landscape september 2011

m i d d l e e a s t s e p t 2 0 1 1

� i www.landscape-me.com i september 2011

RiYadH: King Khalid airport Road: tel. No.: 00966 (1) 4655555 thalia street tel. No.: 00966 (1) 2172022 Khorais Road Opening soon

JeddaH: al andalus tel. No.: 00966 (2) 6686666 King Road tel. No.: 00966 (2) 6686666

KHOBaR: Coast Road tel. No.: 00966 (3) 8590066 amwaj mall Opening soon

dUBai Jumeirah Road 1 tel. No: 00971 (4) 3445544

Plants-Pots-Fountains-Garden Furniture-Landscaping and Flower Arrangements

A Member of

Email: [email protected] PO Box 4756 Riyadh 11412 KSA Email: [email protected] PO Box 181581 Dubai UAE Website: www.sultangardencenter.com


For free subscription and to view the magazine please visit our website:

RiYadH: King Khalid airport Road: tel. No.: 00966 (1) 4655555 thalia street tel. No.: 00966 (1) 2172022 Khorais Road Opening soon

JeddaH: al andalus tel. No.: 00966 (2) 6686666 King Road tel. No.: 00966 (2) 6686666

KHOBaR: Coast Road tel. No.: 00966 (3) 8590066 amwaj mall Opening soon

dUBai Jumeirah Road 1 tel. No: 00971 (4) 3445544

Plants-Pots-Fountains-Garden Furniture-Landscaping and Flower Arrangements

A Member of

Email: [email protected] PO Box 4756 Riyadh 11412 KSA Email: [email protected] PO Box 181581 Dubai UAE Website: www.sultangardencenter.com

This MonthEDITOR’S NOTE

It’s that time of year again, we survived the long summer and most are looking forward to the cooler months ahead. There’s no better way to rush in the cooler temperatures than by planning for a new swimming pool or water feature.

Incase you are undecided about which design is right for you or your client; we’ve selected the crème de la crème of swimming pools from around the Middle East, including the brand new Monte Carlo Beach Club, in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island. Then we have old favourites like the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, Hilton Sharm El Sheikh Egypt, Kempinski Dead Sea Jordan, the Chedi Muscat and the Regency Kuwait Hotel.

Beyond the region, we’ve featured the luxury Lavender Bay Resort, which is comprised of 300 hectares fronted by a �km beach in Thessaly, Greece. Oppenheim Architecture and Design LLP designed the luxury resort. See page 50 for another breathe taking resort at the Chapulco Lagoon in Mexico: From stagnant waters to park around water by Jimena Martignoni.

If it’s a simple but stylish water feature that you’re interested in then look to Francis Landscapes for all your ideas. And no water feature or fountain is complete without LED lighting solutions provided by Amirali Somji from Silverfox Contracting for lighting up your whole garden whether it’s hotel surroundings or a small villa garden.

T

Nada Abdel Khalek

www.landscape-me.comThe First Specialised Landscape magazine in the Middle East

Published by:

MEMEdia Publishing FZ LLCiMPZ

PO Box 485005, dubai, UaETelephone: +971 4 4470927

Fax: +971 4 4470928

Managing EditorNada abdel Khalek

Copy EditorJohn Hampton

Sales ManagerBoushra dinnawi

art directorandy Mondaya

ContributorsNatasha TourishHeba Hashem

Elif BonelliRochelle Greayer

Mario PisaniJimena Martignoni

Eman Kamel

Printed byal Nisr Publishing LLC

Webmasterwww.pdinventive.com

Landscape is distributed free of charge in KSa, UaE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman,

Jordan, Eqypt, and Lebanon byEmirates Post UaE

m i d d l e e a s t s e p t 2 0 1 1

Untitled-1 1 9/2/11 12:20:05 PM


ContentsSeptember 2011- Issue 51

44

2418

50

18 Bestswimmingpoolsin theMiddleEast

24 WaterfeaturesbyFredricFrancis

32 ThyeCrystalFountains

36HamptonFlowerShow2011

38 Womeninlandscape

44 LavenderBayResort

50 Chapulcolagoons,Maxico

3 i www.landscape-me.com i september 2011

Contents

Landscape I www.landscape-me.com I March 2011 �

‘Kasco Marine’ have a complete range of products to meetyour decorative water feature and aeration needs for all landscape

pond & lake applications.

WHY AERATE PONDS? Increased circulation and oxygenation of

thermalstratified water helps to stimulate the natural biodegradation of organic waste (such as grass

clippings, leaves, and run-off) and pollutants.Promotes an allowance for greater densities of fish.Oxygen is circulated and absorbed into the water,

thereby increasing aerobic decomposition of sunken organic matter.

KASCO PRODUCT BENEFITSINDUSTRIAL STRENGTHAll Kasco products are designed and manufactured in the USA with heavy-duty stainless steel components for continuous operation, extended motor life and corrosion prevention (even in salt water.)

ENERGY EFFICIENTKasco’s 1450 rpm motors mean lower power consumption and longer life for seals and bearings. Kasco’s low amp power draw units greatly reduce power costs.

HIGHLY DEPENDABLEKasco units are designed to operate continuously with minimal maintenance, even in shallow water. Our fountains are the least likely to clog of any manufacturer because of Kasco’s deflector technology, prop guard and standard bottom intake screen.

EASY TO USE AND INSTALLAll Kasco models are easy to install, move and operate. Fountain spray nozzles are easily switched out in only a few minutes.

CompliantAll Kasco Surface Aerators are approved to CE standards

WarrantedAll Kasco Surface Aerators are warranted for 2 years

Take control with Kasco AerationComply with regulatory water quality standards!

Help control mosquito populations!Help control algae!Prevent fish kills!

Control foul pond odor!

Robust Air Diffusers

Pond Aerators

Decorative Fountains Fountain Lighting

Water Circulators

• Fountains• Aerators• Circulators

Intelligent Irrigation SolutionsP.O. Box 16781 Jebel All, United Arab Emirates • Tel.: 971-4-2221217 • Fax: 971-4-2289130.Email: [email protected] • Website: www.fitcoirrigation.com

A Complete Range of Quality Products for the Irrigation Professional• Micro Irrigation • Bubblers • Sprays Rotors • Sprinklers • Automation Products• Control Valves • Weather Stations • Hydraulic Sensors • Back Flow Protection • Mist Cooling • Hose End

Intelligent Irrigation Solutions

Landscape Mar'11 Section_1.indd � 2/26/11 2:58:48 PM


News & Events

The practice’s masterplan is a major milestone in the realisation of the project, named 10x10 because of its predicted $10 billion dollar

value and ten-year delivery timeframe and, as one of the largest in Iraq, is central to reconstruction in the country.

Director John Turner said: “The completion of the concept masterplan is a major milestone in the creation of a sustainable community with a strong identity for over 500,000 inhabitants and which will ease overcrowding in Sadr City, with successful delivery having depended on long-term and close partnering with the client, and the world-class skills, expertise and experience of our diverse team of international masterplanning experts.”

The practice’s team has worked closely with client the Mayoralty of Baghdad to deliver a concept masterplan, together with implementation tender documentation and detailed sector masterplans, as well as training in the UK for members of the client’s team.

The practice secured the appointment through an open competition which began in 2009 and, following the submission of a proposal in association with DATA Consultants, the practices were confirmed the preferred bidders in late 2009, with design work starting in April 2010.

The client has invited design and build tenders, and is currently assessing submissions, with the practice looking to secure further appointments to support the realisation of the project.

Broadway Malyan completes concept masterplan for $10 billion 10-year project in Iraq

international architecture, urbanism and design practice Broadway Malyan has delivered the concept masterplan for the ‘10x10’ project in iraq, involving a 17km2 extension of Sadr City, Baghdad, and the creation of New Sadr City.

Preparations for IPM DUBAI 2011 are at full speed ahead: The most important horticultural fair in the entire Gulf region is being held from 26 to 28 September at the Airport Expo Dubai. More than 110 exhibitors from 20 countries will be presenting products and services in everything to do with plants, technology, sales promotion, plant care and plant logistics, as well as floristry. With regard to the latter, trend is emerging for growing numbers of floristry providers to take advantage of the platform in Dubai. This is because throughout the region, the demand for trendsetting, high-quality floral decorations is strongly increasing.

Dubai as a trade fair venue is of major interest for international business as a whole. And the Green Industry, too, is able to benefit from the excellent transport infrastructure to be found in

the Emirate, which is renowned the most important key trading hub on the Persian Gulf. IPM DUBAI is becoming increasingly international. While the exhibitors at the last event came from 17 different countries, this time 20 nations will be represented. In 2011, companies from Bangladesh, Lithuania, Greece and Japan will be exhibiting at IPM DUBAI for the first time. Businesses from Egypt, Germany, the USA, Thailand and Turkey will be represented at joint stands. An attractive event programme will provide insight into a range of different topics and working environments, e.g. with the top-class floristry shows presented by the FDF, the Association of German Florists, or a seminar on horticultural technology.

Prominent patron highlights the event’s importance

For the sixth time in succession, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum has agreed to assume the patronage of IPM DUBAI. The event is also being supported by various eminent institutions, including the Dubai Municipality, the Ministry of Environment and Water, the Dubai Flower Center and the Dubai World Trade Center.

At the same time as IPM DUBAI, WOP DUBAI also takes place for the third time. This leading event for fruit and vegetables in the Middle East is presenting a comprehensive range of products and services for the perishable goods trade covering the entire production chain – from the grower to the processor, and from there to the consumer. The two events are once again expected to attract a total of around 4,000 visitors.

