Issue 107
18 22 30 36 40 48
The grass is greener Jeddah North Corniche Rethinking office space Standing the test of time Urban Healing Making a change
36 40
48 2
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
3
News & Events Flowpoint, part of the UltraScape Mortar Paving System available from Instarmac, has been specified, and used, to grout 9,000m² of granite stone at MBR City in Dubai.
Flowpoint paves the most Luxurious Place on Earth
M
BR (Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum) City in Dubai is the definition of luxury. The 45 million square feet development brings together striking villas and mansions, beaches, crystal lagoons and beautiful architecture. MBR City - District One is home to flagship retailers, fine dining, 600 acres of park lands, 8km of shared cycling tracks and 90 acres of crystal lagoons - the first of its kind and largest in the world. MBR City is the epitome of luxurious living and so it was crucial that the materials used
to build this development were aesthetically pleasing. Flowpoint Smooth, supplied by Instarmac's partner in Dubai, Tanseeq LLC, was specified to grout 9,000m² of granite stone throughout MBR City. It was also used to grout a number of roundabouts throughout District One. Flowpoint Smooth is a flowable grout which allows for large areas of paving to be grouted quickly. What's more, Flowpoint Smooth can receive foot traffic in 1 hour and vehicular traffic in just 4 hours - essential for sites such as this one.
Construction continued whilst the paving was installed with a number of heavy goods vehicles travelling across the paved area each day demonstrating Flowpoint Smooth's exceptional capabilities in areas of heavy traffic with vehicles turning frequently. Flowpoint Smooth is available in 2 colours - Charcoal and Natural Grey - the latter was used on this project to compliment the granite stone. Flowpoint Smooth is available in Dubai through Tanseeq LLC. To contact Tanseeq please call +971 (04) 361 7199 or visit www. tanseeqllc.com.
New Rain Bird IQ™ platform expands to offer mobile-compatible options Irrigation professionals can now use IQ to manage systems from smartphone or tablet
R
ain Bird Corporation announces that its industry-leading IQ Platform can now be used with smartphones and tablets to meet demand for mobile-compatible water management tools. The new IQ Platform will be demonstrated last 2015 Irrigation Show & Education Conference. Irrigation professionals who manage systems for homeowners’ associations, school districts or municipal properties can now manage those same systems on the go from their smartphones and tablets using IQ-Cloud v. 3.0. There are no recurring annual fees to use IQ-Cloud. IQCloud access can be shared with authorized personnel who perform maintenance and to alert them to problems in the field. “Today, our customers expect easy-to-use tools that give them access to their irrigation systems on their mobile devices,” said Sean Azad, product manager for Rain Bird’s commercial division.. “It’s not only convenient and saves them time, but also allows for greater control
4
over schedules to maximize water savings. Because we want everyone to manage water more efficiently, there are no annual fees with IQ-Cloud. We have made it really easy for customers to set up and start using it.” For organizations with strict IT security protocols, such as military bases, financial institutions or government properties, IQEnterprise v. 3.0 allows implementation of IQ-Cloud on private servers. Current IQ users can continue to use IQ-Desktop v. 3.0 or can easily upgrade to IQ-Cloud or IQ-Enterprise for mobile compatibility. Weather-based management is quickly becoming a necessity in certain parts of the world and is built into the IQ Platform. IQ will automatically adjust schedules based on weather data and apply water only when the landscape needs it. Further, by implementing IQ’s Flow Watch™ feature, users have added security that the system will monitor flow conditions and react appropriately to leaks and pipe breaks.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
ABOUT RAIN BIRD Based in Azusa, Calif., Rain Bird Corporation is the world’s leading manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services. Since its beginnings in 1933, Rain Bird has offered the industry’s broadest range of irrigation products for farms, golf courses, sports arenas, commercial developments and homes in more than 130 countries around the globe. Rain Bird has been awarded more than 450 patents worldwide, including the first in 1935 for the impact sprinkler. Rain Bird and The Intelligent Use of Water™ are about using water wisely. Its commitment extends beyond products to education, training and services for the industry and the community. Rain Bird maintains state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in the United States, China, and Mexico.
Your one stop shop for live, moss and replica
PLANTWALLS
live plantwall
mosswall
Call us on +971 4 339 0648 for more information on our wide range of Plantwalls. Find out how you can turn unused, unprofitable interior and exterior areas into productive and income producing space - a real winning solution!
replica interior
replica exterior
replica interior
replica exterior
5 www.planters.ae
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
News & Events The outdoor environment and public spaces continue to be integral parts of the UAE’s vibrant society, fuelling the growth of the outdoor design and landscaping sector. The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council has developed the Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual to strategically outline a blueprint for building a world-class outdoor community in the emirate to enhance the standard of living of its people. According to the Manual, public spaces consist of all outdoor areas that are physically or visually accessible regardless of ownership and are organized into four categories; namely, parks, streetscapes, waterfronts, and public spaces. Dubai, on the other hand, has launched an ongoing campaign which will transform the emirate into an open air museum, reshaping the way people view it. The city will become an open gallery with numerous street art, installations, photography and sculpture that will instil a sense of culture and value among residents and visitors. Such initiatives drove tourist numbers to 14.2 million in 2015, a surge of 7.5 per cent over 2014. In addition, Dubai’s masterplan for 2020 incorporates sustainable outdoor design and green spaces, giving momentum to the landscaping sector. The Big 5 Outdoor Design & Build Show will make its debut at the Community Management Week that will take place from May 23 to 25, 2016 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. It is specialised trade show for landscaping, infrastructure and urban development with a special focus on the design, build and construction of all private and public spaces. To be held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, UAE Minister of Infrastructure Development, and supported by the Dubai Municipality, Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, and the Federal Transport Authority, this year’s edition will showcase sustainable, low-maintenance and costeffective technologies, products and services for the outdoor design and landscaping sector. James Meltz, Exhibition Director, The Big 5 Outdoor Design & Build Show, said: “The UAE government has given a tremendous significance to outdoor built environment by developing them as open spaces that easily blends with the surrounding architectural and natural features. Keeping up the government’s vision of building sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, and utilitarian open areas, The Big 5 Outdoor Design & Build Show 2016 will bring dynamic ideas for the industry professionals through the exhibition, Leaders in Landscape Summit, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD)-certified workshops. We are confident that the show will fill the market gap for smart, innovative and green landscaping solutions, making outdoor spaces,
6
Dedicated landscaping platform debuts at first-ever Community Management Week with industry-oriented summit & CPD-certified workshops
The Big 5 Outdoor Design & Build Show brings sustainable solutions for UAE’s outdoor spaces beautiful, inviting and useable.” Peter Scott, Manager – Landscape Architecture, Khatib & Alami, said: “Close cooperation between the government authorities and the private sector has resulted in the creation of excellent landscape architecture in the UAE. In fact, the country has set a standard for the MENA region in desert landscape modification, outdoor liveability, water optimization, sustainability, and maintenance. We are upbeat that The 2016 Big 5 Outdoor Design & Build Show will throw the spotlight on creative, artistic, and environmentalfriendly products and services to address the growing demand for sustainable products and technologies for outdoor design.” The highlight of The 2016 Big 5 Outdoor Design & Build Show is the educational conference that includes a ‘Leaders in Landscape Summit’ and free-to-attend CPDcertified workshops. The Leaders in Landscape Summit will gather local and international industry leaders who will provide an exclusive review of the region’s iconic outdoor projects. The 3-day agenda of the Summit includes sessions on Landscape Project Leaders, Leaders in Landscape Architecture and Design, and Leaders in Landscape Construction.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Ali El-Keblawy, Professor at the University of Sharjah, will speak on the topic ‘Conservation of Arab World’s Natural Heritage and Culture with the Use of Native Plants in Landscaping.’ The talk will touch on the construction and maintenance of different types of thematic gardens, including medicinal, aromatic, herbal, and edible. “Growing more endangered native plants in gardens and landscaped areas would inevitably lead to their conservation,” added ElKeblawy. “For instance, local species such as Acridocarpus orientalis, Caralluma flava, and Pulicaria edmondsonii are threatened in their natural habitat and can be conserved with our efforts. Additionally, planting them will reduce the use of fresh water, fertilizers and pesticides, thus considerably limiting the pressure on natural resources and the environment.” Sameer Darwash, Manger – Projects, Union Properties, will speak on the topic ‘Green Community Expansion Project.’ He will discuss the creation of an aesthetically beautiful and environmentally-friendly community, while addressing key approaches to deliver functional, cost-efficient, and easy-to-maintain projects.
