Pro Landscaper Gulf June 2015 by Eljays44

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DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

GULF

June 2015

MIDDLE EAST SMART LANDSCAPE SUMMIT 2015

STATE OF PLAY THE LATEST INNOVATIONS IN PLAY EQUIPMENT

INSIDE OUT OUTSIDE IN UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR DESIGN

INTERNATIONAL PORTFOLIO PEACE PRIZE THE GARDENING WORLD CUP JAPAN BY RICHARD MIERS

BIG INTERVIEW NEHME MOUJAESS OF TERRAVERDE

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WELCOME

June 2015 | Volume 1, Issue 2

Concept to Delivery

GULF

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

June 2015

MIDDLE EAST SMART LANDSCAPE SUMMIT 2015

Welcome to June 2015

STATE OF PLAY

THE LATEST INNOVATIONS IN PLAY EQUIPMENT

INTERNATIONAL PORTFOLIO PEACE PRIZE

INSIDE OUT OUTSIDE IN UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR DESIGN

THE GARDENING WORLD CUP JAPAN BY RICHARD MIERS

BIG INTERVIEW NEHME MOUJAESS OF TERRAVERDE

Welcome to the June edition of Pro Landscaper Gulf. Many thanks to all the readers and suppliers who have taken the time to let us know their thoughts on our launch issue, and please can we ask for your continual feedback so that we can develop the magazine into the number one landscape magazine covering the Gulf region. This magazine is for and about the readers so we rely on your ideas and input to be able to deliver what you require.

Eljays44 Ltd 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 570 Publisher – Jim Wilkinson jim.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 589 EDITORIAL PLGulf@eljays44.com Editor – Lisa Wilkinson lisa.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 579 Commissioning Editor – Joe Wilkinson joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 577 Editorial Assistant – Jack Bacon jack.bacon@eljays44.com +44 (0)1903 777 573 Production Editor – Susie Duff susie.duff@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 578 Subeditor – Toby Wilsdon toby.wilsdon@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 578

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The results of the feedback have been amazing, it seems we are on the right track and the magazine is what the region has been looking for in terms of inspiring, informative and educational content, so read on as our aim is to build upon these foundations. Since the last issue we have visited the Outdoor Design & Build Show in April, and also attended the Smart Landscape Summit, both events in Dubai. The events were useful for building our knowledge on landscaping and urban development within the GCC region, and it was great to meet so many people working within and supplying materials and products to the area. It’s clear that commercial and domestic landscape is high on the municipalities’ agenda and there is lots to achieve within the region. So with this in mind, we hope landscape architect practices, garden designers and construction companies

ADVERTISING Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 588 Sales Executive – Ben Cumberland ben.cumberland@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 571 Horticulture Careers – Laura Harris laura.harris@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 587 Accounts Assistant – Lisa Woollard accounts@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 570 Managing Director – Jim Wilkinson jim.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: +44 (0)1903 777 589 MARKETING AND CIRCULATION Tel: +44 (0)1903 777571

will update us on all the projects they have been commissioned to work on, and perhaps even provide information and images for a portfolio feature – it’s a great way to showcase the excellence of your work and can be an introduction for new working partnerships. In this issue, as well as reports from both the events mentioned above, you can read a very interesting interview with Nehme Moujaess, the founder of TerraVerde, one of the largest landscape design and construction businesses in the UAE. There are three inspiring portfolios and Anji Connell, an international interior and exterior designer extols the virtues of making a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas. Enjoy the issue and don’t forget to let us know what you think, you can email us via PLGulf@eljays44.com or tweet your thoughts to @PLGulfMagazine.

Design – Amy Downes Kara Thomas Alan Wares Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd – Connecting Horticulture

Whilst every effort has been made to maintain the integrity of our advertisers, we accept no responsibility for any problem, complaints, or subsequent litigation arising from readers’ responses to advertisements in the magazine. We also wish to emphasise that views expressed by editorial contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers. Reproduction of any part of this magazine is strictly forbidden.

Pro Landscaper’s content is available for licensing overseas. Contact jamie.wilkinson@ eljays44.com

Subscription records are maintained at Eljays44 Ltd, 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA, UK. Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Eljays44 Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, uncommissioned photographs or manuscripts.

Subscription enquiries jessica.garrard@eljays44.com

GULF

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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The best in UK landscape and garden design

T HE FU T URE OF L A NDSCA PING

SAVE THE DATE: 17 NOVEMBER 2015 www.futurescapeevent.com FutureScapePage.indd 1

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CONTENTS

June 2015

Volume 1 Issue 2

GULF 6

News Shed

News Extra

Out And About

Industry news from the Gulf region

Middle East Smart Landscape Summit 2015

At the Outdoor Design & Build Show

INTERVIEW 15 Nehme Moujaess

The managing director of TerraVerde talks about his business in the UAE

PORTFOLIOS 20 Spiritual Retreat

Blue Stream’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque project

Peace Prize

Infinite Possibility

UK designer Richard Miers’ Japan Gardening World Cup 2012 show garden

TerraVerde’s Palm Jumeirah villa project

FEATURES 28 Inside Out Outside In

International interior designer Anji Connell explains the benefits of a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors

Walk This Way John Harte from Lateral Design Studio shares his knowledge of chic drain cover design

PRODUCTS 31 Latest Products 32

Latest Play Equipment

Trading With Outdoor Design James Booth on bespoke metal features

GALLERY 35 Projects In The Gulf www.prolandscaper.ae

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NEWS

NEWS SHED Cracknell celebrates fifth anniversary in Qatar International architects and urban design company Cracknell has celebrated its five-year association with Qatar, where it has developed an impressive portfolio of world-class design solutions since 2010. The landscape practice, headquartered in Dubai, most recently completed a project in the capital Doha, which involved the design of multi-level terraced gardens ready for commercial development at Shoumoukh Twin Towers. Cracknell believes the diversity of commissions undertaken over the past five years has a large part to play in the creation of its solid reputation in Qatar.

Mr Al Rawi, director of Cracknell’s Doha office, said, “Despite the global economic crisis, Cracknell has grown into one of the country’s leading landscape architecture practices. It’s about doing things differently. That Cracknell decided to expand at a time when most practices in the region were contracting, reflects the very essence of who we are.” www.cracknell.com

Free Wi-Fi access stations on offer in Dubai parks Dubai has recently welcomed dozens of new solar-powered Smart Palm stations which provide free wireless internet access in parks, beaches and other locations. The UAE-made stations, standing six metres tall in the shape of a palm tree, also have fast mobile phone charging stations and screens displaying information on Dubai’s attractions.