110 exhibitors from 20 countries will be presenting their products and services at the airport Expo Center

Growing interest in floristry


Turkey 2011

Phone : +90.312 442 28 20 (Pbx)Fax : +90.312 442 26 96

EURASIAPLANT FAIR

15 - 18 December 2011Istanbul Fair Center

Yeşilköy – ISTANBUL / TURKEY

Fair Co.

The Largest Specialization Fair of Plants Sector with25.000m2 Exhibition Area and over 200 Exhibitors

from 15 different countries in Turkey, Middle East and Eurasia Regions

Flower Show Turkey, organized by CYF Fair Organization Ltd. Co., is the largest organization, related to plants sector in The

Middle East, Balkans and Eurasia.At the Fair, which includes over 200 exhibitors from Turkey and 15 different countries like Netherland, Italy, Germany, France, Spain, USA, Ecuador, will be possible to find a combination of a wide range of products and services like indoor and outdoor ornament plants, seasonal ornament plants, ornament plants in pots, Mediterranean plants, cut flowers, pots, peat and fertilizers, plant nutrients, greenhouse and nursery related materials, rolled grass, hydro seeding and landscape applications.At the Fair, which is held with the participation of the leading nurseries in Europe and Turkey, landscape applications along with the ornamental plants and flowers, are also included. Furthermore the efficiency of the fair is increased with bilateral meetings, sectoral seminars, symposiums and various activities.The development of cooperation between The Middle East and Turkey seems quite easy for many reasons, such as expertise on this

issue and experience in this region of Turkish Companies, acquiring the each climate-appropriate plants, close distance to import and cultural affinities.Flower Show is held in Istanbul, which is the meeting point of continents, is the most effective commercial platform that allows the sector representatives to meet and build cooperation. In total with 25.000 m2 gross, 12.000 m2 net exhibition areas, the fair is also close to the Ataturk Airport (Istanbul). Post-flight, it takes only 3 minutes by taxi from The Airport to the fair ground.With the size of exhibition area and the quality of the participants, Flower Show Turkey looks like the only possible meeting point of professionals of the sector in Eurasia and The Middle East. By participating in this meeting, companies of the Middle East also can capture opportunities for the new partnerships and imports.All information about the fair is available on the official website http://www.flowershow.com.tr/en . On the website, it is possible to find all the necessary conditions for participation and information, while is being provided free on-line invitation for the visitors.

“The largest specialization fair of plant sector in the Middle East,

Balkans and Russia is opening up.”

Growing interest in floristry


News & Events

An investigation on the theme of urban stone furnishing involving designers, companies, and about ten cities. The involved municipal administrations will provide materials and information on an area within their City to investigate the relation between new design and an existing venue of historical/artistic interest characterized by the use of stone (a

square, the area in front of a building, an avenue, a courtyard…). Half-way between the formal and conceptual experimentation typical of design and the public urban space, the event will be repeated on other occasions in different cities.

FROM NEST TO SHELL (4th ed.), stone design for the city Future Design @ SUN: the future Outdoor

Design trends on display at the Show. Products, projects, and signs of future Outdoor Living. From the designers under 35 selected in the international Outdoor Design competition SUN.LAB. Theme for 2011: experiencing the city - Multi-purpose and polymorphous benches, cross-functional modules, racks and floors, urban igloos and solar BBQs, new-style drains and sliding door spins, techno and eco-chic seats, including prêt a porter, as well as coatings, fountains, ashtrays, totems and stands, baby traffic lights, flower-boxes and separate waste collection containers, vertical green and self-portrait frames.Objects and systems conceived, designed, and offered by the students of the Product Design course. With a focus on their use by all age groups and special care for those over 60 on one hand and children on the other. Open-air as a privileged venue for contacts, sharing, and generational interaction, open-air as an object of investigations on different features and characteristics, from lighting to relax, from physical exercise to wellbeing to body care…

SUN.LAB, 4th edition, EXPERIENCING THE CITY – sponsors: Parà, Montecolino, Generoso DesignFuture Design @ SUN: the future Outdoor Design trends on display at the Show. Products, projects, and signs of future Outdoor Living. From the designers under 35 selected in the international Outdoor Design competition SUN.LAB. Theme for 2011: experiencing the city - Multi-purpose and polymorphous benches, cross-functional modules, racks and floors, urban igloos and solar BBQs, new-style drains and sliding door spins, techno and eco-chic seats, including prêt a porter, as well as coatings, fountains, ashtrays, totems and stands, baby traffic lights, flower-boxes and separate waste collection containers, vertical green and self-portrait frames.

OPEN AIR GENERATIONS - La Sapienza University, RomeObjects and systems conceived, designed, and offered by the students of the Product Design course. With a focus on their use by all age groups and special care for those over 60 on one hand and children on the other. Open-air as a privileged venue for contacts, sharing, and generational interaction, open-air as an object of investigations on different features and characteristics, from lighting to relax, from physical exercise to wellbeing to body care…

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE DESIGN - POLI.design, Milan Polytechnic UniversityT&T and SUN are the academic partners of the only High Specialization Course in Europe aimed at professional designers of public and private outdoor spaces. In Rimini, during the days of the show, POLI.design will introduce projects aimed at redesigning the physical and conceptual boundaries

of existing locations according to the upcoming evolutions and requirements of inside-out living.Natural_HOSTING – by Marco CortesiAt the main entrance to the fairground, a volume non-volume outside and inside which the environment penetrates and settles, a modular, expandable, or sealable space that follows the progress of the day, adjusting to seasons and expanding its configuration and usage options. Full flexibility, energy independence, and care for the environment are the musts of an installation of high architectural, stylistic, and emotional impact. A shapable module which can be fitted with endless variations, from a bathing establishment to a reception, from a gym to a wellness centre, from an info-point to a hospitality facility and a guest room in a natural resort, with private SPA and gym. Technology, environment, elegance, and cross-functionality.

NEW GARDENS FOR CITY-LIFE - 3rd edition, by Paysage – Architettura del PaesaggioThree days of international workshops, a process that starts from urban gardens and parks and ends at the periphery, where the landscape turns to countryside and the countryside turns to tourism, where garden design turns into landscape and the landscape turns into agriculture. And then new low-impact hospitality concepts, cross-functional furnishing, between design and ecology. Lastly, focus will be made on the issue of soil, with discussions on such innovative topics as draining and sustainable floors. In the area set up by Paysage, the winners of the competition SEASIDE FACILITIES. ARCHITECTURES FOR SEA SHORES, promoted by the Sardinia Region, will be invited to participate.

� i www.landscape-me.com i september 2011 57I www.landscape-me.com I May 2011

We Supply Hi-End ProductsFor Your Irrigation Needs

KNOWLEDGE SHARING • QUALITY COMMITMENT • CONTINUOUS LEARNING • ECOLOGICAL AWARENESS

www.meac.net

USATECNIDRO

The Irrigation Innovators M E S C

MEAC IranTel.:Fax:Islamic Republic of Iran

MEAC QatarTel.: +974 432 6598Fax: +974 431 1968P.O. Box 3082 Doha Qatar

MEAC UAETel.: +971 4 886 1151Fax: +971 4 886 1152P.O. Box 261237 Jebel Ali, UAE

MEAC SaudiTel.: +966 1 493 8627Fax: +966 1 493 8038P.O. Box 49921 Riyadh 11513, KSA

Landscape May'11 Section_1.indd 57 4/23/11 4:24:59 PM


Innovatiove Products

As we live in a dryland region ponds have been the exception in residential landscapes. However this norm is starting to change with innovative landscape designers now often including tastefully designed natural water features in order to enhance the beauty of residential landscape environments. These ponds are often stocked with exotic & colourful varieties of fish to further add interest.

There has been a trend in recent years for housing developments to have common landscaped park areas which include lakes & ponds both for beautification and to act as water storage reservoirs from which water is pumped for use in irrigation of the landscape. These ponds are fed by various water sources (treated industrial waste water, treated sewage effluent water and to an ever reducing degree potable desalinated water- which is very expensive).

When it comes to improving your property value have you ever considered a pond as part for your Landscape?

Clear, Clean, beautiful Water! – Kasco Marine has the solutions

Whether it be for residential or public landscapes, for lakes or ponds large and small, Water stagnation, Algae, Odor and maintaining healthy fish stocks are very important issues in ensuring an aesthically pleasing environment in these areas. A neglected pond can adversely effect the beauty of the landscape and may be a deterrent to potential home buyers.

Many tools are available to greatly enhance pond aesthetics and improve water quality.

There are a several effective treatments for suppression of plant overgrowth and foul odors in ponds. Many chemical treatments offer quick results in reduction of unwanted plant material. Bacterial treatments are available to eliminate organics in the pond and reduce the nutrients plants use for growth. Dyes can be used to beautify the water and some block out sunlight to help reduce plant growth. Various Flocculant agents & filtration mediums

Typical Kasco Aerator/Water Fountain installation Layout

Kasco Marine products are marketed exclusively throughout the Middle East by Fitco Industries, Jebel Ali ‘Free Zone’, UAE.Tel.: 04-2221217 • Fax: 04-2289130Email: [email protected]: www.fitcoirrigation.com

Whether in a booming housing market or depressed one, a well maintained pond can increase your property value (and sale turnaround time).

are also available to help clear water of suspended sediments. Even manual removal of weeds and bottom sediment may sometimes be required.

However, the single best means available for total pond management and water quality is aeration. Aeration and it’s side effect of water circulation is the key component to a healthy, well maintained pond. Aeration can come in many forms including surface agitator style aerators, fountains, diffused or bottom aeration, or gravity flow such as waterfalls etc.

Aeration occurs naturally from wind action at the air-water interface as well as through the biological process of photosynthesis with pond plants giving off oxygen. Unfortunately, natural aeration is not enough to keep a pond looking its best.