A REVOLUTION IN GREEN ROOF IRRIGATION
HUNTER’S ECO-MAT™ IS THE ULTIMATE SUBSURFACE SOLUTION. The Eco-Mat combines drip tubing with special polypropylene fleece to move water laterally, providing a reservoir of water at the roots. With the ability to hold two litres of water per square metre, it’s perfect for use with lightweight growing media.
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION | Built on Innovation Learn more. Visit hunterindustries.com/greenroofs
Above: Eco-Mat being installed on a 6070 m2 hospital green roof in San Diego, California, USA.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
7
News & Events
10th Flowers and Garden Festival 2016 His Excellency, Chief Executive Officer of Royal Commission in Yanbu Dr. Alaa Bin Abdullah Nassif along with Engr. Saleh bin Abdullah AL-Zahrani, CEO Flowers and Gardens Festival, Engr. Yousef M. Abuaskar, Director of Landscaping & Irrigation Department viewing the Kids Area
T
he 10th Flowers and Garden Festival 2016 was inaugurated by His Excellency, Chief Executive Officer of Royal Commission in Yanbu Dr. Alaa Bin Abdullah Nassif on Thursday 13th March 2016, in the presence of Engr. Saleh bin Abdullah AL-Zahrani, CEO Flowers and Gardens Festival, Engr. Yousef M. Abuaskar, Director of Landscaping & Irrigation Department and other distinguished guest. The extraordinary spectacle that took place at the Events Garden featured a sea of floral arrangements and landscape designs in vivid colors and pastel shades that surround the main attraction—a largerthan-life flower carpet at the heart of the festival. Since the open-air floral exhibition’s inception, thousands of
His Excellency, Chief Executive Officer of Royal Commission in Yanbu Dr. Alaa Bin Abdullah Nassif , inaugurating 10th Flowers and Garden Festival 2016
visitors head to the Red Sea waterfront city that’s blanketed with a fragrant scent to admire nature’s own beauty. Engr. Saleh bin Abdullah AL-Zahrani, CEO of the festival, said that a special 12-meter wall of flowers starting at the entrance was built to dedicate to the soldiers protecting the country. More than 150 companies and institutions from the Kingdom and abroad participated in the event, showing off their products including furnishing and maintenance of household gardens, installation of modern irrigation, agricultural tools, nursery
10th Flowers and Garden Festival Overall View
8
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
products, garden furniture, fertilizers and seeds. There was an area where the public was given information on traffic rules, rationalization of electricity & water. Specially designed programs was also designed for children, which has pleased parents.
LED LANDSCAPE LIGHTING
Contact us for free consultation and site survey at: Tel: +9714 399 9348 Email: showroom@globallightllc.com
Trail Light
Wall Light
Spike Light
Bollard Light
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
9
News & Events Banana Island Resort, Doha
Anantara celebrates 15th anniversary of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas
B
anana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, the luxury hospitality brand’s first island resort in the Middle East, developed by Al Rayyan Hospitality, is celebrating the 15th anniversary of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas worldwide, with an exciting range of activities. Highlighting the brand’s philosophy ‘Life is a Journey’, the brand evolution goes hand in hand with Anantara’s global growth. Since the first property opened its doors in the Thai seaside town of Hua Hin in 2001, Anantara has grown into a collection of 35 luxury hotels and resorts in city, island and desert settings, across ten countries. From Asia across the Indian Ocean to the Middle East and Africa, Anantara has evolved into an award-winning brand that offers outstanding guest experiences in distinctive and iconic settings. Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara brings the same famed hospitality and unique guest experiences to the region. Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara will organise a diverse range of activities over 15 days that will bring great value and unmatched delight for guests and visitors. Guests coming to the brunch on 4 and 5 March will receive a 15% discount cards on their next brunch experience, 15% discount at Anantara Spa and Balance Wellness Centre as well as a 15% discount on their upcoming stay at the resort. Balloons branded “Happy 15th Anniversary Anantara” will be provided to the children in addition to the tasty macaroons. Anantara Spa and Balance Wellness Centre will host 15 different activities throughout the 15 days.
10
To conclude the celebrations on 15 March, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara will be marking Earth Hour 2016. The resort guests and team members will collaborate by switching off lights, as well as organising other initiatives for guests to demonstrate their commitment to live sustainably and take action by caring for the planet, followed by a BBQ dinner on the beach along with a bon fire for a great dining experience. Mr. Thomas Fehlbier, General Manager of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, said: “The impressive growth of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas is a matter of pride for all of us. Over the past 15 years, the brand has set exceptional milestones assuring guests and visitors the true joy of our ‘Life is a Journey’ philosophy. Our attention to detail, the unparalleled service and living in harmony with nature, position us apart in the industry.” He added: “At Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, we believe in living in harmony with nature. That is why we chose Earth Hour as one of the key activities to mark our 15th anniversary. Through our participation, we are underlining our commitment to energy conservation while delivering great guest experiences. We are encouraging our guests, Qatar residents and Team Members to join us in support for this global effort.” Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara feels a world away from bustling Doha. It is only a 25 minute journey by luxury ferry from Al Shyoukh Terminal located in the city’s downtown area or a 10 minute helicopter ride directly from the airport with bird’s eye views of the spectacular coastline.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Dynamo Signature Parks www.dynamoplaygrounds.com
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
11
News & Events
R
apid urbanisation has created many problems for the environment and our relationship with nature. Congestion, air pollution and high levels of CO2 are just some of the challenges that we are struggling to cope with. Meet the London-based Designer, Baharash Bagherian, who has been designing solutions to some of these problems, all of which are in tune with nature. Most recently, he was tasked to design the world’s greenest eco resort in UAE by Eco Resort Group. The project features a spring at its heart from water that is extracted from the ground. Some of the project’s environmental benefits include recycling waste water on site for irrigation, onsite waste management, the enforcement of a zero emission zone and 157,000 square feet of solar panels. Baharash is also the designer working for one of Dubai’s highest profile individuals, to design an off-grid home in the middle of the desert. This private home is completely energy self-sufficient, using solar panels, it generates and stores clean power in several battery units. The retreat was designed to be in harmony with the pristine and untouched desertscape. Another eco-project which he designed was the phase 2 of Dubai’ Sustainable City. His approach to the phase 2 of this eco-development was to integrate the buildings with the landscape, which will feature more than 10,000 trees as well as 11 biodomes. Baharash Bagherian believes that designing in tune with nature is about working with the unique qualities of the site. Using local materials and vernacular techniques combined with modern technology, we can create truly smart and sustainable projects. Ultimately, if cities encouraged more designers to be in tune with nature, we would be protecting the environment whilst also living healthier lifestyles in eco projects like these.
12
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Building in tune with nature. From cities that run on solar energy, resorts that extract water from the ground to off-grid homes; meet the entrepreneurial-designer who builds in tune with nature.