New desalination guidance manual The Middle East Desalination Research Center’s (MEDRC) Harmful Algae Blooms (HABs) project is set to provide a new guidance manual for use by desalination plant operators. The manual will be a result of the research project convened by MEDRC to develop a regional HABs early warning system for the Gulf. It will contain practical information on marine HABs including guidance on bloom types, ecology, species identification and toxin detection methods, plus plant process monitoring for algal indicators.

Residential Arabian Ranches garden made solely from eco-friendly material Built alongside a wild desert park in Arabian Ranches, this peaceful landscape was constructed using only eco-friendly materials at the wish of its homeowner. Designed by Better Gardens, with input from homeowner Elan Fabbri, the garden exudes a surprisingly cosy but decadent

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Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

warmth that’s quite rare to find in Dubai gardens. “It took ten months to finish the space and Better Gardens had to rip out tons of concrete decking, patios and poor-quality finishing on previous work. “Trying to strip the tiles off the swimming pool was painful as

As part of the UAE Cabinet’s initiative to encourage innovation in 2015, the Smart Palm project took ten months to produce from concept through to delivery. The first Smart Palm was installed at gate six of Zabeel Park in April with plans to introduce 50 more across public places throughout 2015. www.landscapesummit.com

they don’t use toxic solvents,” Fabbri explained. Gardenias and frangipani (Plumeria) were chosen for scent and beauty, while hibiscus and bird of paradise flowers (Strelitzia) for their aesthetic appeal. www.gulfnews.com

It will also describe practical strategies to mitigate HAB impacts and maintain plant availability. Risk assessment frameworks will be discussed to assure safe drinking water in the face of a toxic marine HAB, along with management response plans. The manual will be freely available on the MEDRC website when completed. www.medrc.org

GULF

Submit your news stories to Pro Landscaper Gulf If you would like to submit any stories regarding Middle East landscaping projects, floating tenders, contract awards and new trends in green design and build, please email them to jack.bacon@eljays44.com or tweet to @PLGulfMagazine

www.prolandscaper.ae

19/05/2015 16:36

NEWS

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visits Dubai Butterfly and Miracle gardens

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai has declared his admiration for the Dubai Butterfly and Miracle

gardens’ conservation of the local environment, following a recent guided visit. Sheikh Mohammed toured the Barsha area’s Butterfly Garden, the

world’s largest covered garden which showcases custom-built domes and 120 species of flowers. Upon the day’s final appearance at the two-million square metre Dubai Miracle Garden, Mohammed praised the effort being made to increase the UAE’s recreational landscaping areas for the community’s enjoyment, cutting pollution levels. Sheikh Mohammed was educated by the garden’s developer Abdul Nasser Rahal, manager of Akar Landscaping Services and Agriculture about the designs and contents of the gardens. www.emirates247.com

NEWS IN BRIEF Landscapers call for extra native plant growth

At the recent Middle East Smart Landscape Summit 2015, landscapers discussed the need for growing more native plants and how important it is to capture the local character in the country’s landscape. The Middle East has more than 2,500 species of plants, most of which have not been explored by urban landscapers.

Dubai Safari Park project is 30% complete

Due to open late 2016, the 119 hectare Safari Park will use solar energy to generate electricity and run the irrigation system, oﬃcial vehicles on site, and recreational facilities according to His Excellency Hussain Lootah, Dubai Municipality director-general.

Dubai homeowners soon to irrigate Abu Dhabi expands number gardens using wastewater of city parks Abu Dhabi City municipality is building five family friendly public parks for residents of Al Shamkha and Al Adleh. Al Shamkha opened the first of these in March, meanwhile Al Adleh is set to launch four parks later this year, costing a total of Dh29m. The parks will feature recreational facilities including multipurpose playgrounds, football pitches and play areas for children. “These parks will be an appropriate destination for families thanks to the security, safety and health measures in place, in addition to the clean environment and multiple services that provide comfort to park goers and Shamkha residents,” said the municipality’s acting general manager, Musabah Al Murar. www.thenational.ae

www.prolandscaper.ae

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New rules on landscape watering are in place to ensure gardeners in Dubai don’t waste irrigation water while going green. The Dubai Municipality (DM) is planning to put a cap on the use of treated wastewater supply from DM for irrigating private landscape projects and residential gardens, according

to a senior official. “We are looking at limiting it to five litres per square metre per day,” said director of the drainage and irrigation department, Talib Abdulkareem Julfar. The rule is expected to prevent people from leaving their sprinklers and hoses on for longer than the permitted time. www.khaleejtimes.com

Lights on for iGuzzini at the UAE pavilion iGuzzini, an Italian leader in technical and architectural lighting, has been selected to illuminate the UAE’s national pavilion at Expo Milan 2015. The company’s commercial hub in Dubai oﬀers a range of customer services in 13 countries across the region.

LOOK OUT FOR...

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GULF

September 2015

Our special bumper issue is out this September, including everything you need to know about landscaping in the Gulf. If you’d like to receive your own copy please email jessica.garrard@eljays44.com

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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NEWS EXTRA

MIDDLE EAST SMART LANDSCAPE SUMMIT

2015

The Middle East Smart Landscape Summit 2015 took place on the 28 and 29 April at o tel Dubai he al Resort & Spa. Now in its third year, the summit attracted over 400 landscape architects, government authorities, urban lanners, develo ers, environmental specialists and contractors from across the GCC, committed to the development o sustainable landsca es in the iddle ast region ro andsca er ul s ublisher a ie Wilkinson attended the two day event. ith the ai o turning Dubai into a reen aradise in ti e or the orld o , there has been a string o a or invest ents in urban landscape development. Maintaining a strong irrigation network is vital for the development o sustainable landsca e ro ects and ith this in ind, the Dubai unici alit has ear ar ed over Dh bn to ards so t landsca ing and e anding the irrigation net or s a result o these greening initiatives, there ill be a or growth opportunities for the landscape sector in the Middle East. o create urban s aces that are verdant and sustainable in the arid iddle ast, ocus needs to shift towards innovative ecological landscaping. With an emphasis on the latest developments in landscaping technologies, the Middle East Smart Landscape Summit is the leading lat or or business net or ing or the region s landsca e industr I had the privilege of attending the Summit, held under the atronage o the Dubai unici alit he event included an e citing series of keynote speeches, panel discussions, case studies and networking sessions.