Supplementary aeration and water circulation helps to increase decomposition of organic matter by allowing aerobic bacteria a more hospitable environment to eat the organics and limit nutrients. The physical action of the water moving and circulation throughout the pond thus will help deter plant growth.

In summary, aeration and water circulation help the natural processes of a pond and nature to work more effectively. Aeration does not solve all pond problems and additional means may need to be implemented in the pond management plan however aeration should always be considered a key component to improved pond water quality.

Kasco aeration systems are available in a wide range of convenient easy to install modular formats including optional light kits to further enhance aesthetics for a variety of applications.

�0 i www.landscape-me.com i september 2011

Swimming pools are a wonderful luxury to have at the time of hot, scorching summer days. However, for most families, the ability to spend

time together in their pool is usually during the evenings or even at night. While a dark moonlit swim can be enjoyable and relaxing, for many especially with children, lack of illumination makes it too risky to enjoy. In some cities, it is even illegal to not have your lights on while the pool is in use.

So one would think that a lot of R&D would go into a product that is almost a necessity. Unfortunately not… until very recently. Pool lighting has mostly been an inactive segment of the pool construction industry. For years halogen lights dominated, and remained the (one and only) choice for installers – they are easy to install, offer reasonably good luminance and are very cheap. As one would expect, there are a few shortcomings too, but lets focus on one major drawback – they are extremely boring. For years people had very little choice but to put up with yellow tinted halogens, or extremely expensive fiber optics with its endless limitations. The result – everyone’s pool looked almost exactly the same at night.

Nowadays however, with so many pools being built usingbeautiful colored mosaics, exposed aggregates and glass-beads – you need to bring out those vibrant colors to compliment the rest of your landscape – and this is where LEDs work like magic.

LED pool lighting is becoming ever more popular for a number of reasons. They are energy efficient; LED pool lights use very little power when they are running (up to 10 times less than a standard halogen bulb, depending on model). As well, they produce a nice, bright light, effectively illuminating the pool with fewer lights than you may otherwise need. The LED bulbs themselves also last for an incredibly long time (up to 100000 hours they say), so you never have to change bulbs again! In fact, by the time they burn out, you’ll probably be ready for a whole new pool lighting system.

But lets forget that they are energy efficient, last 20 times longer, and are easier to install than an Ikea cupboard, forget all that… the principal advantage LEDs have over halogens is the fact that they offer exotic colors such as azure, indigo, crimson, emerald &icterine(notice the exotic names?). Imagine a pool with coral green mosaics and you set your lights to purple – the result would be fantastic. Combine that effect with subtle outdoor lighting, a beautiful landscape, the trickling sound from your koi pond or water feature – all this in your backyard haven!

I remember a few years back we decide to give 5 clients a free colored LED light upgrade just so we can gauge how the ordinary pool owner accepts new and efficient technology. Out of the five, three sent us warm “thank you” emails, one actually came by to pay for

something he was convinced was a mistake upgrade, and the last one sent us a bouquet of flowers and a cake… I presuming she was delighted. After devouring that cake is when we decided to completely drop halogen lights for LEDs as standard in all our pools.

Having been in the pool building business for close to three decades, we realized they may be a little more expensive to put in hence adding to our cost of construction, but giving your client the flexibility and control of what color their pool is and how “different” it looks from their neighbors is definitely worth the extra money.

Then there was this myth about how complicated they were to install, underpowered they were, that we would need to install 2 LEDs for every halogen, etcetc. Thankfully technology moves ahead fast; today, there are a few models that would easily put an ordinary 100W halogen bulb to shame while only requiring 20W of electricity.

The road to searching for a brand to represent hasn’t been very smooth though. Looking for a reliable supplier with a good quality light is difficult to come by. We tried a few European and Chinese brands at first but often found either customer support or product quality to be less than standard. Luckily at that time, we got in contact with an American brand called Professional Pool Products (www.

LEds there be lights

Here’s to better and

brigHter Led pooL

LigHt in tHe future – and

a Lot more fLowers

and cakes.

New products

by amirali somjigeneral manager

silverfox contracting

�� i www.landscape-me.com i september 2011

propoolpro.com) who, although at first thought claim to be pool product manufactures, are solely into the pool lighting business. They currently have a few models that have worked really well for us over the last few years, and are busy designing and testing newer ones that should be ready for use within a few months.

Although the top option for our clients is the multi-colored version, for the traditional crowdthatprefer to steer clear of fancy colors, there’s always the option of ‘super white’ and ‘warm white’ LEDs that offer the same advantages of colored LEDs, well, without the colors. Also available is an exclusive all-stainless steel body that looks fantastic in high-end projects and for people who simply enjoy the finer things in life.

Operation is incredibly simple - you have the option to set the light to the color of your choice or you can have the lights cycle through the different colors at a predetermined interval. A remote or a switch can operate multi-colored LEDs or even fixed-colored lights depending on the system one chooses to install.

Pool lighting was once considered to be something realistic by only those with deep pockets. Nowadays, however, LED pool lighting is being widely used and is an attainable option for those who wish to shed some color and brightness to their evening swims. Here’s to better and brighter LED pool light in the future – and a lot more flowers and cakes.

About the author:

Amirali Somji is a second-generation pool builder, certified pool service professional and business owner of Silver Fox Contracting & MAK Pools in Dubai. Created in 1981 by his father, business has grown from a one-man-show to a 100+ people force that is effortlessly working to bring about a refined pool culture to the Middle East – from bespoke pool construction services, exclusive Spanish mosaics supplies, in-house water testing facilitiesand a retail pool outlet. Amirali, of course, isalso an avid LED pool lighting reseller.

LEds there be lights


EcoSmart Fire is much more than a flicker of an ingenious idea. It’s a compelling reality. EcoSmart Fireplaces are environmentally friendly, vent free open fireplaces that produce a magnificently warm dancing flame. From hand crafted freestanding pieces of “fire” furniture, to grates

for traditional fireplace conversion, through to firebox inserts for built-in custom designs and burner kits for bespoke settings - EcoSmart Fire offers a complete collection of versatile and award winning fireplace solutions that make having an open flame incredibly easy, whatever the setting, and at the same time being good for the environment.

Transform your outdoor space with Azur System

New products

DISHWith its authentic rust finish, stylish contours and portable construction, the EcoSmart Fire Dish is the perfect drawcard for entertaining outdoors. Specifically designed to use on your balcony deck, patio, courtyard or pool pavers, Dish captures the warmth and ambiance of a campfire without dangerous sparks and messy soot.Constructed of durable, all-weather black steel, the circular design revives the long-forgotten tradition of sitting around an open fire on a starry night.h 235 x ø 600 (mm)h 9.3 x ø 23.6 [in]

BULBStylish and unique, the EcoSmart Fire Bulb combines the raw element of fire with organic-inspired design, brought to life within a contemporary steel wire frame. The EcoSmart Fire Bulb is fully portable and illuminates and inspires any indoor or outdoor space. And its curvaceous design complements modern landscaped garden environments with grace and ease.h 504 x ø 416 (mm)h 19.9 x ø 16.4 [in]

STIXAcclaimed, Barcelona-based designer Hiroshi Tsunoda has created a fireplace with a contemporary twist on the traditional campfire. Known for exploring the possibilities of geometric figures, Hiroshi’s unique EcoSmart Fire is both visually striking and practical – particularly in an outdoor environment. Sturdily constructed from stainless steel, Stix is set to be a headturner on patios and pergolas around the world.h 780 x ø 556 (mm)h 30.7 x ø 21.9 [in]

LANTERNConstructed from mild steel with a bronze patina, the Lantern stands a bold 792mm high. Each side is decorated with an abstract cut-out pattern so that when the Lantern is lit, the pattern is enhanced by the flame, creating a visually dramatic fireplace.h 792 x w 435 x d 451 (mm)h 31.2 x w 17.1 x d 17.8 [in]

CYLA cylindrical shaped ‘tea light’-inspired fireplace. Cyl is constructed from weather-resistant materials, including a round stainless steel base that encases a five litre stainless steel Around Burner. The cylindrical glass surround is made of crystal glass which embraces the flame and is elevated above the base by three stainless steel spigots. The Cyl can be turned on and off as desired using the accompanying lid. Standing 533mm high, the Cyl is a stylish addition to an alfresco party or event – at any time of the year.h 533 x ø 440 (mm)h 21 x ø 16.5 [in]


out_style sun_contract urban_styleout_floor sea_style sunaquae

to visit:to exhibit:

Fiere e comunicazioni Srlvia San Vittore, 14 - 20123 Milan (Italy)tel. +39.02.86451078 - fax +39.02.86453506 [email protected] - www.fierecom.it

Rimini Fiera SpAVia Emilia, 155 - 47921 Rimini (Italy) tel. +39.0541.744111 - fax +39.0541.744200 [email protected] - www.riminifiera.it

Rimini Fair (Italy), October 20-22, 2011®

29th International Exhibition of Outdoor Products.

Design, Furnishing, Accessories

26th International Exhibition of Outdoor Toys and Games

www.sungiosun.it

at the same time:

6th Biennial International Exhibition

12 PAVILLONS with 700 EXHIBITORS of:n furniture n contract n garden n cooking n leisure n street furniture n outdoor pavings n bathing establishment suppliesn swimming-poolsn mobile homes and camping12 SPECIAL EVENTS25.000 TRADE OPERATORS

OUTDOORPA SSION

SHOW II

&

tradeoperators

only

SUN_210x245.indd 1 01/07/11 11.17

USSPA The best investment for your health… We are made of water, we develop in water.

Conform to the philosophy of our company, for your safety and comfort, we provide you with the very best in hot tubs


New products

INDEX Outdoor Living is designed to attract Landscape Architects, Designers, Developers and

Procurement Officers looking to source products and services for their next outdoor design project.