News & Events “GREEN” TREATMENT BY FILA FOR EXPO 2015’s TREE OF LIFE
Symbol of Expo 2015 protected by surface care specialist Francesco Pettenon
B
efore moving on to Expo 2020, let’s have a look at a striking example of exterior design. The now iconic “Tree of Life” was one of the symbols of Expo 2015 in Milan. Its design was inspired by none other than Michelangelo, who, while redesigning Piazza del Campidoglio in Rome at the Pope’s request, imagined a complex and symbolic lozenge structure that culminates in a twelve-pointed star with each point indicating a constellation. This centuriesold design has inspired Marco Balich, artistic director of the Italian pavilion, to realize the majestic structure that has roots in the past, and at the same time is a symbol of innovation and of enthusiasm towards the future. The 35-meter tall structure, with its 42-meter wide “foliage” is the result of a team effort by 250 technicians and cost a total of 3 million euros. The “roots” of the Tree of Life are hidden under a base inlaid with porphyry and Botticino marble, both with an antislip bush-hammered finish that copies Michelangelo’s diamond pattern in the Piazza del Campidoglio. Access to the
14 8
tree is via a walkway made of the same materials that rises up out of the water. The walkway and the large base of the tree have been protected with FILA’s ecofriendly products to increase the longevity of the material and ensure maximum protection against everyday use and stains. “Protecting fine materials from UV-rays, water, dust and dirt is always essential, but for walkways or surfaces that people can touch or stand against, it is crucial. Over 14,000,000 visitors have witnessed the Tree of Life show during the six months of the Universal Exposition, yet today the porphyry and Botticino marble of the walkway still look brand new. This would not be the case if they had not been properly protected.” commented Francesco Pettenon, Managing and Commercial Director of FILA Surface Care Solutions -a market leader in surface care solutions. Such long-lasting protection requires a few steps for optimum performance. First, before the stone was grouted, the material was cleaned and pre-treated with Fila’s water-based protector for absorbent surfaces that safeguarded the stone from the dirt produced while laying it without altering the adhesion of the grouting. This made
www.landscape-me.comIIMarch May 2016 II www.landscape-me.com 2016
cleaning it afterwards considerably easier. After the installation was finished, the surface was washed with an acid descaler that removes encrusted residues and any building site dirt: mortar, limescale, concrete, grouting, natural paint and construction dirt in general. This cleaning restored both kinds of stone -the porphyry and Botticino marble- to their original beauty. Finally, to protect the material from dirt, Fila’s high-performance solventfree stain protector was applied. Its water-based formula reduces application time by 80% compared to treatments with solvent-based solutions, which, Mr Pettenon added “is an essential factor in a building scenario like that of Expo”. “Considering our Italian roots, protecting what has become the symbol of the 2015 Expo in Milan has made us truly proud”, commented Francesco Pettenon. “Our systems have been used in a huge number of prestigious projects around the world and are recommended by over 200 international top brand producers of materials for floor and surfaces covering, so we have strong hopes that we will also work on the upcoming Expos”.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
15
News & Events
T
he ‘Lusail City’ development is located North of Doha, Qatar and covers 35 km2 of land, islands and sea water. The project comprises residential housing for approximately 200,000 residents, mixed-use retail, offices, commercial centres, hotels, marinas, recreational areas, community facilities, avenues and public parks etc. The Lusail Development is one of the most significant urban development in Middle East. The earthworks and infrastructure works started in 2006. Construction work is well underway with 75% of the infrastructure completed and 70% of private project under construction. Twenty percent (20%) of the land are dedicated to open space and landscape. Lusail’s plan is to minimize the water consumption in landscape developments focusing on selection of plants species with minimum lawn areas. The landscape strategy for Lusail encourages the use of native vegetation and prevents rain water runoff. Approximately total area consists of 55% soft landscape and 45% is hard landscape.
LUSAIL, the NEW QATAR’S CITY GOES GREEN 16
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Few key figures will illustrate the importance of the Design & Build Packages awarded to Nakheel Landscapes. General excavation 240,000 m3 Reinforced concrete 31,000 m3 Coloured and stone paving, timber deck 333,400 m2 Stainless steel handrail 2,440 m External and street lighting 900 mm TSE network Pneumatic waste collection system 910 m Potable water, Foul sewer & storm water networks 13,000 m Telecommunication systems Electrical wiring/cabling 310,000 m Kiosks, pergolas, water features Floating fuel dock Soft landscape and irrigation system 141,000 m2 Planting soil mix 274,000 m3 Palms & trees 8,900 nos Shrubs and various plants 790,000 nos Feature walls and urban furniture 175nos Play areas 4 nos
Four “Design and Build� Landscaping Contract Packages have been awarded to Nakheel Landscapes by Lusail REDC for a total value of USD 244 M. The scope of works includes the hard and soft landscape, irrigation systems, urban furniture and lighting for approximately 10.5 kilometres of road in the Marina District, 8.5 kilometres of major road infrastructure, 18 kilometres of streets in the Fox Hills District, as well as 3.5 kilometres of waterfront promenades in the Marina District. The works started in June 2014 and are expected to be completed by March 2017.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
17
artificial grass
The grass is greener By Ben Bloomfield In August 2014, Easigrass - an artificial grass company – launched in Dubai to address the growing artificial grass market. Before its UAE establishment, all artificial turf requirements were being serviced from the company’s London headquarters. Since its Dubai launch, Easigrass has gone from strength to strength working with some of the most prestigious companies and brands in the UAE.
18
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
The Irish Village In month one of operations, Easigrass had taken on their first major project in the UAE – to replace the existing lawn at The Irish Village, a bar and restaurant located in Garhoud. Easigrass was initially approached by Manager Dave Cattanach, as he had been struggling for years to keep the lawn looking inviting, green and most importantly - alive. Due to the extremely high footfall and traffic at The Irish Village it had become an impossible task to maintain. Having explained the resilient nature of the EasiMayfair product to the owners of The Irish Village, they decided to take the plunge and replace the natural grass with Easigrass – an artificial grass.
Sofitel The Palm Easigrass were called to Sofitel The Palm Hotel on Palm Jumeirah to inspect the grass areas around the swimming pool. The hotel’s landscaping team found that the lawn areas were being destroyed by guests pushing and pulling sun loungers. The grass never had time to regrow so these areas became worse and eventually there was nothing but earth and sand. The hotel felt that artificial grass was the best solution. Easigrass explained that they infill the grass with silica sand which is a clean, white, round sand. In a normal residential situation they would apply 8kgs per square metre of silica sand to the grass installation but in this case, where the usage and traffic is extremely high, they doubled it to 16kgs per square metre. The sand acts as protection to the base of the system as well keeping the individual blades of grass standing upright. The more sand, the more protection. Jumeirah Creekside Hotel The success of the grass installation at The Irish Village encouraged the management of the adjoining property, The Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, to consider the options for their garden area. They were unable to maximise the potential of the space due to the trees in the middle of the lawn which prevented the events team from setting up a marquee on a level surface. Another factor was the shade the trees created, which meant no light was reaching the natural lawn and it had therefore deteriorated into unsightly, muddy patches. The plan was to redesign this area, and remove some of the trees and create a level surface for a large hospitality area where the hotel could host weddings and corporate functions. Easigrass were called in and set to work. Once all the trees had been removed, the team were able to excavate and level the new 2,000 square metre lawn to prepare for the artificial turf placement. The results were fantastic and has enabled the hotel to host various functions on the lawn.
Al Qasr Hotel The next interesting project was for the Jumeirah Group and Al Qasr Hotel in Souk Madinat Jumeirah. The resort’s management often host weddings at the hotel so they wanted to create a dedicated events venue. The idea was to create a perfectly level lawn area leading directly onto the beach. However, they found that the grass was extremely difficult to grow next to the sea. Not only is it difficult to grow grass in these salty conditions but the grass had to be able to take a high volume of traffic during the events. Easigrass were called in to provide a natural looking alternative to real grass. The landscape team no longer had to worry about maintenance and the events team had a visually pleasing venue every time.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
19
artificial grass
Zero Gravity at Skydive Dubai Zero Gravity beach club hold the largest weekly party in Dubai, therefore the crowds they entertain are vast. A large crowd means high traffic and the main stage for the nightclub is outside, in what was meant to be, a natural grass area. The grass didn’t stand a chance with the high amount of footfall and it turned to bare earth very quickly. Therefore, Easigrass suggested the Easi-Mayfair as they knew from their experience with The Irish Village that it would work well. Once the grass was installed the visual transformation was incredible and the nightclub once again had its green lawn back, this time to stay.