www.prolandscaper.ae

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Opening the event he su it as inaugurated b ng Salah Amiri, assistant director general for environ ental and ublic health services sector, Dubai unici alit , ho also delivered a s ecial address on behal o the Dubai unici alit e highlighted the need for smarter usage of water. Fatima Al Muhairiy, head of landscape section/ general ro ects de art ent, Dubai unici alit , presented on how the Municipality were i le enting sustainabilit across Dubai ar s The municipality has led the way with sustainabilit and the energ saving statistics from the parks section over the last three years indicates this. Fatima went on to share with the audience the case study of the Al Khazzan energ ar regeneration he ro ect used local trees and native planting. It is also completely solar powered with everything from the lighting to the irrigation pumps using the solar power generated on site. By using solar power there was a saving of 44.5 tonnes of CO2 (or the equivalent of 1100 trees). The park was opened in anuar ati a then ent on to share another case study with the audience, al ar , Dubai he ar ill include , al s ro diďŹ&#x20AC;erent s ecies he ar is still in development with 50% completion to date. When completed it will host festivals and encourage traditional rabian activities ro oting social sustainabilit The second speaker was Boris Tanevski from Falconcity of Wonders LLCm (FCW), a privately owned company that was founded to develop a real estate ega ro ect is under the u brella o ale h ad l oosa nter rises, a business ith ore than ears o e erience in the real estate sector ccu ing

4 1

The audience at the Smart Landscape Summit

Dr James Hitchmough speaking at the event

(L to R) Steven Velegrinis, Andrew Anderson, Peter Scott and Thomas Buscheinen

Walter Bone, Senior Landscape Architect, Khatib & Alami

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

19/05/2015 16:40

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NEWS EXTRA

over 40m sq ft, FCW hosts the seven wonders of the world, commercial centres, a theme park, family centres, sports facilities, educational institutes, in addition to more than 5,500 residential units that vary in design, location and size, to satisfy the needs and requirements of both investors and end users. Tanevski engaged the audience with landscaping from a private developer’s perspective including an intriguing insight into the exciting new development in Dubai. He rightly pointed out that landscaping forms the rst i ression o a develo ent and it is key to create the correct environment. It is important that corners are not cut and that the investment is correctly budgeted for. The key is also to remember to include the maintenance aspect of the project. Falconcity of Wonders will include 366 villas on the west wing and 277 villas on the east wing. The middle will comprise VIP villas with helipads and views across the impressive Gardens of Babylon. The development will include a re lica o the iﬀel o er, e or s Central Park and three pyramids. Simon Oxenham is CEO of Convic, a business with expertise in the development of action sports facilities that has created more than 600 around the world. Convic has developed a global reputation for innovation 5

Eng. Salah Amiri, Dubai Municipality

The Easigrass stand

www.prolandscaper.ae

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and quality, building a wealth of national and international knowledge and experience in the process and manages everything from start to nish conce t, lanning, design, construction and maintenance for the life of the space. Oxenham discussed sustainability and demonstrated how urban space can impact public health. He indicated some key statistics including: ● 74% of people in the developed world live in urban areas ● More people die from obesity than malnourishment ● The average child spends eight hours a day using digital media His solution to these issues is introducing parks to increase social sustainability. The facts su ort enha s argu ent 6 sporting programmes have resulted in 45% less social disruption in projects Convic have been involved in and children spend on average three hours per day at a skate park – time they may have otherwise spent on digital devices. The key is to engage more people in urban activity. Oxenham gave the audience a brief introduction to a project Convic is due to begin working on in collaboration with the Dubai Municipality, X Dubai that will establish Dubai as the main extreme sport venue in the world. Artificial grass hen ca e the to ic o arti cial grass his began with a well presented insight into the develo ents o arti cial grass ro aul

Langford, the managing director of TigerTurf a UK based international supplier and distributor of sports turf, that has major operations in Europe, Australia and India. For over 30 years it has successfully installed synthetic turf sports projects in all conditions. Langford began with a brief introduction to TigerTurf and indicated that although the grass is a man-made product it can be created sustainabl ith land ll e t to practically zero. He was also keen to point out to the audience that diﬀerent construction materials are used in products for warmer cli ates as can aﬀect so e o the chea er products on the market. Panel debate Later in the day a panel discussion took place on the sub ect o arti cial grass he anel featured four guests: Steven Velegrinis, director of urban design at Perkins+Will, an architectural practice which creates innovative and award-winning designs for the world’s most forward-thinking clients. Velegrinis led the debate and mentioned that reviousl he as unsure about using arti cial grass. However, as the debate progressed Steven agreed with the panel that the product should be seen as an alternative to, rather than a replacement for real grass. Thomas Buscheinen of GrassCo, supplier of arti cial grass based in audi rabia said that there are certainly applications for its use and that it is a safe product as long as the correct grass is used for the correct requirement. He agreed with Steven in that it should not be viewed as a substitute for living grass. Thomas added that GrassCo is developing products that will cool the grass down to enable people to walk on it durng the hot summer months. Peter Scott, manager of urban planning and landscape architecture department at Khatib & Alami, an architecture and urban planning co an ith t ears e erience sa s that it doesn’t smell and feel as good when you are sat on arti cial grass but agrees it is good or patterning landscapes. He highlighted possible health and safety issues when he went on to

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NEWS EXTRA

sa that arti cial grass needs to be disin ected or it could gro ould he nal anel e ber ndre nderson, is a landsca e architect ro an otanic arden Di an o al ourt nderson s general vie is that there needs to be a ro er allocation o resources e sa s e should al a s uestion hat e are tr ing to do n su ar , his vie is that or the right a lication, arti cial grass can be the er ect solution he act that arti cial grass undoubtedl saves on irrigation leads e on nicel to another s ea er al tahl ro eo lant sure an readers ill no about the eo lant soil additive but it as interesting to delve dee er into its long ter cost saving advantages n interesting anal sis ro the Del a ar ro ect in bu Dhabi indicated huge saving over a short eriod o ti e Day two he second da o ened ith a se inar ro ngi aber, sustainabilit anager at De an rchitects and ngineers, and ra l ahood, head o urban lanning at De an rchitects aber started the resentation ith ve ste s on integrating o en s aces ● onducting site inventor and anal sis ● Deter ine needs ● reating unctional diagra s ● Develo ing conce tual design lans ● Dra ing nal design lans

he then highlighted our e sustainable rinci les ● ● ● ●

reat ater as a resource alue our soil reserve e isting lants onserve aterial resources

he resentation then ent on to er aculture his included three oints on the hiloso h o or ing ith nature rather than against it and the rinci les o er aculture or sustainable landsca es hiloso h o or ing ith nature rather than against it ● cco odate or all li e s ecies ● are or eo le ● ini ise aste and rec cle rinci les o er aculture ● bserve and interact ● atch and store energ ● btain a ield ● l sel regulation and acce t eedbac ● se and value rene able resources ● roduce no aste ● Design ro atterns to details ● ntegrate rather than regulate ● se s all and slo solutions ● se and value diversit ● se edges and value the arginal ● reativel use and res ond to change