INDEX Outdoor Living will be located in Hall 1.

Project Manager of INDEX Outdoor Living is Samantha Kane-Macdonald.

Modern business parks, luxurious hotel resorts, stunning residential projects and expansive urban

infrastructure are integral parts of this region’s features. Especially in a climate where people spend a lot of time outdoors all year, the design of outside

spaces is as important as the design for indoors.

Harbour Outdoor from the USA, Simexa from Thailand, Tropic from Greece and locally based

Creative Living are just some of the outdoor furniture suppliers you’ll meet at the show. In-Step Trading and Timberwolf will also showcase their outdoor

decking product ranges.

Index outdoor living

Part of the INDEX Outdoor Living show is the Sustainable Gulf Garden, designed by Adrian Matthews of ‘The VERO Studio’,

one of the leading landscape architects in the region. Adrian creates breathtaking and sustainable designs for developers, government bodies and private home owners alike and has spearheaded projects such as The Address Hotel Downtown Dubai, Burj Business Park, Saadiyat Island Cultural District, ADNEC, Dubai World Central and Jumeirah Village South to name a few, along with numerous private and public sector projects in UK, Nigeria and the UAE.

The Sustainable Gulf Garden showcased at INDEX will be an outdoor space which is responsive to the climate, but also reflects the fact that most spaces are used in the evening rather than the day and the shifting way the outdoor space is used through the seasons. There will be a night scene with ambient lighting, a firepit feature, sunken seating, lots of lush cushions, large urns, pots, water feature, birds etc. The important factor is that everything is locally available and of local extraction and design reference with a contemporary interpretation.

indeX outdoor Living is just one of tHe many eXciting additions to tHe indeX 2011 eXHibition. indeX Has traditionaLLy been a furniture and interior design event but due to industry demand Has created a wHoLe new section dedicated to eXterior design and Landscaping.


AZUR SYSTEM Trading LLCph +971(0) 50 548 21 59e [email protected]

Transform your ouTdoor space

designs create an alluring ambience in the outdoors

burning bioethanol

for over 8 hours

no ash

Fully portable, eco-friendly open


New products

Hunza... Pure Outdoor Lighting Solutions T

he Pillar Lite illuminates both upwards and downwards, giving columns, gateway pillars and entrances a dramatic effect. The Retro™ is a 110/240-12 ac mains

option suited to an installation where mounting a transformer is a problem, e.g. a brick wall where there is only the cable protruding out of the wall and it is not an option to recess the transformer or when replacing an existing light fitting.The base size increases in size to accommodate the encapsulated IP66 dimmable transformer.

The Step Lite is designed with a 88mm (3½”) flange for flush mounting into masonry, stone or wood. This luminaire is ideal for illumination of steps and ground level horizontal lighting, for example, across driveways or exterior paved areas. When a canister is used there are no mounting holes in the flange.

The Spike Spot Adjustable has been designed for easy installation into the earth and is ideal for illuminating a bush, tree or any landscape feature. The fully adjustable head allows 360 degree rotation and 0 - 90 degree elevation. This luminaire uses a MR16 GU 5.3 lamp.


Best Swimming pools in the Middle East

New Resorts

By Natasha Tourish

Sharq Village, Qatar International airport lies Sharq Village, a breathtaking waterfront property nestled on 350 meters of private coastline. The main focal point of the hotel is the two strikingly constructed pools, including the infinity pool encompassing a total of 15,000 sq. ft.


By Natasha Tourish

Just in time for the cooler months ahead, Landscape has selected some of the best hotel swimming pools in the Middle East. So whether you are looking for inspirational

design ideas for your own pool or simply to indulge in what’s already there on our doorsteps- this is the feature for you.

Emirates Palace, Abu dhabi,Starting off in the UAE in one of the most expensively designed hotels in the world, the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, located on 1.3 km of private white sandy beach and surrounded by 85 hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens, which includes around 8000 trees. As well as 12 external fountains and 8 indoor water features.

The West Wing Cascades Adventure Pool is the heart of recreational facilities for the whole family to enjoy. A rock lined “lazy river” ride, cascading waterfalls, two flumes and a deck level pool awaits you. Alternatively, for peace and tranquility head for the Las Brisas Pool, located at the East Beach Club. Las Brisas complex offers one large gazebo Jacuzzi, 3 smaller in-pool bubble pools, a Hammock pool, and a swim-on pool bar.

The Chedi, Muscat Oman Situated on the stunning Boushar Beachfront in Oman, where crystal Gulf waters mirror images of glorious mountain ranges, The Chedi Muscat Hotel Oman is an oasis of mysticism and luxuryDesigned in the style of traditional Omani architecture, The Chedi Muscat Hotel Oman features a 370-meter private beach and two swimming pools-The Chedi Pool is dedicated for the exclusive use of adults only, located right by the private beach. The Serai Pool is located in the Serai Wing for families with children.


stripe background.indd 17/5/11 3:47:06 PM

New Resorts

Regency Kuwait HotelIn Kuwait we stop at the Regency Kuwait Hotel, which enjoys direct access to two secluded beaches, one designed especially for ladies and another one for the families only. In addition they have five fresh-water swimming pools featuring a lap pool, an infinity pool, two children’s pools and a pool reserved for ladies only.The Ladies Lounge and Pool offers a warm and renowned atmosphere, suitable for the most exigent guest by offering direct access to a perfectly secluded beach.

Kempinski dead Sea Jordan



Solid Wood FloorsEngineered Wood FloorsLaminate FloorsGym/Sports FloorsRaised Access FloorsPVC/Vinyl FloorsRepair of Wood FloorsComposite Wood DeckingTimber DeckingMetal Works

Composite Decking

Railings

Kempinski Hotel IshtarMeanwhile, the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea offers spectacular Celestial Pools. Plunge into the popular Lazy River during the day; get that perfect tan by the modernly designed Sunken Pool. Take a gentle swim at sunset in the Ashur Pool, then top it all off with a brisk lap under the starry sky in the Akkad Infinity Pool. Take your pick from several heated and non-heated pools.

Sharm’s Savoy hotel Staying in Egypt, Sharm’s Savoy hotel is spread over 200,000 m² of lush tropical foliage, waterfalls and a series of inter-linking swimming pools.The Savoy lies at the heart of the spectacular White Knight Beach on the Red Sea in the South Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The area is renowned for its natural beauty with a rich variety of flora and fauna, desert and majestic mountains.


New Resorts

Monte-Carlo Beach Club set to open this month will be the first beach club on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. The

impressive facility is designed to celebrate fine living, culture, wellbeing and health, reflecting the values of Monte-Carlo SBM sister hotels and clubs in Monaco. Nestled between two luxury beach resorts on the North Eastern side of Saadiyat Beach and adjacent to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, the 39,500 square meter venue will offer guests direct access to the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf. The venue boasts an all-day dining restaurant, three lounges, ‘The Workout Room’ branded gym and studio, kids’ club, spa treatment rooms, Jacuzzi, plunge pool and steam rooms.

Project Brief: Monte Carlo Beach Club on Saadiyat Island is the latest of the Landscape Engineers and Architects (LEA) lavish luxury resorts. LEA adapted and acclimatized the design that was done by Bennit Design Group in the USA and made it suitable to UAE environment and codes of practice with relevant local authority requirements.

LW Design Groups’ design for this ultimate beach club concept adopts a contemporary interplay of form and tactile experience. The design responds to human scale creating a harmony of architecture, interior design and landscape to provide a variety of pleasing indoor and outdoor experiences. Architectural devices such

as scale, vistas, screening, and materials are combined to create an impressive and approachable building of civic proportion that welcomes guests to an intimate and relaxed environment.

Spectacular outdoor swimming pools are undoubtedly one of the selling points of the beach club. Eight pool cabanas are set among the landscaped grounds of the beach club and the white sands of Saadiyat Beach, which includes a 600sqm grassy space suitable for hosting outdoor events. Six private beachfront ‘bungalows’, will also be available quarter one of 2012.

The main swimming pool sized at 650 sqm with a maximum depth of 1.2 metres, is located along the central axis of the beach

Monte Carlo beach club set to bring chic to UAE


club, and offers spectacular views across its infinity edge. Decorative urns draw the guest’s focus to breathtaking views of the vegetated sand dunes, and onwards towards the aquamarine waters of the Arabian Gulf. Flanking the sides of the pool, the cabanas further frame the views and permit guests to bask in the sun while gazing over the cool blue water.

The circular kids pool is sized at 275 sqm and is fully equipped for handling large gatherings of children. Located to the western side of the site, the wading pool has chopped rubber surfacing to cushion any unexpected tumbles. The pool features canopies, which protect children from sun exposure. Kids may continue their fun within a wet playground, which is located next to the kids’ pool.

Speaking about the construction phase of the project, LEA manager Hassan Halaway, told Landscape that all plants used in the project were locally adaptable varieties, that have proven to be successful in the UAE in the past and came from local nurseries. He said, “The plant selection process was a very extensive process and screening for the plants started from day one of the contract award as the specifications were very high and the design concept had a dense plantation requirement as the job doesn’t have the traditional boundary concrete/steel fence but relies on the dense plantation as screening fence. The shade effect was established using fully established trees and full diameter Palm trees to provide the shading effect.”

He added, “The planting schemes on the job as very neat and symmetrical lines that compliment the design concept of the building, with straight geometrical patterns, special emphasis was done to establish a uniform planting alignment that creates a comfortable and uniform view of the overall project.