Wild Wadi Wild Wadi is all about creating an enchanted atmosphere that seems removed from reality. One of the ways they do this is by making the water park visually interesting and appealing. Easigrass were brought in to look at the area below the Jumeirah Sceirah slide which is the highlight of the park. The problem was that as the guests climbed higher and higher towards the top of the tower, the surroundings started to look too hard and intimidating. By simply adding a long, wide strip of Easigrass below the slide the whole area was softened up and made to look more natural.
20
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Fort Island, Madinat Jumeirah In 2015 the Fort Island in the Madinat Jumeirah was redeveloped in order to increase the space available for entertainment and functions. The new function area needed to be softened but the design team were aware that natural grass wouldn’t be longlasting. Easigrass were consulted and the decision was made to use artificial grass instead of natural grass. Once the new Fort was completed, it was clear to see the softening effect that the grass had. The artificial grass breaks up the stonework and creates interesting pockets of greenery. When viewed from on top of the Fort the patterns are beautiful.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
21
Al Nawras round-about, connecting Giant wheel plaza with Prince Faisal bin Fahd Street
22
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Jeddah North Corniche
KLA – Dietmar Kamphans
The North Corniche project has Jeddah reclaiming its Red Sea waterfront with ambitious landscapes that relate to the fabric of Jeddah’s community and the natural environment. KLA Landscape Architects designed
Faisal Bin Fahd Street is a 7.5km
one of the Middle East’s largest
long street that runs parallel to the
recreational projects: The Jeddah
Corniche and will be linked via a pe-
North Corniche. This project is the
destrian bridge through Al Nawras
first of its kind in Saudi Arabia and
roundabout reaching the Giant Wheel.
stretches 12km in length from Tah-
This street will be refurbished fol-
lyah Street in the South to Fatima
lowing international standards, and
Al Zahra, the Floating Mosque.
act as an open air museum filled with
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
23
Branding the North Corniche
equipped with seating furniture, play-
Environmental and Socio-economic Benefits
ground equipment and a 5 meters wide
An overall improved cultural and so-
dah North Corniche were designed
promenade that meanders through and
cio-economic environment was one
uniquely and are intended to strength-
around the art features.
of the main driving factors when re-
en the identity of the destination for
The whole project is about 2.5 Mil-
viewing the master plan. As a result, a
both the people of Jeddah and for
lion m 2 and has the Corniche designed
substantial amount of new investment
local and foreign visitors. The sim-
in 7 phases, with an 8th phase dedi-
opportunities are presented in the new
plicity of formation and the power of
cated to Faisal Bin Fahd Street. The
North Corniche design. Existing trees
the design idea were taken into con-
first phase of the Corniche, also the
were conserved as a precious natural
sideration when developing the logo
narrowest part of this project, opened
asset of the site. Recreational activi-
for the Corniche. The final product is
in 2012.
ties were born through the creation of
easy to remember and conveys a clear
Other waterfront development proj-
a promenade, Vita Parcour and small
message, going beyond the monoto-
ects by KLA are: Yanbu Al Sinaiyah,
trails as well as green spaces for pas-
nous ideas and stereotypes.
a 14km coast line, including 4 islands,
sive contemplation, active play and
While brainstorming, we constituted
5.5 Million m². Coastal Park in Yan-
recreation. Public spaces were pre-
different emotions and activities we
bu, 30,000 m², North Beach in Jubail,
served and appropriate uses were es-
felt closely related to waterfront as
a 2.5km parkscape, 300,000 m
tablished.
a whole. These findings then created
art features. Its green corridor allows for the creation of an urban park fully
2
The Branding and Logo for the Jed-
Aerial view towards North with cable car above sea
24
Jeddah North Corniche
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Conceptual sketch Tahliyah Plaza
Corniche mosque park
Giant wheel at Nawras plaza
ments. The goal of this project is to
coastline was then abstracted and a
Elements within the North Corniche
unique organic shape was born. The
Landscapes of this size play a large
open, balanced and well defined. Spe-
colors chosen were:
role in defining cities, and a water-
cial characters for each different pub-
Blue: symbolizing water, calmness
front as big as the North Corniche
lic space define the function of that
and stability,
continues to play a central role in the
space. Some of the elements found
Green: reflecting fresh existence and
open space system of Jeddah. KLA’s
within the Jeddah North Corniche de-
continuous growth
vision/ objective/ mission of the proj-
velopment include:
Brown: standing for the warm earth
ect is to create a Corniche that acts as
tone of a fertile soil
an integral part of the urban fabric of
a base for further developments. The
Jeddah, supporting the city’s social,
Signage in the North Corniche
cultural and economic drive to produce changed visions for their public spaces. The beauty in this design is
create a public space network that is
12km long and 10m wide uninterrupted promenade
Jeddah’s Giant Wheel and cable car stations
Large plazas hosting shops, restau-
One of our duties was to develop a
recognized by individual details that
successful signage system that is con-
fit together to create a final result that
stant in appearance and clear in ex-
is harmonious and holistic.
pression of information. Five basic
A unique character of the Jeddah
Custom designed water features,
types of signs were determined, and
North Corniche are the large park
with a monumental water fountain
each serves a specific role in the way
like spaces between the road and the
in the Northern Entrance of the
finding system.
promenade with many different ele-
Corniche.
rants and leisure buildings
An open-air museum and a festival area with an open-air amphitheater
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
25
Custom fit pergolas and shade structures
Designated barbeque areas, prayer areas
Public toilets, paid toilets and immersible waste containers
Sandy beaches with watch towers Marina with island, 2 new piers, as well as a fishing pier and water taxi stops
Hilton Beach
26
Planting strategy
greenery zones have been chosen ac-
Lighting Strategy
In combination with the signage it-
cording to their sustainable adaptabil-
In general, lighting within the site
self, a first-class sustainable plant
ity to the harsh site conditions which
was placed in a way that enhances and
selection, especially palms and trees
are defined by the general Arabian
transforms exterior landscapes, high-
will serve as guidance for visitors.
Desert as well as the sea side prox-
lights trees, shrubs and walkways,
Palms line the promenade, and flour-
imity with its strong winds and saline
and add an extra sense of security
ishing trees are found on both sides
soil. Carefully chosen non-poisonous
especially around the parking lots.
of the Vita-Parcour providing much
plants provide a large surface area of
Each zone has a special characteris-
needed shade. Plants for the lush
shade within the playgrounds.
tic and this was complemented by the
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
lightings. Areas with higher activity,
cally for certain age groups help chil-
grey granite was used for paving all
dramatic theatrical lights were pro-
dren experience a variety of options,
along the sidewalks, even the ones
posed to suit movement and sounds.
allowing them to jump from one play-
along the Faisal-Bin-Fahd-Street of
In areas meant for lounging and re-
ground to the other. Rubberized, slip-
the project. The promenade was paved
laxation, warm lights were utilized.
proof, shock absorbent and non-toxic
with light grey granite, and each plaza
Bridges, viewpoints, water fountains
floors are used in the playgrounds for
got a special custom designed treat-
and art features are signified so that
added safety measures. Play struc-
ment, to best fit the design intention
they can be located from a distance.
tures adhere to safety standards and
of the plazas. Artificial wood planks
The continuous flow of lights along
maintain and respect the recommend-
were used in the piers, colored asphalt
the promenade creates a visual refer-
ed distances for safe fall zones. Exer-
in the Vita-Parcour and colored rub-
ence, while the playgrounds and green
cise stations have been spread along a
berized paving in play areas.
spaces are lit in a colorful and playful
“Vita-Parcour� providing adults with
spirit.
a free-of-charge natural and outdoor gym.