l ahood continued the resentation ith a ro ect case stud , adinat, located south o asra ne third o the site is etland and ver ecologicall sensitive, hich certainl introduced challenges or his tea he ro ect allo ed the o ortunit to create ne social order or the ounger generation hich res onds to their needs ntegrating the edges o the etlands and the built environ ent resulted in the success ul co letion o the ro ect Urban greenspace, biodiversity and people inall had the rivilege o listening to Dr a es itch ough, head o de art ent and ro essor o horticultural ecolog at he niversit o heﬃeld, itch ough highlighted that it is e that the audience integrate design, ecolog , horticulture and ersonal erce tion eo le need to ove out o the silo and co bine t o or three o these ele ents his as highlighted b the success o ondon s l ic ar and ho the biodiversit engaged eo le visiting the event e then ent on to discuss dr cli ates and started b sho ing a icture o a green conce t or Dubai, stating that it s i ossible to irrigate ever thing so uture develo ents need to be constructed or dr er conditions and cli ates a es rst suggestion is to engage in stress anage ent ith irrigation ater less and let things gro slo er he second o tion is to research the use o ne lants that need less ater Summary o su arise, the industr agrees that change is needed and it is u to ou, the readers, to e brace that change and ensure a sustainable environ ent or ears to co e

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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Opening the Smart Landscape Summit

A model of Falcon City of Wonders

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sah iraraB lA ,noitpecni sti ecniS“ latnemnorivne no desucof etargetni ot seigetarts tnemeganam eritne eht tuohguorht ytilibaniatsus ngised gnireenigne morf ,ytinummoc ,gnitsopmoc ot ,noitcurtsnoc dna dias ”,gnilcycer dna gnihsilop retaw ta rotceriD evitaerC ,laaZ niB ailemaK noitcurtsnoc s’EAU ehT -dnuorg dna euqinu eht ,iraraB lA The Outdoor Design and Build Show was held at The Dubai World Trade Centre. The show was gnussain iyojne sootah, i yrtsudni oﬃ ciall declared o en at a on onda ril b is cellenc laitnediser yldneirf-oce gnikaerb ot a htor iw uture ,ecnegro ruects ser and a stead strea o eo le entered the doors ai ing to get inslatiration ton ot mia eW“ .iabuD ni ytinummoc he sho brought together the leading landsca ers, landsca e architects and garden n i n o i l l i b 5 1 3 D S U f o e u lav fo tcapmi lacol eht esiminim ylno designers ro the region in oneohall over three da stsal ith the latest roducts on sho roa the t g n i d r o c c a , r a e y s t c e j o r p d e n n a l p d n a d e c n u o n n dna tnemnorivne lanoiger eht ecnahne ot tub ,tnemsu polevliers ed in la e ui ent, arti cial grass and outdoor ooring, the sho has roved leading o p x E s a h c u s s t c e j o r p a g e m y b n e v i r d , s i r r a H C E y b h c r a e s er ”.noitarotser lacigoloce lufethat rac tlandsca uoba gning irb in the ul is beco ing ore and ore i ortant .erutcurtsarfni laicos no gnidneps yb dna 0202 na gnidivorp si gnikniht drawrof s’ibahD ubA dna iabuD“ rof yaw eht gnidael yletinifed era ibahD ubA dna iabuD“ eht smrifnoc niaga ecno dna noiger eht fo tser6eht ot elpmaxe 7 e h t htiw ,noiger ANEM eht ni ereh tnempoleved elbaniatsus ,bbeW salohciN dias ”,redael lanoiger a sa sutats s’EAU lla taht sdradnats muminim dedivorp gnivah seitilapicinum eht ,puorG gnitekraM enilmaertS fo rentraP gniganaM epacsdnaL ,enoB retlaW dias ”,ot erehda tsum srepoleved ,5102 wohS dliuB dna ngiseD roodtuO eht fo sresinagro ngised gnidael eht fo eno ,imalA & bitahK ta tcetihcrA ngiseD yB“ .5102 lirpA ht51 – ht31 no iabuD ni ecalp gnikat .noiger eht ni smrif ,yllaretil etiuq ,era ew won seussi ytilibaniatsus gnisserdda ”.serutuf ruo lla rof gnidliub dnoyeb dna evoba gniog srepoleved ynam gniees era eW“ tseggib ruO .detacitsihpos dna kcils ,suoires saw SBDO 4102 yrtsudni eht morf esnopser tnaillirb a dah ew ,etad ot esacwohs ot ytinutroppo euqinu a su dereffo wohs ehT .CCG revo lla morf 8 ehT .ecneidua tsilaiceps a ot sdnarb s'nedruB T W eht etomorp hgih yrev a ot neeb evah sdael dna stcatnoc eht fo ytilauq tneve eht stcejorp wen eht tuoba deticxe era ew dna dradnats .detareneg avosytaM anaJ reganaM noisiviD erutinruF teertS tsaE elddiM nedruB TW

ot srepoleved rehto rof rab eht gnittes dna sdradnats eseht ”.yrtsudni elohw eht rof taerg si hcihw ,wollof gnikam ta gnikool ylgnisaercni era noiger eht ni srepoleveD retteb a gnidivorp dna ,ecaps roodtuo fo esu retteb .ylevitceffe erom ti esu ot elpoep rof tnemnorivne hcum ekam ot dnet t’nod elpoep ,ereh saera ynam ni elihW“ 1 Visitors studying products htiw elpoep edivorp uoy ecno ,ecaps nepo elbaliava fo esu 2 Outdoor gym equipment by Bin Hendi ekat lliw yeht yalp dna krow ,evil nac yeht erehw secaps 3 70 exhibitors showcased their business .dias enoB ”,taht fo egatnavda

ea.wohsroodtuoeht.www www.prolandscaper.ae

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Jamie Wilkinson speaking to Cemer Kent Ekipmanlari

The Dubai World Trade Centre

The exhibition hall

The ribbon ready to be cut

Bluestream’s stand

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015 13

20/05/2015 15:46

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INTERVIEW

THE

BIG INTERVIEW

NEHME MOUJAESS Nehme Moujaess established TerraVerde ten years ago. Here he talks about the challenges of running an outdoor design company in the UAE

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18/05/2015 14:36

INTERVIEW INTERVIEW

TERRAVERDE LOOKS AT A PROJECT FROM AN AGRICULTURAL AND ARCHITECTURAL POINT OF VIEW, ADDING MORE VALUE TO THE SPACE COLLECTIVELY

How did you develop your interest in garden design and landscaping? have al a s had an a reciation or beaut Naturally, I like to look at beautiful things and this is where my interest in design originates ro loo at gardens and landsca es s eci call as it adds value and enriches the a e live garden isn t ust an outdoor s ace, but an e tension and re ection o eo les ersonalit and st le What training and qualifications do you have? graduated ro he erican niversit o Beirut, achieving a BSc in Agricultural Sciences as well as completing a diploma in Agricultural ngineering cade icall , then ent on to accomplish an MSc in Soil Sciences, although 16