“Our scope was the execution of the landscape package, which included all the hardscape, soft landscape and the aquascapes. The hardscapes consisted of neat aligned paving works and composite structures mostly made of rustic finished precast elements and granite. The paving patterns were a challenge to coordinate throughout a large site due to extensive design details, however the end result was very appealing. The project also required several composite elements, fire bowls, planters and water urns all of which were executed successfully by LEA,” Hassan explained.

“The Aquascape package consisted of the complete civil and mep works for all the pools and water features which were a real challenge on this job, as the project consists of 1 main pool 800m3 overflow pool with infinity edge and built in cabanas, a kids overflow pool with a very unique design with river rock and epdm finish and wooden deck, a kids jet area with animated nozzles and Aquadomes, 6 water features, 2 Jaccuziz, Plunge pools and 2 wall water features.

“Besides the unique architecture of these water bodies, the lavish finishing and the use of very thick granite for the banding and copings gave the job a lavish look- a practice that is not very common in this part of the world. The uniqueness of the job was also evident in the MEP package that included for the first time in the GCC the use of CHLORKING saline generators from the US for water treatment as compared to the traditional Chlorine systems, the project also used Water Towers from Canada and animated water nozzles,” he added.

EnvironmentConstruction of the beach club has also been carefully managed to ensure no negative impact is made to Saadiyat Beach and the dune protection zone. The offshore coral reefs and sea grass beds of Saadiyat Beach form the natural playground for many species of dolphins and fish. Hawksbill turtles use the coastal sand dunes that are located in the front of the beach club to nest. In order to prevent any adverse impact to this popular nesting ground, TDIC has been very careful to manage construction work at night. Elevated pedestrian access over the coastal dune system has also been created to protect this delicate natural environment. In addition, the beach club has been designed in accordance with TDIC’s sustainable design regulations. These guidelines cover sustainable practices within various areas, including:

• Water use and management • Energy use and conservation •Ecological enhancement and protection •Landscape design •Pollution prevention • Use of materials •Waste management

The building itself utilizes passive and active solar design. All plumbing fixtures have been fitted with flow regulators, aerators and cut-off valves to ensure water is saved. Waste at the facility will be segregated into recyclable materials, organic food waste and general waste. All landscaping waste will also be managed separately onsite. The lighting of the venue is also being managed to reduce impact to the nesting hawksbill turtles.


Water features


If you are considering adding a custom swimming pool to your landscaping design, you might want to think about the addition of a pool.

A pool in the garden creates a center of focus for the best features of your setting, and should be placed in the most frequented place in the garden.

We have seen water features and pools turn an everyday garden into a memorable work of art because they add movement, sound, shape and color to the landscape design.

You can use your own imagination and get a wide range of water features. A simple rock waterfall can be made by using rocks from your garden itself.

Pool & water fountains are fountains connected to a larger body of water.

Lush seasonal plantings surrounding the pool could add a tropical feel transforming concrete gardens into a much cooler environment. Sunbathing dining and lounging around a pool is both entertaining and makes the atmosphere an exquisite delight.

Pool & water fountains

water is an important eLement of any garden. fountains, cascades, smaLL waterfaLLs and ponds are some of tHe water features used as a focaL point in Landscape design.

by francis Landscapes


Charming, partially shaded Andalusian water channels can also be created with an octagonal fountain at the end. We can plant rows of majestic palms on either side for framing the scenery.

Vertical or horizontal wall fountains made of stone, either slate or marble, can be placed in your garden. Stone has the property for cooling along with water fountains. The continuous flow of water and the trickling sound created by water fountains soothes the mind and relieves stress.

Water features


You can sit in front of the water fountain enjoying the natural atmosphere at the end of a tiresome day or after a stressful work. Whether water fountains are used interiorly or exteriorly, they add glamour to your home and makes it more splendid.

A pergola transforms any ordinary place into a cozy corner adding a romantic atmosphere to the isolated areas of your pool and terraces. It could set the stage for candlelight dinners or become an ideal area for being shaded from the heat and for spending time in peace

and quiet surrounded by flowering shrubs and the wonderful sounds of nature.

Water features are not only good for the environment, but provides your gardens with style and beauty transforming it into a tranquil retreat, a peaceful setting and adds to it a superb splendor.

Through the landscaping, an oasis is created, with cascades, pools, and diverse vegetation coming together in symphonic harmony, giving rise to an impressive scenery.


قد حديقتك، تصميم إلى سباحة حوض إضافة أردت حال وفي

في هذا األمر. حتتاج إلى التفكير

ميزات ألفضل نقطة محورية يخلق احلديقة في حوضسباحة فوجود

إقباالً. األكثر املساحة في يقع أن وينبغي احلديقة تلك

اعتيادية حديقة حتول سباحة وأحواض مائية جند معالم وغالبًا ما

والشكل احلركة والصوت تضفي بحيث تنسى ال فنية أعمال إلى

واأللوان إلى التصميم.

مجموعة واسعة من على االستعانة مبخيلتك للحصول ميكنك كما

استخدام عبر بسيط صخري حيث ميكنك إنشاء شالل املائية؛ املعالم

والنوافير "احلوض ترتيب شكل عن طريق أو حديقتك من صخور

كبير. مائي بحوض تتصل نوافير وهي املائية"

بحوض احمليطة املوسمية الغنية للنباتات ميكن أخرى جهة من

حدائق االسمنت حتول بحيث استوائية ملسة تضفي أن السباحة

حول واجللوس الطعام تناول أن شك وال خالبة. جميلة بيئة إلى

والباعثة املسلية األمور من بالشمس هي لالستمتاع السباحة حوض

للبهجة.

مع ومظللة جزئيًا ساحرة أندلسية مياه قنوات أيضًا إنشاء ميكن

شجر من صفوفًا نزرع أن وميكن آخرها. في مثمنة ماء نافورة

للمشهد. من اإلطار خللق نوع اجلانبني من الشامخ على كل النخيل

واملصنوعة عاموديًا أو أفقيًا احلائطية التوافير وضع ميكن كما

بخاصية احلجر ويتميز الرخام في حديقتك. أو األردواز احلجر من

للماء املستمر التدفق إن املائية كما النوافير في خصوصًا التبريد

التوتر. ويخففان والراحة العدوء يبعثان خريرها وصوت

الطبيعية باألجواء واالستمتاع املياه نافورة أمام اجللوس ميكنك

داخلية النافورة كانت فإن شاق؛ عمل بعد أو متعب يوم نهاية في

أكثر وجتعله منزلك والفخامة إلى األناقة خارجية، فإنها تضفي أم

روعة.

وتخلق حميمي ركن األماكن العادية إلى حتول فهي العريشة أما

والباحات. حوض السباحة املعزولة حول املواقع في رومنسية أجواءًا

مساحة أو الشموع ضوء على للعشاوات اإلطار املثالي تشكل وقد

املزهرة بالشجيرات محاطًا وهدوء، بسالم الوقت فيها مظللة متضي

الرائعة. الطبيعة وصوت

احلدائق إنها متنح للبيئة فقط، بل املائية ليست مفيدة املقومات إن

ميلؤها هادئة واحات إلى حتولها حيث مميزين، وجماًال أسلوبًا

الروعة. عليها وتضفي السكون

الشالالت جنمع حيث الواحات نخلق احلدائق، تصميم خالل من

في البعض بعضها مع النباتات ومختلف السباحة وأحواض

مثيرة لإلعجاب. مشاهد تولد سمفونية متناغمة

. .

والشالالت والنوافير حديقة أي في عامًال رئيسيًا املياه تعتبربها لتكون التي يستعان بعض املالمح هي سوى ما املائية والبرك

احلدائق. تصميم محور

Water features

Tel: +971 2 6274818 Fax +971 2 6274817 • P.O.Box: 73878 Abu Dhabi, UAE • Website: www.aldhafragroup.com

ADVANCED HYDROTECH A.Tech

ISO 9001 : 2008

The Intelligent Useof Water

The Water & Soilmanagement solutions…

Quick-easy-safecompression and

Electrofusion fitting

High-Grade valves from Austria


With the concept of many modern malls leaning toward “entertainment”, water features are highly versatile in what

they can deliver to a destination. They can provide fascinating focal points or meeting places. They can put on theatrical shows that build up to a climax, welcome guests to a venue, or simply provide places to relax while eating lunch or reading a book. Their dazzling effects make up a large part of a destinations feel or offering. Whether a fountain is placed in Dubai, Chicago or Singapore the effect is usually the same – it acts as a people magnet. For example, it is widely accepted that water features encourage the public to stay at shopping malls longer than the industry average of approximately one hour.

Increasingly landscape architects and developers are requiring distinctive water ‘experiences’ that cater for a host of different environments whether a town square, theme park, shopping mall or hotel. And on a smaller scale, individual poolside water features are providing new and exciting experiences around residential and hotel swimming pools.

Here Rob Mikula, Associate Director of Crystal, gives two examples of Crystal’s exciting commercial projects and discusses Crystal’s popular poolside Fire Water products. Some of Crystal’s notable projects in the Middle East include water features at The Yas Island Welcome Pavilion in Abu Dhabi – discussed below – the Burjuman Centre in Dubai, the Al Kout Fahaheel Waterfront Development in Kuwait, and the Yas Marina Hotel in Abu Dhabi.

There is something alluring about water, perhaps it’s because water is one of the four elements vital to human life. In the Middle East water also provides a cooling effect that makes hot weather much more bearable. In recent years water feature technology has developed considerably and has significantly raised the barriers of what’s possible. Truly awe-inspiring shows of water and light can now be created. From incredible choreographed water and light shows to fountains that can dance to music - technology has allowed fountains to become true theatrical displays with highly intense effects.

Crystal is a world leader in water feature technology. Apart from the manufacture of traditional water feature lights and products, it has its own range of highly sophisticated LED Lights and Choreoswitches, which are cutting edge sequencing devices. Crystal is dedicated to developing products, finding different and new configurations, layouts, height variations and water volumes that will help its own, or external design teams, produce greater ranges of visual and animated water effects.