Play Strategy
Conclusion The overall goal of this project is to create a space in which there is a
Playgrounds were designed in a way
Paving Strategy
that encourages activity and the natu-
High quality locally found granite
terfront and an increased sense of
ral desire to keep moving. Opportuni-
paving was the choice of material for
responsibility. Multiple new destina-
ties to explore, discover and imagine
the Jeddah North Corniche. Colors
tions will be born within the water-
are created to encourage and stimu-
ranged from dark grey to light grey,
front, and the connectivity between
late skill development. A variety of
greens, browns and beige, as well as
one another drastically improved.
play, and play parks designed specifi-
different hues of red and pink. Dark
Public access will be optimized and
shared community vision for the wa-
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
27
Northern Gate Fountain
access to the waterfront lands will
Project:
During the development of the design
be improved as well as new linkages
Jeddah North Corniche & Faisal Bin
process KLA prepared movies for re-
developed, connecting the people to
Fahd Street Development
ality like visualizations to achieve a
waterfront lands and waters that are
Client:
better understanding of the complete
not currently accessible. With this
Ministry of Municipal and Rural
new waterfront vision.
new development, the people and vis-
Affairs, Municipality of Jeddah
itors of Jeddah can benefit from the
Landscape Architect:
The Waterfront movie can be ac-
opportunity to be able to visit a Cor-
Dietmar Kamphans
cessed on http://www.youtube.com/
niche with high quality recreational
KLA Kamphans
w a t c h ? v = C u q Ty 2 B AY D c & f e a t u r e
facilities and entertainment venues
LandscapeArchitecture GmbH
=youtu.be
well beyond what is currently being
Visualization:
offered.
Christian Vogel Branding: Anke Kamphans Infrastructure: Saudi Consulting Services Construction: Phases 1 to 3 in 2012, Phases 4 to 8 in progress
28
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
KAMPHANS LANDSCAPE
A R C H I T E CT U R E
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
29
buildngs and nature
Rethinking office space By Heatherwick Studio
30
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
T
his isn’t the most attractive title, I know. But as we’ve inhabited a variety of workplaces, including a garage in Menlo Park, a farmhouse in Denmark and an entire New York city block, we’ve learned what makes an office space great. We’re excited to put that into practice, starting here at our home in Mountain View. Today we’re submitting a plan to redevelop four sites - places where we already have offices but hope to significantly increase our square footage - to the Mountain View City Council. It’s the first time we’ll design and build offices from scratch and we hope these plans by Bjarke Ingels at BIG and Thomas Heatherwick at Heatherwick Studio will lead to a better way of working.
The idea is simple. Instead of constructing immoveable concrete buildings, we’ll create lightweight block-like structures which can be moved around easily as we invest in new product areas. Our car team, for example, has very different needs when it comes to office space from our search engineers. Large translucent canopies
PLANT SELECTION MADE EASY!
Plants database for the Middle East
• • • •
700+ plants 2000+ pictures Data sheets Plant reports
• Power search • Thumbnail galleries • Export as PDF • Export to Excel
• Add your own notes • Windows or Mac • Arabic version available soon ...and many more features
DOWNLOAD HORTUS TODAY FOR A TEN-DAY FREE TRIAL! www.hortus.me I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
31
buildngs and nature
will cover each site, controlling the climate inside yet letting in light and air. With trees, landscaping, cafes, and bike paths weaving through these structures, we aim to blur the distinction between our buildings and nature. Of course, this project is about much more than just office space, it’s about doing more with the local community as well. So we’re adding lots of bike paths and retail opportunities, like restaurants, for local businesses. We also hope to bring new life to the unique local environment, from enhancing burrowing owl habitats to widening creek beds. And we’re committed to do everything we can to save energy— our recent agreement to offset our energy consumption in North Bayshore
32
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
33
buildngs and nature
with renewable energy includes the development of this proposal. We chose Mountain View for our headquarters 15 years ago because we love the beauty of the bay, the close proximity to great universities, the family-friendly environment and the chance to work in a city at the heart of Silicon Valley. Today, we want to create office spaces that
34
don’t just provide a great home for Google, but which also work for the city that has given us so much. We look forward to working with our neighbours at the City Council on this proposal—and the future of Mountain View’s North Bayshore.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Photo: Heatherwick Studio and Bjarke Ingels Group.
Leading manufacturer
of synthetic turf surfaces
Abu Dhabi Indian School
Discovery Gardens, Dubai
Indian School, Muscat
UK manufactured and designed for landscape, leisure and sport.
English Modern School, Doha
Hilton, Dubai
Skycourts, Dubai
www.tigerturf.com I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016 t: +971 4 810 3111 e: MEinfo@tigerturf.com
35
all about birds outdoor comfort
A
successful outdoor design is one that you love to come home to, but how can you be sure that your feelings will last? If durable and flexible, an outdoor space will never go out of style if designed right and supplied with the appropriate materials. Improving your outdoor space can require a significant outlay, so customers want to ensure its money well spent. To ensure this, you need to start with a great design and then complement it with materials that will stand the test of time so that you don’t have to dip back into your pockets again in a few years down the road to rework the project. Combining enduring appeal, a timeless style and hard wearing materials, one can be guaranteed to enjoy the garden outdoors for many years, if some due diligence is
36
Standing the test of time words by
Paul Azzopardi,
Managing Director of Toscana Landscaping
conducted on material use. This is where designers and landscaping architects have such an important role to play in helping you create the garden that will deliver many enduring memories of time spent outdoors with families and friends.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
With the right materials, an outdoor space can offer the same level of functionality, comfort and luxury of an interior space. However, materials that are used for an indoor setting often can’t withstand outdoor conditions so material selection
does need to be looked at differently. This includes, soft landscaping elements and hard landscaping materials, which need to be chosen carefully to ensure that they are suitable for their location. While the material used in any outdoor space needs to be weather resistant, some sites present tougher conditions than others. One example is properties exposed to wind, sea breeze and high temperatures. Similarly high water table or excessive exposure to swimming pool water will mean more than normal wear on tear on the patio tiles. Flooring is an easy material selection to overlook, however it will probably be the first tell -tale sign of an older garden, with issues like cracked concrete, broken tiles and displaced grouting. Flooring should be chosen not just for its looks but also for their intended suitability for the function of the space. For example, some products will not be strong enough for use in a driveway while others will overheat in the sun and not be suitable around a pool. In terms of visual appeal, to ensure that
your outdoor space doesn’t date quickly look to classic hardscaping materials like natural stone. A simple, classic material palette with neutral colours and clean lines will not only create an enduring look, but also give an impression of space and order. Our range of Travertine tiles, particularly the unfilled variety, is our preferred choice for this kind of style. With an incredible adaptability for hot and humid conditions, due in part to its composition but also because of being naturally ventilated due to a multitude of small holes in the texture, Travertine not only has the looks but it also - once the surface patina develops and protects the stone further - will look better with ageing. The thickness of the stone is also important and tiles that are less than 2cm will be prone to crack especially if the foundation, at least 10cm of in situ concrete, is not sound enough. Travertine comes in many different styles and finishes, with the cross cut version being more durable in outdoor projects than the vein cut version. It is recommended that you treat these natural stones with a professional sealer as they can be easily stained due to the porous nature of the stone. Travertine is not suitable for heavy traffic areas such as driveways. For a more modern and contemporary look, we recommend the use of porcelain stone. A relatively new product in the landscaping industry, porcelain stone tiles are fired at very high temperatures which ensure a hardening of the slurry and this makes the material particularly sturdy and waterproof. Porcelain tiles allow for a
very precise installation with very narrow joints to obtain a refined and elegant aesthetic result. The tiles are resistant to stains and chemicals and come with a high level of non-slip characteristics. Advances in colour compositions have allowed these kind of tiles to resemble natural stones, and sometimes it is quite hard to differentiate one from the other. The range which imitates wooden flooring is particularly impressive and ideally suited where a wooden deck look is desired but without the high maintenance issues and costs involved. Our range of Ceramiche Keope, porcelain tiles from Italy, are producing some amazing results in our landscaping projects and many of our exclusive clients in Dubai realise the fact that a small investment in a good tile will pay off and ensure that the garden retains its allure for many years to come.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
37
outdoor comfort
Every installation, be it natural stones or porcelain tiles, needs to be maintained in order to not only remain clean but also to be protected and last a long time. Not all detergents are deemed suitable - avoid the use of hydrofluoric acid because if not isn’t used correctly, the floors will look dull and opaque. Residues such as organic compost from falling leaves or bird excrement might stain and if not removed quickly will often become problematic to remove and also will attract and accumulate more dirt and debris. The use of excessive water is also not recommended as this can leave salt deposits once it runs dry which tend to corrode natural stones or stain porcelain ones. Our best
38
recommendation is to first sweep clean and then mop lightly with specialist floor cleaners available in specialist hardware stores. Tiling is one of the most eye catching elements in the garden and must be given a lot of thought at the design stage. A substantial investment perhaps at the initial stage, but a good quality tile will go a long way and avoid future replacements cost. Our experience has shown that Travertine tile works best for this environment if clients are looking for natural stones whilst the modern porcelain Keope tiles fit perfectly in a contemporary design. By looking at your outdoor design from a long term perspective, you can create a
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
space that will continue to enrich your life for years to come.