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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I have learnt skills and procedures outside of education in more practical environments which, in my opinion, are equally important as a or o training t s enthusias hich motivates me to extend my knowledge and better sel in hat do aste is a result o sel develo ent, st le sho s understanding and creativit generates an artistic touch How long have you been working within the landscape industry? ust over ears in total How is your company structured and how does it operate? ver the ast ears erra erde has gro n at a rapid rate and now accommodates over e bers o staﬀ here are various

levels within the company including execution tea s and anagerial staﬀ erra erde has a great team ethic with a high standard of ersonnel and ro essional individuals he success of the company is due to excellent communication and cooperation, integrating and or ing together eﬀectivel Do you outsource any aspects of TerraVerde’s services? All of our services are executed internally within erra erde e can handle the hole rocess, from the initial concept right through to co letion e rovide turn e solutions or luxury projects so it’s important we do this in house to eet our o n high standards, as ell as atching the client s high e ectations o eti es erra erde is outsourced as www.prolandscaper.ae

19/05/2015 11:12

INTERVIEW

Since the launch of TerraVerde, have you noticed any changes or patterns within the UAE market? It’s a very dynamic market in the UAE so you have to strategise according to the actual ar et ove ent ou react to uctuations rather than forecast or predict future trends. What geographical areas do you cover? Mostly we cover Dubai and Abu Dhabi but we have also completed projects in Sharjah and the other Emirate regions. We are operating mainly in the UAE for the time being but looking to expand to the other Gulf regions in the near future.

we can deliver certain aspects of our services and essentially act as a sub-contractor for reputable contractors and architects. For example, landscape designer Kamelia Bin Zaal uses TerraVerde for our construction capabilities and top quality service. Do you specialise in any particular type of project? Primarily our clientele falls within high end, private residential projects. We also work on some larger scale commercial developments, mainly across the residential and hospitality sectors. There’s a large spectrum of categories and types of projects we cover, but the clients we work with are passionate about innovative design and understand the value of creating a unique, exceptional outdoor space. www.prolandscaper.ae

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What are the most important factors you take into account when designing a garden for a client? With a landscaping project you have to consider the layout, the location, the size and the condition of the current plot. This is standard practice for TerraVerde but it is the aesthetics of the design which makes the project more unique and personable. This is one of our advantages and it s hat diﬀerentiates us ro other co anies ith the actual nish, e go a step further and incorporate intangible aspects, like the style of the property inside and out, the tastes and culture of the client as well as considering relevant trends. Most people look at a space or project from an architectural perspective and prioritise with the hardscape, whereas we look at it from an agricultural and architectural point of view, adding more value to the space collectively, creating a nice uni ed balance What does the construction process consist of for TerraVerde? Once we have received all the necessary information an initial concept will be created for the client. Once this is approved it will then go into the nal design stage e then ollo up with our drawing and bill of quantities. this is acce ted and signed oﬀ, e begin the construction and installation once we obtain any necessary approval from the concerned authorities. We pride ourselves on our project delivery and it is our workmanship and integrity that has led us to previous successes, as well as completing on time.

What is your favourite project and why? Every project TerraVerde has been associated with has been unique and has its own character. We do not repeat designs so I cannot say which is my favourite. Each scheme should be individual and diﬀerent because it re ects the personality of the project. There are certain features on certain projects that I like more than others. I could visit any of our sites and I will have a nostalgic feeling and remember the goal that we wanted to achieve for that client.

Landscaping project recently completed in Hattan, Arabian Ranches, Dubai

The sun sets over another beautiful landscape, designed by TerraVerde

Project in Palm Jumeirah. Hatch provided by Cape Reed

Winning last year’s Dubai International Garden Competition

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INTERVIEW

Do you think there is a true understanding of the value of domestic gardens in the UAE? I think people in this region have always understood the value of greenery in the desert. Residents of the UAE now realise the importance of durability and quality. They don’t just want a garden which is designed to please the eye; they want an area which is sustainable. What inspires you? The same thing which has inspired me from day one, beauty. I take inspiration from all beautiful things around me, whether it is the curves of a well-designed sports car, the geometric lines formed from contemporary architecture or even just the colours and textures from nature which surrounds us, we can all be inspired.

What does the future hold for you and for TerraVerde? TerraVerde currently has a strong hold within the UAE and is somewhat of a recognised brand name across the regional landscaping industry. Over the past four years, we have developed interior design as a new branch of the company and we have also introduced bespoke carpentry to our already wide skill-set. his eans that e can ul l all the requirements of a project’s design brief and ensure that the interior integrates with the external landscape. We will certainly expand on these factors further and there’s no doubt we will continue to improve our overall service.

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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A pool at Emirates Hills illuminated with fibre optic lighting

Bathroom produced by TerraVerde’s interior design team

A Moroccan Majlis interior by TerraVerde

Project in Abu Dhabi featured in last month’s Pro Landscaper as one of the “best projects in the region”

www.prolandscaper.ae

19/05/2015 16:42

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16/03/2015 13:18 14:19 18/05/2015

PORTFOLIO PORTFOLIO

Blue Stream’s street furniture has enhanced the environment surrounding the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque while remaining sympathetic to the iconic structure

SPIRITUAL RETREAT

ocated in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the world’s largest, covering an area of more than 30 acres. Adorned with 82 domes and chandeliers that are gilded with 24-carat gold and millions of Swarovski crystals, it can accommodate up to 41,000 worshippers at any one time. Its spectacular architecture includes white marble walls, painted columns and unique vitrals. The scale of landscaping around the mosque is breathtaking, with reflective pools that illuminate the white and gold colours during the day and the phases of the moon at night. Blue Stream Environmental Technology LLC worked with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque authorities to develop urban landscaping at this grand spectacle. Urban design projects Blue Stream is the leading designer and manufacturer of street furniture and urban décor receptacles in the Middle East and South Asia. Contemporary street spaces can

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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be linked together to define and enrich community living, thus reflecting the regions personality and embracing modern architecture with traditional influences. Most of Blue Stream’s designs are project specific and they work meticulously with clients to conceptualise and develop a customised range of urban décor products for their projects. The final product material and structure is designed very much in conjunction with the layout of the street or area guaranteeing a perfect blend. The wide choice on offer gives each customer the exact kind of product to match the ethos of their project. Landscape features The scope of works at the mosque included complete urban furniture design, fabrication, supply and installation of street furniture items. Blue Stream collaborated closely with the client to ensure the many design elements aesthetically matched the general layout of the mosque, focusing on bringing out the majestic, serene and peaceful surroundings of the ambient environment.