One of the biggest developments in recent years has been in the area of lighting, and specifically in high performance LED (Light Emitting Diodes) technology. Previously, lighting a water feature required using coloured lenses or Fiber optic technology that was restricted to 8 colours of the standard colour wheel. Now with LED’s RGB (Red Green Blue) digital colour mixing technology and the latest LED technology, it is possible to create approximately 16 million colours and

Water features

Bring your garden to life with a water feature By Crystal landscaping

3� i www.landscape-me.com i september 2011

stripe b

ack

gro

und.in

dd 1

7/5

/11 3

:47:0

6 P

M

to switch from one colour to another instantly. Crystal was an early pioneer in submersible LED technology. Over the last year it has developed a series of new LED products specially designed to meet different applications and design needs.

It is technology of this kind that allows landscape architects to create exciting water features that significantly add to the merit of projects. For example, a recent installation of a water feature at the White Square Office Centre in Moscow, Russia demonstrates what a fountain can add to a high end development.

The White Square Office Centre is a 100,000 sq m (Approximately 1 million sq ft) Class “A” office complex comprising three buildings, situated in a prime location near the Belorusskaya metro station. The brief was to design and install an exterior water feature that would complement the surrounding architecture of the three office towers, and also serve as a visual and physical focal point to the terminus of three major pedestrian corridors.

Finished entirely in ‘Black Absolute’ granite, Crystal’s design takes the form of an elegant 6m (20 ft) diameter raised water table with a decorative perimeter granite curb. A geometric pattern of sixteen individual “lotus leaf” outline forms (based on decorative ironwork designs found in the nearby subway station) are set within the water table to create an intriguing and elegant display. During the day, when retail tenants on the ground floor are open for business, the feature works as a sophisticated and simple reflecting pool. The black background enhances water reflectivity and provides an illusion of depth. In the evening the water feature becomes an entertaining feature with dynamic, colourful shows of negative and positive water shapes.

The fountain utilises Crystal’s new LED RGB Ring Lights, which are a leading submersible LED Lighting technology. Unlike the previous generation of submersible LED Lights, the new ‘Ring’ Lights surround each water jet, combining lights and water into one component and focusing water illumination like never before. The Ring

Lights are choreographed with water jets to produce enhanced night displays.

White Square’s design also comprises a centrally positioned “Dynamite Blast Jet” with an integrated LED RGB fixture. When activated it forms a 270mm (10.6 in.) diameter column of vertical water to a height of 3.7m (12ft). The jet can function in combination with any of the other Choreoswitches and is particularly impressive at night when combined with the LED RGB submersible lights. A wind control sensor lowers or turns off the jet in high wind conditions.

Traditionally fountains in Moscow are turned off during winter months. But at White Square, the LED Lights entertain all year round. From October to April the water system is “winterised” and shut down, but the LED Lights are fully operational, making it possible to create colourful visual displays throughout the year.

The idea at White Square was to provide office workers and shoppers with an ever changing focal point that complements the developments surrounding architecture. The fountain can transform through such a wide variety of moods and modes, that it has become famous across Moscow and attracts people that perhaps would have never visited White Square. At night the fountain’s an entertainment spectacle while on the weekend it’s an entertaining destination for families to visit.

A recent project at the Yas Island “Ferrarri World Welcome Pavilion” in Abu Dhabi demonstrates that it simply doesn’t make sense to refer to some projects as “fountains”. The choreographed dancing water feature is located in pools on either side of the entrance adjacent to the Ferrari Theme Park. The architecture of the water feature compliments “Ferrari” World as 2,100 Crystal LED Lights, 750 nozzles and 91 custom Crystal ChoreoSwitches installed in geometric patterns symbolizing a racetrack, create a unique choreographed sequence of water and light. It is one of the largest water features in the world and covers 89,000 sq ft./8268 sq m and comprises thousands of LED lights and nozzles. The water



BLENDS NATURALLY WITH ANY

ENVIRONMENT AND LANDSCAPE

COMPOSITION SIMPLE AND ELEGANT

Modern flower pots with lights

feature covers such a wide area that it forms a significant part of the theme park’s overall landmass and aims to excite visitors in the same way the theme park’s rides do.

The Yas Island Welcome Pavilion is a multi-million dollar development by Aldar Properties that serves as the gateway to Ferrari World, the biggest covered entertainment city on the planet. The world class Aquatic Design firm, Aquatic Design and Engineering, created the customised water feature.

Visible from the Welcome Pavilion’s car park, the water feature serves as the gateway to Ferrari World and was created to set the stage for the thrills visitors will experience at the theme park, including the world’s fastest roller coaster, luxury hotels, retailers and sports facilities. It is also the last thing they see when leaving Ferrari World, usually at night when the water feature is concluding one of its memorable performances.

The water feature has a calm, passive daytime mode, utilizing only 10% of its power. But throughout the evening, the fountain builds up to a climax every 30 minutes, to dazzle visitors when every light and nozzle is running. “Aerator Burst Jets” shoot water up to 100 ft/30.4m in the air, and generate a tight stream that rises

rapidly but disperses at its peak to fall in a gentle, controlled manner.

Interestingly, the fountain can be reprogrammed at any time to produce customised sequences of water and light. For example, the LED Lights can display the colours of a national flag on a particular evening, or the water and lights can perform tailored one-off water shows for a special guest. Water and light effects can also be choreographed to “dance” to music. Over the years the fountain will be reprogrammed many times to ensure that visitors never see the same display. The water feature puts on truly unforgettable “shows” for guests that are sure to help attract the public and keep the theme park ahead of its rivals.

It is however, possible to have inspiring water features on a much smaller scale, at residential or hotel swimming pools. Fire-Water effect products have been particularly popular in the Middle East. These poolside products combine fire and water to create a dramatic, peaceful or romantic setting.

Beautifully crafted from quality materials like hand hammered copper and attractively colored concrete, the decorative fire-water features provide unique focal points. They come in various shapes and sizes and are very popular with landscape architects

designing luxury resorts, and homeowners that want something unique.

Bowls can be used as planters, planters with water spillway, fire and water spillway, or fire only displays. Fire Water Bowls provide an excellent focal point for pool and lounge areas. Flames leap inside the bowl while water pours into the pool through the spillway.

Combining fire and water has proved to be extremely popular and the products have really started to transform people’s views about using outdoor water features. They really add something to a pool area, even when the swimming pool is not being used. Clients have said that fire-water products present a great addition to pool areas, particularly in the evenings, when people are relaxing with drinks or dinner.

As technology continues to evolve, designers of water features will carry on pushing the boundaries to create ever more engaging and dazzling displays. A well designed water feature can add substantially to the attractiveness of any development whether it’s an office, hotel, shopping mall or theme park, enhancing its reputation as a destination, attracting visitors and distinguishing it from its competitors. And pool areas can also be transformed with innovative water features.

Water features


BLENDS NATURALLY WITH ANY

ENVIRONMENT AND LANDSCAPE

COMPOSITION SIMPLE AND ELEGANT

Modern flower pots with lights


n ow in its 22nd year, the Hampton Court Flower show is a British summer cultural institution. It has gained an international

reputation for innovative show and conceptual gardens. 160,000 visitors flock to the 34-acre site adjacent to the historic royal palace built by Henry VIII. The show is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society, who also host the sell-out Chelsea Flower Show. As at Chelsea, there is a strong horticultural element, with a floral marquee the size of a soccer pitch and an ever growing emphasis on productive gardens. Hampton is also a showcase for landscapers who often work closely with designers during the design phase. There is an interesting use of materials and generally a very high level of finish.

Best Show Garden award went to first-timers Caroline Comber with Petra Horackova. In there ‘I am Because of Who

We Are’ garden, interlocking arcs of Cor-ten steel symbolise the African philosophy of Ubuntu, or social co-operation. Originally entered as a student project in the Concept Garden category, the design was strong enough for the organisers to ask for it to be developed as one of the 12 prestigious show gardens.

Looking at Venn diagrams – overlapping circles of sets in logic - crystallised concept, ‘was an ‘epiphany moment’ says Caroline. The steel curves contain groupings of mixed grass and herbaceous planting that mingle at the intersections. Cor-ten strips in the grass and a grid of 24 birch (Betula albosinensis ‘Fascination’) are evidence of Caroline’s original training as a landscape architect.

Modernist gardens were also in evidence. Gold medal winner in the show gardens, the Vestra Wealth Gray’s Garden, was

a cool and elegant take on the work of Eileen Gray, the 1920s textile and furniture designer. The best small garden award was given to ‘Heathers in Harmony’ by William Quarmby, which reclaimed out of vogue heathers in a vertical planting and used level changes to great effect.

The first ever use of fungus at the show won designer and sculptor Daniel Lobb best conceptual garden. In ‘Landscape Obscured’, a 5m2 square of turf is slightly tilted to hint at an underground space. ‘I wondered what I could use to represent a larger landscape’, says Daniel. ‘I chose fungi for their sculptural qualities’. Rusting steel plinths house periscopes that allow the viewer to be transported to another world. Specialist grower Fundamentally Fungus supplied the mainly far eastern species, and also some rare or endangered UK types. The fungi are due to be harvested, cooked and eaten on the last day of the show.