About Toscana Landscaping:
Established in Dubai in 2008, multiaward-winning company Toscana Landscaping specialises in creating outdoor lifestyles. Beautifully designed, but also practical, Toscana Landscaping turns outdoor living spaces into destinations. Toscana Landscaping is a supply and build group of companies, comprising of: Toscana Landscaping, Toscana Pools, Toscana Living, Toscana Design and Pavers & Decks. With 250 employees in Dubai, Toscana Landscaping is committed to designing, sourcing and producing the ultimate outdoor living solutions and accessories.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
39
family park urbanism
Pop up pool, Brooklyn, NY. A project financed by the city and managed by the community. Architects worked pro-bono and all materials, except for the pool, came from recycling or were donated. The project is temporary, until the lot is sold. A combination of tactical urbanism and governmental support.
Urban Healing An introduction to the concepts of “urban resilience”, “tactical urbanism” and “global strategies” and the necessary feedback for each other, in preparation for UN-HABITAT 2016. by: Jimena Martignoni 40
I www.landscape-me.com I April 2016
C
ities today are a big problem for the planet we live on. At the same time, they are the only place where solutions are possible to be found, set out and implemented. From one side of the perspective from which to look at the city, we find more than ever the image of poverty and the uneven growth with an urban population larger and a capacity to sustain it - which if not thought out empathetically with nature and socially inclusive - will be less every time. On the other side of the perspective, purely related to consumerism, both real and visual, and to the idea of the “city as a brand” and to that of “the citizen of the world”, respectively rooted into the concepts of marketing and globalisation, some iconic cities appear as the Mecca of urban beauty, glamor, tradition, set designs for perfume’s commercials, dream destinies and centers of economic and political power.
This contradiction is in constant feedback with the reality of the uneven growth, since that other reality of the charming and dream city can only be accessible for a few. However, the latter exist as such, and although framed in the complex and concerning situation at the present time, both environmental and social, charming cities unfold.
The city continues to attract, absorb and foster more and more inhabitants, who depend on the utilisation of the natural resources – and the soil, water and the energy derived from them. The natural landscape that once was the origin of everything – is to be lost, to be transformed, to be reduced and to be depleted. This frenzied and damaging
“The real alternative to exotic hardwoods”
WPC protect primeval forest. Our first objective was to develop the technology to create a composite wood superior to natural wood in order to combat the thoughtless lumbering of forest trees. The Curve Building, Showroom 12, Sheikh Zayed Road Al, Quoz 3, Dubai, UAE.
UAE OFFICE I Tel: 04-3408626 I Fax: 04-3408636 I Website: www.nahar.ae I Email: dxb@einwood.ae Nahar_May'16.indd 1
5/1/16 11:33 AM
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
41
urbanism
growth has to be with the widespread use of the automobile and the real estate market mainly private, with the sprawl of informal housing, the poverty’s refuge, and of course with the lack of land use policies. Paradoxically, in some inhabitants (those same few that have access to the beauty of the city) is generated such an idealisation toward nature, in reality less pristine, that it encourages the creation and the almost unlimited rise of projects for gated condominium neighbourhoods, “distant and green” and exclusive, or some new urban components such as the “green shopping mall”, all jeopardising the survival of that ideal landscape and transforming it into a mere object of nostalgia.
The loss, transformation, reduction and depletion of the natural landscapes in which cities originated and expanded bring also other consequences more profound and alarming because of its effect in the climatic processes. Cyclically, these processes have an effect on the development and endurance of cities, its borders and major structures. New measures and new practices, new thoughts and new consciousness. Among so many new, and overcoming the (now old but not at all forgotten) notion
of sustainability, three core concepts that complement each other appear as possibilities for urban healing: resilience, tactical urbanism and global strategies. Urban Resilience: Although the concept of cities’ resilience is widely related with the climate changegenerated hazards, this can be understood as the general capacity of absorbing and adapting to changes while maintaining certain intrinsic characteristics. While many definitions for resilience live together and all are valid in the process of making it more precise and accurate, one commonly accepted regarding cities, is that of 100RC - 100 Resilient Cities, pioneered by the Rockefeller Foundation who state, “The capacity of individuals, communities, institutions, businesses, and systems within a city to survive, adapt, and grow no matter what kinds of chronic stresses and acute shocks they experience.” At the same time, chronic stresses are those which “weaken the fabric of a city on a day-to-day or cyclical basis, including high unemployment, inefficient public transportation systems, endemic violence, and chronic food and water shortages” and acute shocks can be identified as those “sudden, sharp events that threaten a city such as earthquakes, floods, disease outbreaks, and terrorist attacks.” However, what ought to remain most relevant and significant is that resilience should be a political and social choice, one that would eventually be able to outline how positive change really happens. A clear example of a resilience-rooted project is the
42
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
SIS Pitches …sports surfaces for all
Great Pitches...
SIS Pitches are the market leader
...are surfaced by the experts!
and the renovation of existing pitches
in design, construction and project management for both new pitches throughout the Middle East and Europe.
• Manufacture • Installation • Supply • Construction • Re-turfing • Maintenance
World class natural & synthetic sports surfaces for all!
• Football • Rugby • SISGRASS • Hockey • Gaelic Sports • Golf • Tennis • Multi Sport • Cricket •
www.sispitches.com +971 (0) 4 3415543 I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016 salesme@sispitches.com
43
urbanism
new natural borders, made of green buffers and wetlands, to the south of Manhattan, created to counteract the impact of possible hurricanes, tides and sea level changes (after Hurricane Sandy in 2012).
out by social actors, non-governmental organisations and the affected community, and whose implementation if successful is possible to be formalised by the government.
Tactical Urbanism: Addressing specific problems and necessities at local and neighborhood scales, tactical urbanism is the combination of short-term actions, mostly carried
This is a process called “bottom-up”, translated as one that is not born or planned by politicians or central governments. In her essay “New Practices”, published in the book On the Move (Landscape
Urban renovation of an alley, São Paulo, Brazil. A neglected alley transformed into an urban meeting point, for art and social activities. Led by the community and architect Anna Dietzsch. Opening organised by cultural organizations Café na Rua and Conexão Cultural. Graffiti’s artist Rui Amaral.