The management already had an idea of what they wanted when it came to the street furnishings. The main focus was upgrading the existing urban furnishings around the mosque. They wanted to give the street scape a new feel and breathe life into the environment, taking into consideration the popularity the mosque enjoys, with over 300 visitors a day. It is fast becoming one of the most visited monument sites in the UAE as well as a regular landmark on every tourist itinerary. This has a lot to do with the management’s decision to upgrade the street scapes, and the mosque’s capacity to contain all the visitors. Blue Stream worked very closely with the mosque’s management offering them renderings of their existing public space and how it would look with the new street furniture layout. Extensive product range The idea was to take actual images of the site and superimpose the suggested street furniture onto those images to give the client an idea of how the urban landscape would look when the new street furniture was brought in. www.prolandscaper.ae

20/05/2015 15:48

PORTFOLIO

There was a great deal of collaborative work to finalise the finishing and the aesthetics of the street furniture so that the ambience and overall appeal of the mosque were mirrored in the implementation of the new street furniture. Project specific The primary focus was seating arrangement designs and coordinated litter bins. A large part of the external finish involved lustrous polishing which corresponded with the existing rudiments of the mosque. There was an understanding between Blue Stream and the mosque management that the prestige and level of this project would be of one of the highest calibre in the world. Great lengths were taken to ensure that the final end product was not only extremely durable and of high quality but also had a fantastic feel to it. The product was made from botticino marble and polished to a glossy finish. The product was also offered with a strong warranty specification and provided with a special protective coating to deal with the harsh weather conditions. www.prolandscaper.ae

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Impressive results The client, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, has expressed great satisfaction with the products. Being pleased with the design and the overall effect on the urban landscape, they are looking to collaborate further with Blue Stream in enhancing their public spaces and developing a vibrant feel to the external areas of the mosque. Conclusion Blue Stream has worked on similar iconic projects in the past and continues to do so throughout the GCC and South Asia region. A close understanding of clients and their requirements especially on such well-reputed projects is a must and Blue Stream has successfully shown that it can collaborate at the highest level in terms of design, development, manufacturing, supply and implementation of street design projects. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is another feather in Blue Stream’s cap, showcasing its capacity to work with world-class projects to deliver truly breathtaking public space designs.

1&2 The spectacular front entrance of the mosque 3

The benches were covered in a special protective coating to deal with all weather

The pools along the arcades reflect the mosque’s spectacular columns

The end result was extremely durable and of the highest quality

The mosque is supported by more than 1,000 marble and gold columns, inlaid with semi-precious stones and pearls

BLUE STREAM Blue Stream has been involved in groundbreaking projects across the Gulf region for almost two decades and continues to be the partner of choice among architects and construction professionals for all kinds of urban furniture and waste management solutions. The landscape and urban design company’s strength lies in oﬀering a gamut of high quality landscape, waste management and play equipment products and providing a custom-designed manufacture and installation service. Blue Stream prides itself on its passion for green living and enhancing urban environments in a sustainable manner.

www.bluestreamme.com

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015 21

19/05/2015 11:04

PORTFOLIO

Richard Miers talks us through his entry for the Gardening World Cup in Japan in September 2012

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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PORTFOLIO

he Gardening World Cup, held in Huis Ten Bosch Nagasaki, was conceived by Japanese designer Mr Ishihara (Japan’s equivalent of Alan Titchmarsh and Monty Don rolled into one) who lives near to and was affected by the bomb dropped close to Nagasaki by the Americans at the end of World War 2. Its theme is world peace, through the therapeutic act of gardening and enjoying well designed gardens, and it is held in a replica Dutch theme park the size of Monaco. For ‘locals’ from the Philippines, Singapore, Korea, and Taiwan, it is also a substitute for a long-haul, expensive visit to a European city. Unlike The RHS Chelsea Flower Show in the UK where designers need to find sponsors, participation in the event is by invitation only. In the Gardening World Cup, designers are paid a fee to attend and since 2012 there has also been prize money on offer. Many countries are represented so it is a unique chance to see international design by some of the world’s best designers at a ‘curated’ show intended to appeal to an international audience. Many of the competitors have their own successful landscape design businesses and are involved in projects around the world. I was approached initially in December 2011 and officially invited in mid-March 2012. The time allowed for construction is two weeks and my garden entitled ‘Serentity’ was built by Asuka Ryokuka Kensetsu Co Ltd, of which Mr Amamoto is the boss. Inevitably there are challenges when planning and building a garden in a different country. When it came to sourcing plants I sent a list of 60 Japanese native flowers, but they

The completed Serenity garden

Design plan

Planting detail

View across rill

The completed garden as a whole

Plan drawing

Richard and Mr Sawada, owner of the Huis Ten Bosch Theme Park in Nagasaki

8,9,10 Construction in progress www.prolandscaper.ae

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weren’t able to get hold of any of them. Limestone chippings were unavailable so we had to go for buff-coloured gravel. But on the whole the process was pretty easy as I designed it to be built as economically as possible. I was also kindly lent Emily Young’s sculpture, Solar Disc III. The judging process Designers submit a client brief. This document should explain the thinking behind the exhibit and establish the scale of your endeavors. The judges use this document when they access the garden and award it points based on the criteria outlined below. This happens on the final day of the build. Designers are given an approximate time when the judges visit their garden. Judges cannot be spoken to during the process except for a period of two minutes when you are allowed to explain anything which you feel is not covered by your written brief, however, the judges do not answer any questions and will not respond directly. The garden does not have to be entirely finished at this stage. All gardens must be finished by the specified date and time, then the judges return and formally judge the finished garden. 7 They use the points scored on the previous day as a basis for the medal ultimately awarded, but this may be voted up or down depending on the finished garden. In September 2012 a prize of 500,000 yen for Best in Show and the same amount for the top three gold medalists was introduced for the first time. Being invited to enter this competition was a great personal experience and also a unique

opportunity to design a garden where I was the client. The whole experience was an excellent marketing and PR opportunity as well, and a chance to learn from others. Even better, I won a bronze medal for my entry ‘Serenity’!