Hampton court fLower sHow sHowcases

tHe best of tHemed gardens

By Fiona Law

Landscape ObscuredDesigned by Dan LobbBuilt by Graduate Landscapes & G&D Steel and Fabrication

RHS Edible GardenDesigned by Jon Wheatley and Anita Foy Built by Stone Barn Landscapes and Landform New Zealand

Vestra Wealth’s Gray’s GardenSponsored by Vestra Wealth Designed by Paul Martin DesignsBuilt by Little Offley Landscapes, MJM Group


The World Vision Garden Sponsored by World Vision & Plantify.co.ukDesigned by FlemonsWarlandDesignBuilt by Landform Consultants

I am, because of who we areSponsored byCDN Consular Services LimitedDesigned byCaroline Comber with Petra HorackovaBuilt byCrew Construction

The CoppaFeel! GardenDesigned by Hugo BuggBuilt by Himalayan Landscaping with Streetscape

Vestra Wealth’s Gray’s GardenSponsored by Vestra Wealth Designed by Paul Martin DesignsBuilt by Little Offley Landscapes, MJM Group

RHS Edible GardenDesigned by Jon Wheatley and Anita FoyBuilt by Stone Barn Landscapes and Landform New Zealand

The Burgon & Ball 5-A-day GardenSponsored by Burgon & BallDesigned by Heather Culpan, Nicola ReedBuilt by Burgon & Ball


Another young designer, Anoushka Feiler, tried to provoke expansive thought with her conceptual garden, ‘Excuse me while I kiss the sky’. A 45o mirrored surface encircles a mirrored globe over which hang plants upside down. A ground planting of Agapanthus ‘Blue Heaven’ develops the theme of wide horizons and ‘blue sky thinking’. Bokkse provided the Sky Planters, which retain the planting medium and have an integral reservoir.

A stand out conceptual garden was an evocation of young soldiers leaving the relative safety of their compound to go on foot patrol in Helmand, Afghanistan. ‘Enduring Freedom’ by Nete Hojlund and Corinne Sharpe consists of a rough terrain representing both a minefield and battered Afghan society. Simple posts of cast stone chart the numbers of coalition force mortalities over the ten years of the conflict. Poppies in a border of grasses are a symbol of war remembrance in the UK and in this context also evoke opium farming. The design team, both newly qualified and mature students (Nete, an interior designer and Corinne, a former production manager at the Royal Opera House) have already gained a number of commissions, including larger landscaping in the UK and abroad. On a social equality theme, the World Vision Garden by FlemonsWarlandDesign, had two domes of grass (one inverted) in a reflective pool, representing the ‘haves’ and have nots. This deservedly won a gold medal.

Reflecting the UK resurgence in growing fruit and veg, the RHS chose to present a 2000m2 Edible Garden. This showcased an orchard of quince, medlar and apples, a nuttery, and trained fruit trees in a formal area. A profusion of herbs and flowers, both culinary and medicinal, were a riot of colour, and beekeepers gave demonstrations. Rows of vines represented the increasing number of artisan vineyards in the UK, and a grove of olive trees looked to a future when, due to global warming, it may be possible to harvest olives commercially in the UK. In the small gardens category, a gold medal was awarded to the’ 5-A-Day Garden’, which can crop enough for the recommended portions of fruit and veg.

Other key themes across the show gardens include digital technology (‘My Life in the Cloud’ by former Google executive Nigel Jones,’ The Eye of the Internet Maze’ by Judy Cornford and ‘The Virtual Reality Garden’ by Bruce Waldock), the English countryside (‘Why We Care about Chalk Streams’ by Fiona Stephenson and ‘The Stockman’s Retreat’ by Chris Beardshaw) and health (The CoppaFeel! Garden by Hugo Bugg).

With over 50 designed gardens and over 600 exhibitors the Hampton Court Flower show is a packed day of inspiration for designers, landscapers and ordinary gardeners alike.

Excuse me while I kiss the skyDesigned by Anoushka Feiler Built by Neale Richards Ltd Garden Design

Enduring Freedom?Sponsored by Zuger Capital AGDesigned by Nete Hojlund and Corinne SharpBuilt by Broadway Construction & Paul Dracott

Excuse me while I kiss the skyDesigned by Anoushka Feiler Built by Neale Richards Ltd Garden Design


stripe b

ack

gro

und.in

dd 1

7/5

/11 3

:47:0

6 P

M

Women in landscape


strip

e b

ack

gro

und.in

dd 1

7/5

/11 3

:47:0

6 P

M

What inspired you to become a landscape architect and was your educational background directly related to this?My educational background combines the fields of landscape architecture and architecture. As an undergraduate student in Cairo, Egypt, I studied architecture at Ain Shams University. During this time, I became interested in the study of both the built environment and built form. In a city on the scale and population of Cairo, I could not help but notice the great need for open green public spaces and the importance of such spaces for improving the quality of life in urban areas. My graduate doctoral work was a further step in the direction of the field of landscape architecture as I became interested in the history of garden design and in particular the Islamic Garden Tradition. After finishing the Ph. D., my interest in landscape architecture continued to evolve in the direction of historical and cultural landscapes, design in arid and semi-arid environments, and the application of Islamic garden design principles in contemporary contexts. Currently, I am Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture at Clemson University, South Carolina, USA, and a principal at HewittNassar Studio. My position allows me to both teach and practice in the US and the Middle East. In your opinion, what are the essential attributes that any landscape architect should possess?Landscape architecture is a design discipline and therefore landscape architects should have a good understanding, appreciation and knowledge of both the technical and artistic components of the profession. Landscape architecture is neither a pure art nor a pure science. It involves theoretical concepts as well as the practice of utilizing space and designing landscape. It is a profession that has both humanistic and scientific

dimensions. And since it is concerned with creating outdoor environments for human use, landscape architects need a great deal of interdisciplinary knowledge and an awareness of the impact of social, cultural and environmental factors on the profession.Landscape architects must also maintain current knowledge in terms of theory and professional practice, trends in design and projects, and the dynamics between local and global issues that affect change in landscape architecture.

The Middle East has seen major developments in the landscaping industry over the past few years with major projects in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Now the attention must be turned to sustaining these ‘Green’ landscapes for years to come. How can this be done bearing in mind our environmental responsibility to reduce our carbon footprint and the limited skills of the maintenance workers who are left to preserve the landscapes once the architects have handed over the job?As we are witnessing today, the Middle East continues to play a significant role in the world on multiple levels including scale of development, speed of urbanization, and the magnitude of large landscape architectural projects. With very rapid environmental and economic change in the region, and with the growth of new cities, such as on the Arabian Peninsula, as well as the continued expansion of mega cities like Cairo, it is very important to explore the nature of landscape change in the region, explain the factors contributing to significant change, and understand the implications for the future. At the heart of the profession is an inherited stewardship and responsibility towards the natural environment. We therefore strive to find a delicate balance between how much to build and how much to conserve.When it comes to sustaining landscapes and

dr. Hala Nassar


stripe background.indd 1 7/5/11 3:47:06 PM

public places which have been developed over the past few decades, the lack of a sufficient number of professionally trained and educated individuals continues to be a major issue. There are very good departments of architecture and regional and urban planning in the academies of the Middle East. However, there are very few departments of landscape architecture. One way to provide support for landscape architecture in this region is to introduce the profession as an academic discipline in institutions of higher education as well as technical colleges.

Water will become the most precious resource in the coming years and it’s likely to become a source of conflict. How can you as a landscape professional plan ahead in your work to ensure that water is treated with the respect it deserves and not wasted?Dr. Ismail Serageldin, director of the Library of Alexandria in Egypt, and holder of several honorary doctoral degrees, has been an important voice throughout the last decade calling for more attention to water issues. In August 1995 he warned that, “if the wars of this century were fought over oil, the wars of the next century will be fought over water -- unless we change our approach to managing this precious and vital resource.” Especially in the Middle East, with its arid and semi-arid environments, Dr. Serageldin’s warning about potential water problems is very critical. Landscape architecture is one of the leading professions in that regard because of its ability to respond to the environment and to work within its parameters. In hot arid environments landscape architects pay close attention to appropriate water conservation practices specified during the design phase and put into place during construction, operation and post-occupancy maintenance. Water-

conscious strategies for landscape designs take into account the amounts of water needed for sustaining landscapes, the quantity and types of plants being used, the use of native/local vegetation, and the heat/drought tolerance of plant materials. Recycling of off site water and use of recycled water (greywater) for irrigation can be a very valuable strategy in water conservation. Using state of the art irrigation technology can also provide long-term efficiency and cost benefits in terms of water use. Other strategies that might apply to limited parts of the Middle East include rainwater harvesting and retention. And above all, we need general, culture-wide behavioral changes involving the use and management of water. Therefore public awareness, education and communication of best practices regarding water usage are important keys for a sustainable future.

Do you believe that the landscape industry in this region will undergo a major change in their design practices and be forced to adapt in the years ahead to overcome this problem of water scarcity and how can you avoid having only arid landscapes? Certainly! As we have grown to be more environmentally and energy conscious, we will have to also become more water conscious. Designed landscapes and built environments need to respond to the decreased availability of water in the foreseeable future. Perhaps what is needed is to revisit the landscape architectural palate and develop an appreciation for different types of gardens, plant materials and landscape designs that are not heavily reliant on excessive amounts of water. That does not necessarily mean that we have only arid landscapes, but that we also explore design alternatives to traditional lush-looking landscapes.

Women in landscape


Which project has you been most proud of throughout your career and why?It would be hard to pick one from the many architectural and landscape architectural projects I have been involved in. I have worked on projects involving housing, urban planning and design, hotels and resorts, urban parks, health care facilities, and landscape architecture public art installations projects in various countries including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, China and the United States.

I would like to mention a recent project that has been intriguing and interesting to work on from conceptual development to installation in Sonoma, California entitled “Climate Change Garden.” It is an invited project involving the installation of public art in a landscape setting. The project addresses the implications of climate change on garden design and combines aspects of sustainability, context specific design and global trends in landscape architecture.