Architecture Europe, The Netherlands, 2015), Annalisa Metta says, while explaining these community-led actions, “They operate on the surface, overlap the existing without deleting or modifying it substantially. This apparent weakness is a reason for their success, because they appear reassuring, provocative but not dangerous, irreverent but even harmless, since they act as a simulation of opportunities, not as the final configuration.” Of course a balance must be required with formal measures and projects, but the novelty of these initiatives – and their need for independence and concrete work rather than words – is the most remarkable. Examples, are the urban orchards systematically built by local communities, in order to promote food production, contact with nature and transportation energy cost’s reduction. Global Strategies This is the most complex, the one which should roof the other two and the one which conveys the almost forgotten idea of largescale and long-term planning. It is studied and defined by large organisations but is officially and internationally implemented at diverse scales (national and regional). The conference UN-HABITAT III (United Nations), held every twenty years since 1976 and which this year will take place in Ecuador, seeks to include all these trends for the creation and support of new paradigms and a “new urban agenda”. This agenda fosters the creation of a new city model and is inclusive of social equality and is connected but not fragmented but integrated, with more public transportation and less cars and compact urban sprawl containment.
44
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
45
urbanism
The city as an ecosystem where man is not the only one protagonist and modifier but whose actions are known as of deep consequences. Perhaps we had to come to witness the impact that nature can cause in cities. The time to see this is the present, timing in nature is different, slow-paced and imperceptible, until it becomes evident and transforming. Now the city has to be resilient, together with its inhabitants, who only survive if the city survives, now the community replaces, with their tactics, the academic and governmental urban laboratory, now the global strategy is a new model of city whose adaptation to the existing will be a long process. In reality, the “Containment paradigm” promotes a city that is compact and in contrast, the “Making Room paradigm” states that developing countries with very rapid urban growth have to determine needed land to accommodate urban expansion. This is based on the fact, after several and steady studies, that city areas grow more than population because of the decline of density. Therefore, minimal plans for a structured expansion have to be anticipated, based on the real estimation of required land, room for arterial roads, open spaces and boundaries.
Study Maps, urban expansion. UN-Habitat online lectures.
Not every city has the same structure, needs and possibilities, and these two paradigms should respond according to every existing situation. Yet, only time will tell which one is more truly effective and has more positive impacts. Lastly, as complex as this subject is, it could also be argued that these global strategies and the community-led interventions and grassroots initiatives aforementioned are, in principle, conflicting core concepts or at least not really compatible (the latter seem to move independently of any decisions or budgets designated by the governments or any formal organisations). However, notwithstanding agreeing on these approaches being somehow hard to connect, the hope resides, precisely in the possibility of these two trends growing together and feeding each other and identifying convergence, seeking collaboration to advance integrated socialecological knowledge, and building on the strengths from different fields. The most apt solution for a planet more and more inhabited and urban, should include everyone and the natural environment.
46
Community Orchards, East Hills, Bogotá, Colombia. Coordinated by the NGO “Fundación Cerros de Bogotá”.
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
47
Environmental Park
A trip to the water treatment plant may not sound like the ideal Sunday family outing. However, this will soon be a real possibility, according to the master plan for the Energy, Climate and Environmental Park that gathers the Hillerød Utility Company’s activities at one location.
Making a change T
he park is a unique combination of energy production, water purification, resource recycling and climate management - in a public, recreational landscape that also has an educational purpose. The complex will be a demonstration park for energy and climate measures, as an ambitious model for how to best take care of Earth, as well as a venue where school classes, can put the green message into practice. The general public can also enjoy the park’s climbing areas built up with recycled soil, and walks to enjoy the wetland area’s rich bird life. The around 50-hectare area will include a wastewater purification plant, commercial and household recycling station, geothermal and biomass heat production, test fields for solar, wind and biomass energy, and a head office and learning centre for Hillerød Utility Company. Instead of building a technical facility, rain water is collected from the adjacent residential areas in a newly created nature area.
48
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
49
Environmental Park
A key aspect of planning has been to use the topography to create flexible access and drainage conditions, and in particular from the outset to include an exit strategy for how the area can be returned to a natural state at some time in the future. At C.F. Møller, architect and partner Julian Weyer is pleased to have the task
50
of putting Hillerød Utility Company’s ideas into practice, “We are very proud of the project as it will serve as a type of mini-model for Denmark’s focus on climate and environmental issues,” he says. “As far as we know, it is the first facility in the world to gather all activities at one location, and take the step of fully involving the general public.”
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
Energy, Climate and Environmental Park Client: Hillerød Utility Company Address: Solrødgård, Hillerød Syd, Denmark Landscape architect: C.F. Møller Landscape Engineering: MOE A/S Size: 50 ha. Year: 2013-
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
51
i book review
Books of interest Landscape of the National Trust
ISBN: 9781907892813 AUTHOR: Stephen Daniels PUBLICATION DATE: July 1, 2014 HARDCOVER: 260 pages BOOK DESCRIPTION: Landscapes matter. They provide the setting for our daily lives, as well as an essential component of our sense of identity. This fascinating book provides new perspectives on a range of cultural landscapes in Britain. It brings together the latest insights from the arts and
The Good Garden; The Good Garden: The Landscape Architecture of Edmund Hollander Design
ISBN: 9781580934152 AUTHOR: Anne Raver PUBLICATION DATE : 20 July 2015 HARDCOVER: 320 pages BOOK DESCRIPTION: This book presents dozens of gorgeous
The Authentic Garden; Naturalistic and Contemporary Landscape Design ISBN: 9781580934268
AUTHOR: Richard Hartlage PUBLICATION DATE: November 17, 2015 HARDCOVER: 224 pages BOOK DESCRIPTION: In contemporary American garden design,
humanities to illuminate the meaning of landscapes and bring them to life. It draws on case studies from sites managed by the National Trust to illustrate the ways in which landscapes speak to a wide variety of concerns - about beauty, belonging, the past, access to nature and people's sense of place. Chapters include The Art of Landscape, Ancient Places, Homes and Gardens, Lost in the Woods, Open Country and Shifting Shores. Living Landscapes will appeal to all those who care about the past, present and future of the British landscape and is superbly illustrated throughout with stunning photographs. estate gardens throughout the Northeast, approached thematically; individual sections reveal how components such as gateways, paths, pool terraces, bisques and groves, walls, and borders contribute to lush garden rooms, windblown seaside gardens, calming meadow gardens, intricate formal gardens, and shady tracts of woodland. Over 300 color photographs of beautiful properties in the Hamptons, Connecticut, and upstate New York provide glimpses of the best garden design happening today while breaking down its ideas for the home gardener. beauty for beauty’s sake is making a comeback. The sixty gardens featured here trace current planting trends across the country, showcasing the best designs of recent years from the verdant Pacific Northwest to the tailored Eastern Seaboard, as well as prairies in Denver and Texas and exquisitely detailed private gardens in the Southwest that create a sense of lushness even while working exclusively within the vocabulary of cactuses and succulents