RICHARD MIERS Richard Miers has been designing gardens for more than 14 years, both in the UK and abroad, and specialises in creating bespoke gardens that provide a treat for all the senses. Despite being rooted in time-honoured tradition, Richard’s gardens are clean and classically contemporary in style, with a strong sense of geometry.

www.richardmiers.com

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PORTFOLIO

INFINITE POSSIBILITY With an infinity pool as its central feature, TerraVerde drew upon a range of landscaping methods to deliver a challenging design and build concept at this luxury villa

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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www.prolandscaper.ae

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PORTFOLIO

n the heart of Palm Jumeirah, this luxury villa project shows how a beautiful landscape design can both complement the exterior of an existing property and the natural surrounding landscape, but nonetheless stand in isolation as an aesthetically striking outdoor area. The project implemented a range of landscaping methods including irrigation, pool installation, softscaping, hardscaping, construction and bespoke carpentry. The client had outlined a brief with a challenging design and build concept. They were clear they wanted to adopt a large swimming pool and Jacuzzi but with enough space to include a comfortable ‘break out’ area, all whilst embracing a Moroccan style.

www.prolandscaper.ae

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Specification Prior to the design stages the land on site was extended further, maximising the available space. The pool was installed running parallel along the beach front. An infinity pool was the obvious choice to generate a feeling of tranquility, almost resembling swimming in natural waters. With eye-level views of the sea, integrated sun beds around the pool only added to the serene, laid-back ambience. Adjacent to the swimming pool, a large Jacuzzi was placed separately and slightly raised. The Jacuzzi itself is unique in shape, outlining a symbolic Arabic pattern. Installing such an unusual formation wasn’t easy, but was necessary to achieve the client’s brief. Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015 25

18/05/2015 13:30

PORTFOLIO

AN INFINITY POOL WAS THE OBVIOUS STYLE CHOICE GENERATING A FEELING OF TRANQUILITY

On TerraVerde’s recommendation, the tiling in both pools was distinctive for this type of private project. Handmade Thai, cracked glass mosaic tiles were fitted and contribute to the artistic bearing that both the pool and the Jacuzzi have on the garden’s look. Entertainment Opposite both pools is a an entertaining area complete with stainless steel BBQ and complete outdoor kitchen. Natural red meranti wood was used for the decking to attain a rustic natural effect, together with beige travertine around the cooking area. A black granite worktop provides a great contrast in both colour and texture and adds a slightly modern twist to this otherwise organic set. The materials used in this inviting communal space are of the highest quality. The kitchen appliances, sourced from Viking, also reflect this and included a fridge, ice maker and cooler, all of which were covered by a custommade pergola developed by TerraVerde. Planting An array of exotic plantation was used in amongst the hardscape. Asparagus ferns planted next to the pool areas give a dappled effect from the sun. Coconut trees are located in various spots to showcase a utopian sensibility, reinforced with foxtails. Hard landscaping TerraVerde opted for a more minimalistic flavor when it came to the driveway. Limestone paves the drive, visually dark in colour and extremely durable. The entrance, with its set of majestic beige travertine steps with fixed LED lights, is at the side of the building and leads past a contemporary, crystal black water feature with stainless steel cladding. Another set of these steps connects the garden to the beach, separated by a fitted shower positioned so users can rinse away sand before dipping into the luxurious pool.

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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(Overleaf) Luxury residential landscape project in Palm Jumeirah

Unique Arabic style Jacuzzi raised and adjacent to the infinity pool

The design is currently shortlisted as a finalist for this year’s Interior Design and Architecture Awards

The pool before renovation

Construction site during the works

The design involved improving this typically neglected area

The master plan

The rear of the property prior to the extension

www.prolandscaper.ae

20/05/2015 15:51

PORTFOLIO

PROJECT DETAILS Luxury Villa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai PROJECT VALUE 1.8 million AED SIZE Lot area 1,245m2 (hardscape 842m2 softscape 275m2)

trim, nocce colour proposed location for coconut palm

wooden trellis & door pump room location

proposed location for coconut palm proposed location for coconut palm

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ABOUT TERRAVERDE Created in 2004, TerraVerde has successfully built a region-wide reputation for creating exceptional, award winning landscapes and gardens. Producing landscapes for both the commercial and domestic sectors, its philosophy of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;enhancing the environment and sustainabilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; has helped TerraVerde become a leader in its eld o pro iding interior design erra Verde continues to emphasise exceptional standards of service. The integrity of its solutions is the result of both inspired design and excellent project management. www.terraverde.ae

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FEATURE TECHNICAL

INSIDE OUT OUTSIDE IN UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR DESIGN

A seamless connection between inside and out maximises perception of space and makes for a harmonious domestic environment, says interior designer, Anji Connell

Using a side return: Aedes Studio 28

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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The location, setting and your view are all determinants for both indoor and outdoor design. A fabulous view (if you are lucky enough to have one) maximises your interior space by leading your eye outside, making it feel larger, lighter and more open. If you are not lucky enough to have an exciting urban skyline, rural or sea view, you need to look at ways to cheat the eye. An ‘eye catcher’, something placed in the landscape as a focal point to ‘catch the eye’ can make a real difference. Art curator Alison Pickett told me: “I think the most important factor in the transition from interior to exterior is to make it as seamless as

possible. The placing of a sculpture draws the eye through the interior to the landscape. That is for me what unites and links the two spaces.” With sea views, you might consider sandy colours, soothing blues and decoration with a seaside aesthetic, it does not need to be a full on seaside representation. For urban views that are vibrant and bright, consider using more neutrals in your interiors to bring focus to your fabulous vistas. Rural views inspire you to invite nature indoors. If you have a window wall, it is best to leave the view as unobstructed as possible. Interior space is visually maximised by an outdoor vista and light and physically by sagacious decoration and perhaps extending into any outside space you may have. Can you utilise any space from a garden, terrace, or side return as an outdoor room or open up your space by adding a balcony; if your outside space is limited how about a Juliet balcony or a skylight? If you are looking out to a wall, you can improve it with planting, a mirror or sculpture, www.prolandscaper.ae

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FEATURE IF YOU ARE LOOKING OUT TO A WALL YOU CAN IMPROVE IT WITH PLANTING, A MIRROR OR SCULPTURE, WATER FEATURE AND LIGHTING

An Eye Catcher, found on www.deborahsilver.com Improving the view of a wall, in the garden of landscape designer Chris Moss. Photograph by Marcus Harper

End wall ideas: Canny Design Australia

water feature and lighting. Lighting should not be over looked in any decorative scheme inside or out. If your outside space is truly limited, clever thinking is required and this is where a professional can help.

A HARMONIOUS DESIGN NEEDS TO HAVE CONTINUITY IN STYLE AND IN THE COLOURS YOU USE, LINKING THE INDOOR AND OUTDOOR AREAS You will need to check with your local council to see if you need planning permission to extend. Budget will also play its part. A harmonious design needs to have continuity in style and in the colours you use, linking the indoor and outdoor areas. Allowing your exterior views to guide your colour choice inside, as well as the ‘look and feel’ of your home in combination with your functional needs are all important factors in creating harmony. Your personality should also shine through, you must feel comfortable in your own home. Matching your inside and outside space does not need to involve a literal reflection but www.prolandscaper.ae

Anji connel.indd 29

Or something fun... Adagio Outdoor Swing by Francesco Rota

it is important that they do not jar. “Clients often underestimate the importance of linking inside to out. Particularly in the UK where the weather isn’t great we spend most of our time viewing the garden from inside. Planting around the house anchors the house to the site, it also allows for it to be seen from inside. Colours can be linked to the interior scheme,” said Andrew Duff, RHS show garden judge and director of the garden design faculty at Inchbald School of Design. Award winning interior designer Yasmin Chopin takes this further: “Our physical and mental wellbeing is dependent on our environment; what we see, touch, smell and hear. Each aspect must be considered in design to create harmony in our home. Interiors cannot be thought of in isolation and it is essential to understand a property, for example, knowledge of its history and how it sits in context with its neighbours. What lies beyond, in the visible landscape through the windows and what we experience as we enter and leave a property all have a palpable effect on our expectations, mood and consequently our relationship with the property. A designer’s role is to make the experience as enjoyable and positive as possible.”