With its headquarter in Tokyo, Japan and world class stores spread over countries like America, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Taiwan and now in DUBAI – UAE, Kinokuniya is a globally known book seller of repute. The store in Dubai Mall is a massive 68,000 square feet wide paragon book gallery which stocks more than half a million books and thousand magazines in English, Arabic, Japanese, French, German and Chinese at any given time. The Store is also a distinct cross cultural hub wide range of time to time multicultural events such a comic art demonstrations, language learning workshops, book launches etc. The pleasant ambiance, stenographic design and add to it the impressive view of modern skyline – world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, Kinokuniya at The Dubai Mall is just the place to evoke emotions and add pleasure to your book shopping. You may like to visit our website for more information. www.kinokuniya.com
52
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
53
i Company Listings Landscape Contractor Nakheel Landscapes T: +974 44085333 F: +974 44983420 info@nakheellandscapes.com www.nakheellandscapes.com Al Ryum Contracting Co. T: +971 2 6328960 T: +971 4 4510066 F: +971 2 6330932 F: +971 4 4510077 alryum@alryum.com www.alryum.com
Cemer T: 90 232 8538704 export@cemer.com.tr www.cemer.com.tr Raymond Sport T: +971 4 3391331 T: +971 2 4499196 F: +971 4 3391080 office@raymondsport.com www.raymondsport.com Dynamo PlayGrounds www.dynamoplaygrounds.com
Palmera Landscapes T: +974 4 44297991 F: +974 4 44297992 info@palmera.com.qa www.palmera.com.qa
Outdoor Furniture, Planters & Pots
Landscape products supplier
Renson T: +971 52 640 1352 middle-east@renson.net www.renson-outdoor.com
WT Burden T: +971 4 8860700 F: +971 4 8860701 streetfurniture@wtburden.ae www.wtburden.ae Tanseeq LLC T: +971 4 3617199 F: +971 4 3607966 info@tanseeqllc.com www.tanseeqllc.com
Irrigation Supplier Hunter Industries T: +001 760 591 7114 F: +001 760 591 7194 Hanna.Zaidan@ hunderindustries.com www.hunterindustries.com METTS Fzc T: +971 4 4470927 F: +971 4 4470928 admin@mettsfzc.com www.mettsfzc.com
Sport’s Facilities / Playground equipments
Planters Group T: 971 4 3390648 sales@planters.ae www.planters.ae
Nahar T: +971 4 3408626 F: +971 4 3408636 dxb@einwood.ae www.nahar.ae Jenny Flowers T: 971 4 3346222 F: 971 4 3341161 sales@jennyflowers.com info@jennyflowers.com www.jennyflowers.com
Artifical Grass Supplier
Sis Pitches T: 971 4 3415543 F: 971 4 3415643 david@sispitches.com www.sispitches.com Al Fanan Selling Plants and Garden Materials T: +971 7 2461228 M: +971 50 1011249 alfanan.garden@yahoo.com
LED LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Global Light & Power LLC T: +971 4 3999348 showroom@globallightllc.com
Soil Additives
Zeoplant LLC T: +971 4 4473588 F: +971 4 4473587 info@zeoplant.com www.zeoplant.com
cement products Transgulf Cement Products LLC T: +971 4 8801020 T: +971 2 69797959 F: +971 4 8801021 F: 971 2 6797960 info@tgcp.ae
www.tgcp.ae
Pasco Paving Stones Company LLC T: +971 3 7838173 F: +971 3 7838170 sales@pasco.ae T: +971 2 6724736 F: +971 2 6723759 pascoad@eim.ae
Water Features Specialist
Ghesa T: +971 4 432 8299 dina@ghesa.ae www.ghesa.ae
ACQUATIC PLAY SOLUTIONS Vortex T: +15146943868 info@vortex-intl.com www.vortex-intl.com
Book your space Now!
List your company in our Listing Page that reaches thousands of Contact: admin@landscape-me.com • Tel: +971 4 4470927 subscribers 54
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
100% HOSPITALITY
FOR THE HOTEL, RESTAURANT, CAFÉ AND FOODSERVICE INDUSTRY
Mega events in the MENA region are driving massive growth in travel and tourism, with over 25 million visitors forecast for Dubai in 2020. Increased demand for hotel rooms, restaurants, cafes and entertainment means major developments in the MENA hospitality market with over 238,908 hotel rooms currently under construction. The Hotel Show Dubai offers you the best platform to meet leading buyers from across the region.
17-19 SEPTEMBER 2016 DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE
BOOK YOUR STAND NOW TO MEET KEY BUYERS AT THE REGION’S NUMBER ONE HOSPITALITY EVENT
US$35.9bn VALUE OF GCC HOSPITALITY MARKET
US$43.2m VALUE OF HOTEL MARKET IN THE GCC
BUSINESS DEALS GENERATED AS A RESULT OF THE SHOW
TOTAL ATTENDEES
TO ENQUIRE ABOUT EXHIBITING CONTACT US ON:
64%
+971 4 445 3627 hotelsales@dmgeventsme.com
KEY DECISION MAKERS AND BUYERS
thehotelshow.com/exhibitnow
Strategic partner:
US$89.9m
24,729
Organised by:
Co-located with:
Exclusive official publications: Logo 1 - white
the
Leisure Show
Logo 2 - black
Knowledge partners:
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
55
New & Ongoing Projects Your Selected Search Criteria: Status : New Tender Trade Category : Agricultural, Landscaping and Irrigation
middleeasttenders.com
+971 2 634 8495
NEW & CURRENT PROJECTS Tender Name
Description
Client
Region
Tender Cost (USD)
Post Date
Closing Date
O&M & Planting Services
Operation, Maintenance and Cleaning and Planting Services
Ministry of Interior (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
1333
4/25/16
6/13/16
Manpower
Manpower to Collect and Clean the Seeds of the Fungal Plants.
Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs & Fish Resources - PAAFR (Kuwait)
Kuwait
536
4/13/16
5/29/16
Agricultural Tools
Procure of Agricultural Tools.
Ministry of Municipal & Rural Affairs (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
53
4/17/16
5/25/16
Artificial Turf Playground Implementation
Implementation of Artificial Turf Playground.
General Presidency of Youth Welfare (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
267
4/20/16
5/24/16
Green Feed
Procure of Green Feed
Ministry of Agriculture (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
267
4/25/16
5/22/16
Facilities Construction
Construction of various facilities, including Campus-Wide Improvements to Enhance the Landscaping, Creating New Road Network and Car Parks, Improve the Connectivity, Provide More Efficient Operation and Maintenance Services, Landscape Features, Walkways, Shade Structures and Pergolas, and Utilities Provision for Future Services
Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
3733
4/18/16
5/22/16
Streets, Platforms, Lighting and Gardens Maintenance
Maintenance of Streets, Platforms, Lighting and Gardens
Tabuk Municipality (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
667
4/19/16
5/18/16
Parks and Gardens Maintenance
Parks and Gardens Maintenance, Phase 3.
Ministry of Municipal & Rural Affairs (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
1333
4/20/16
5/17/16
Maintenance, Operation, Cleaning & Cultivation
Maintenance, Operation, Cleaning and Cultivation of Security Forces Housing Complex.
Ministry of Interior (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
1333
4/18/16
5/17/16
Agricultural Supplies
Provision of Agricultural Supplies
Eastern Region Municipality (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
1067
4/18/16
5/16/16
Garden Maintenance
Maintenance of Garden
Ministry of Municipal & Rural Affairs (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
133
4/18/16
5/16/16
Irrigation Materials and Spare Parts
Supply of Materials and Spare Parts for Irrigation
King Khalid Military City (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
400
4/13/16
5/15/16
Soft Landscape Works
Carrying out soft landscape works at a residential community.
Nakheel PJSC (Dubai)
Dubai
272
4/26/16
5/12/16
Sanitation Services
Sanitation Services of Grounds & Landscaping, Industrial Area
Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu (Saudi Arabia)
Saudi Arabia
1867
4/18/16
5/12/16
56
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
THE BEACH - JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE | DUBAI, UAE
BRING COMMUNITIES TOGETHER Engage people of all ages together with fun aquatic play. All through the wonder of water. JOIN US AT BOOTH Z4 C30 World leader in aquatic play solutions with over 6,000 installations worldwide +1.514.694.3868 | info@vortex-intl.com
VORTEX-INTL.COM
Our Local Experts
I www.landscape-me.com I May 2016
57
50 58
www.landscape-me.com II May November I www.landscape-me.com 2016 2015