Push-out balcony

ABOUT ANJI CONNELL Internationally recognised Interior Architect and Landscape Designer Anji Connell is a detail obsessed Inchbald graduate, and has been collaborating with artisans and craftsmen to create bespoke and unique interiors for a discerning clientele since 1986. Anji is a stylist, feature writer and lover of ‘all things art and design’. www.anjiconnellinteriordesignacid.com

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18/05/2015 13:25

FEATURE

WALK THIS WAY In cities renowned for their towering skyscrapers, more and more attention is being paid to what’s beneath your feet. John Harte, managing director of Lateral Design Studio, explains why… There’s never been a better time for urban designers and planners in cities like Dubai to look at the latest trends over in the UK. There they focus their attention on landscape products that have been traditionally overlooked, including channel drains with designed covers plus co-ordinated tree grates and street furniture. As developers are asked to set aside 25% of a projects’ area to environmentally responsible landscaping, we look at some of the products available that will lift your project to the next level. Here’s our top four…

Aqualevel by Lateral Design Studio. 70-100% recycled covers Aqualevel is a new level access channel drain for commercial buildings which protects against water ingress. It works with a wide range of glazed systems, and can be seamlessly extended to run into hard landscaped areas.

It provides you with a specifically designed integral drain, which fully protects your property from the elements, and allows you to use a Aquascape designed drain choice of architectural quality covers. covers by Lateral Design Studio. The covers come in a range of designs and 70-100% recycled covers materials including stainless steel and cast iron, These covers deliver on function but truly excel which means they can be tailored to suit both modern and traditional schemes. The drain in design. The Aquascape range includes channel drain covers, manhole covers and tree channels and components are powder coated grates which have been specified in large urban to any standard RAL colour, to match your door system perfectly. Aqualevel can be schemes throughout the UK, including Blackburn Cathedral and in Edinburgh. Available installed in any location or level including basements and balconies. in 70% recycled stainless steel and 100% Pictured above: An Aqualevel ‘Geo Squares’ recycled cast iron, they can be supplied with a cover in 70% recycled stainless steel range of channel drains to suit each project. Pictured below: ‘Argo’ design cast iron channel drain cover, 100% recycled

Channel Drain LED Lighting To accompany your architectural quality drain covers, you can even have LED lighting fitted within the channel to finish your project to perfection. These lights enable you to illuminate your channels at night, providing a stunning setting for your designed covers. Pictured to the right: Channel drain cover, ‘Morisco’ design, complete with LED lighting Tree Grates by Lateral Design Studio. 100% recycled Tree grates add flair and identity to your project, yet blend effortlessly into their surroundings. The grates provide space for trees to grow, whilst allowing for extra pedestrian traffic around your project. They come with supporting metal framework too. Pictured below: ‘Oblio’ design tree grate, made from 100% recycled cast iron

ABOUT LATERAL DESIGN STUDIO Lateral Design Studio has 30 years of experience and transforms basic construction products into pieces of art. The components it produces are typically overlooked by mass manufacturers and include designer internal and external drain covers, fan plates, radiator covers, floor registers, screens and more. They can work with landscape designers, architects and planners to achieve an overall cohesive design for water management. This includes the functional collection and safe distribution of water through controlled channels, finished with one of its designed covers. www.lateraldesignstudio.co.uk

Pro Landscaper Gulf / June 2015

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www.prolandscaper.ae

19/05/2015 11:27

PRODUCTS

rass: Easi-Belgra

Easig

A look at what’s new in landscaping...

Independently tested and approved, Flowpoint easily meets the demands of heavily trafficked areas and has been used on many prestigious projects with excellent results. Fast and efficient to apply, Flowpoint flowable paving grout, is suitable for most paving types which can be opened to pedestrians in just one hour and vehicular traffic in four hours. Mixed easily with water, Flowpoint can fill joint widths of 5-50mm and joint depths of up to 200mm in one pour.

Instarmac: Flowpoint

www.instarmacinternational.com

Exterior Decking: Larch Burnt White

via

Easi-Belgravia Super-Soft is a brand new top of the range artificial grass product perfect for all applications while featuring an innovative new yarn technology, designed to British standards. Based on Easigrass’ top selling Easi-Mayfair, the Easi-Belgravia Super-Soft has been re-designed to include additional features including a softer yarn and an even deeper colour. The Easi-Belgravia Super-Soft combines softness and yarn memory so it quickly returns to shape when it has been walked on. This grass is exclusive to Easigrass and cannot be purchased at this quality anywhere else.

www.easigrass.ae

Green-tech: gtTrophy Luxury The ancient Japanese art of burning timber to provide a beautiful, long lasting product is a technique that Exterior Decking has proven expertise. Shou Sugi Ban is comprised of four different varieties of Burnt Larch Cladding including the bespoke Larch Burnt White cladding. Exterior Decking employ a combination of scrapping, brushing, burning and colouring processes to produce this vibrant product. Larch Burnt White is durable and is used as internal or external wall cladding.

www.exteriordecking.co.uk

Green-tech’s select range of gtTrophy artificial turf is incredibly realistic and durable. It has superior woven polypropylene backing with fibre locked fleece and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It is available in 200 and 400 width or cut lengths are available on request. Different pile heights are available; gtTrophy Luxury enjoys a pile height of 40 mm and is a dense, high piled ultra-soft non-filled synthetic grass carpet made from a softer yarn to give a more luxurious, natural looking grass.

www.green-tech.co.uk

SureSet: Permeable resin bound paving

SureSet specialises exclusively in permeable resin bound paving. Working in the UK and the UAE, through a Dubai-based agent, SureSet is perfect for pathways, pool surrounds, roof gardens, play areas, terraces and public spaces. With its unique combination of sustainability, creativity and practicality, SureSet offers much more flexibility than traditional paving, a good example being the installation of a wadi at Mushrif Central Park in Dubai. Cold mixed on site and hand laid, SureSet delivers a smooth, durable, low maintenance surface that is covered by its 15 year guarantee.

www.sureset.co.uk www.prolandscaper.ae