The “Climate Change Garden” expresses through design the impending changes we face concerning meaning and nature, resource scarcity, and greater global cultural awareness. Images of nature from around the world gain greater significance, once plentiful resources become especially precious, and plants shift in form and function like the shifting boundaries of our ecotones.If you could create your dream project, what would it entail?I have been very fortunate to have worked on a wide variety of projects in different parts of the world. Each project presented a different configuration of variables including location, scope, climate, ecology, program, constraints, potentials, and so. My dream project would be one that presents another level of challenge and another possibility for creativity.

As a woman in a male dominated profession, what has been your experience working in this field in the Middle East?I believe that I am able to answer this question based on my personal academic research and general observation in practice. In the United States, in early 2000 I conducted

research that examined both the academic performance of women in landscape over a time span of 20 years and also surveyed these graduates about their professional career satisfaction. In terms of academic performance, women generally out performed male students in most of classes and studios. Research results of surveying both male and female graduates showed that women graduates still held landscape jobs in their 30s and 40s, that they were overall satisfied with their career choice, and that they were engaged in all aspects of the profession from design to implementation. Solicited written comments indicated that women found it difficult in the beginning to be in a male-dominated profession but once “trust was earned” they encountered no major issues working in the field.As an educator, my own observation of the classroom or design studio is that classes were generally around 50% male and 50 % female students.My observations based on working in the Middle East, both as an educator and professional, are not significantly different. I have observed an equal numbers of male and female students in most design disciplines and in professional practice women hold different types of positions representing different aspects of the profession. In my opinion, there are more and more women entering the field. It would be very interesting,

and definitely needed, to conduct a similar study examining women’s professional status, performance and satisfaction in landscape architecture in the Middle East as well.

With the exception of water, what are the main challenges your industry will encounter in the coming years and how can these be overcome in your opinion? I believe that globalization is one of the strongest influences affecting large scale landscape change; its impact is extensive, fast paced and deep. In the face of such rapid change our challenge would be the preservation of both the natural environment and cultural heritage. It will therefore be very important to keep in balance future development and the protection of our existing cultural heritage and treasured places.

What advice would you give other women wanting to enter this profession, both here and overseas?Women have always been engaged in landscape architecture. Historical records and scholarly literature attest to their consistent academic and professional contribution to the profession. Landscape architecture is a great career choice that needs the continuous contributions and presence of talented professional women.

PURE SAFETYIlluminate your way with the Hunza Walkway Lite, which allows safe walking at night but blends perfectly into the landscape during the day. At Hunza we take pride in making the finest outdoor lights in the world, engineered in New Zealand from the best materials to provide a lifetime of pure enjoyment.

HUNZA LIGHTING MIDDLE EASTPh: +971 50 615 [email protected]

www.hunza.co.nz


International Designs

The design of this ecologically sensitive resort village features a 5-star Kempinski hotel and branded residences, marina, town center,

beach club, golf club and various luxury residential typologies. The Lavender Bay

master plan is founded on a deep respect for the natural environment and seeks to establish a close relationship with the land of which it is part. Formally the resort flows with the natural topography allowing for an extended exposure to the forest and sea. A

Lavender Bayby oppenheim architecture+kesign LLp


Lavender Bay Resort coexists with the natural landscape through a symbiotic relationship that commemorates the local culture becoming a world class resort destination.

water front boardwalk connects the residential town and hotel areas of the master plan and provides access to an archeological site and the town center. The town plan is designed to have minimal environmental impact and maximum sensorial effect. A small village, routes follow the natural contours of the land and culminate


strip

e ba

ckgr

ound

.indd

1

7/5/

11

3:47

:06

PM

in central gathering areas. The residences are based on simple forms that are economical to construct and harmonize the transition from outside to inside with large volumes that blend into the landscape. Materials and construction methods are equally simple, representing local building techniques, crafts, and cultures. Facing the sea, the hotel complex expands from a central cluster of simple public spaces designed to accentuate the tranquil natural setting. Lavender Bay Resort coexists with the natural landscape through a symbiotic relationship that commemorates the local culture becoming a world class resort destination.


scope: Luxury resort comprised of 300 hectares fronted by a 2km beachLocation: thessaly, greecerenderings: in-house


strip

e ba

ckgr

ound

.indd

1

7/5/

11

3:47

:06

PM


الصديق بتصميمه املنتجع هذا يتميز

كمبينسكي فندق يشمل وهو للبيئة،

العالمات ألبرز فاخرة ومساكن جنوم

ومركز مارينا إلى باإلضافة التجارية

وللغولف للشاطىء ونادي مدينة

باملساكن اخلاصة املرافق وغيرها من

الرئيسي املخطط ويرتكز الفخمة.

للبيئة عميق احترام على باي لالفندر

متينة عالقة يسعى لبناء كما الطبيعية

لذلك عليها. يبنى التي األرض مع

للبيئة الطبيعة املنحنيات املنتجع يتبع

أكبر على تواصل مما يجعله احمليطة

املمشى ويربط والبحر. الغابة مع

السكنية املدينة األمامي الشاطئي

الرئيسي للمخطط الفندق مبنطقة

األثرية املواقع إلى الوصول موفرًا

املدينة تصميم مت وقد املدينة. ومركز

التأثير من األدنى احلد لها ليكون

احلسي. التأثير تعزيز مع البيئي

الصغيرة، القرية أرجاء وضمن

الطبيعية اخلطوط املمرات كافة تتبع

جتمع مساحات في لتلتقي لألرض

ترتكز فهي املساكن، أما مركزية.

البناء ذات البسيطة األشكال على

من االنتقال تسهل والتي االقتصادي

املساحات بفضل الداخل إلى اخلارج

الطبيعية. املناظر في املندمجة الكبيرة

املستخدمة، البناء ووسائل املواد أما

احمليطة البيئة حتترم جميعها فهي

واحلرف التقنيات متثل بحيث

املنازل. لبناء احمللية والثقافات

الفندق مجمع جند للبحر، ومواجهًا

بسيطة عامة أماكن من ميتد الذي

املناخ على الضوء لتسلط صممت

منتجع أن شك وال والطبيعي. الهادىء

احمليطة البيئة مع يندمج باي الفندر

بالثقافة حتتفي تكافلية عالقة عبر

سياحية عاملية. وجهًة احمللية ليصبح

…ÉH Qóæa’شاطىء مع 300 هكتاراً مساحة فاخر على منتجع

اليونان تيساليا، في كلمتراً 2 بطول


THIS IS A CHAIR…it just takes a special eye to see it Scan the QR code

and become part of the INDEX evolution

22 - 25 October 2011 | Halls 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Rashid Hall and Maktoum Hall | Dubai World Trade Centre, UAEOpening Hours: 11:00 – 19:00 daily. No children under 18 years of age permitted to the exhibition.

WHERE INSPIRATION THRIVES

www.indexexhibition.com

The most innovative design starts with a designer’s vision.Visitors to INDEX understand that great design is much more than

simply assembling, arranging or editing, it is something that is felt!

Showcasing products and services that range from traditional to quirky, opulent to minimalist, INDEX provides all the creativity and

inspiration you need for your next design project.

To find out more and to register online, visit: www.indexexhibition.com/attend

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

12017_Index_Landscape_ME_210X297mm_Outdoor_Vstr.ai 7/12/11 10:47:41 AM


stripe background.indd 1 7/5/11 3:47:06 PM

Originally, the Valley of Puebla had nine different waterbodies, of which seven dried

up as a result of the unplanned growth of the city; today, Baltazar and Chapulco lagoons are the only two that still exist as such.

The Chapulco Lagoon covers an area of approximately seven hectares, after the renovation works, but it used to be much larger. Due to the

continuous expansion of both planned and informal settlements and residential areas within the city and beyond the city edges, the lagoon was slowly taken over, especially on its North border, and used almost as a formal dumping area. In addition, the constant floods caused during the region´s rainy seasons made the local authorities look for a plan which would manage this negative situation in a functional manner and which, as a bonus, would recover the site for recreational purposes.

In Mexico, water belongs to the federal government, and in order to define legal and functional objectives, the hydraulic area had to be well delineated. In the beginning, when the project started to take shape, this came out as a problem because a large percentage of the surrounding land was allocated for agricultural properties, or “terrenos ejidales”, meaning that they had been given by the government for farm work and production. For this reason, the government of the city of Puebla conducted a socio-economic

From stagnant waters to a park around water

by jimena martignoni



study, together with the local Department of Environment and Education, and finally bought this land through social agreements with hundreds of peasants.

The social surveys also provided specific information about the general uses of the area, identifying a significant number of public and private schools, at elementary, primary and secondary levels. This preexistence subtly lead to the idea of specializing the park, which would be open to the public at large, as a local educational centre, where water utilization, environment and flora and fauna recognition would be the main topics to be

promoted. These decisions were reaffirmed by GDU – Grupo de Diseño Urbano – when it was called to direct the Master Plan and to propose a layout which converted the site into a new thematically designed park. GDU´s proposal was a combination of public space rehabilitation and flood control management, where urban hydraulic infrastructure interacts with newly generated green spaces, recreational and sporting areas, and programs for the community´s education. The creation of a Center for Environmental Education within the site, run by the park´s managers and the Major of Puebla, was one of the decisions that would support these concepts.


l a N d s C a p i N g • H a R d s C a p i N g • N U R s e R Y • i R R i g a t i O N

to make your outdoor living environment a greener

and more relaxing place CitisCape provides you

with total landscaping solutions for planning and

designing your surroundings; from site development to landscaping and irrigation

works and nurseries as well as providing services such as garden accessories, outdoor

lighting and maintenance with comprehensive landscaping care.

ReinventingLifestyle

Head Quarter – ABU DHABI P.O. Box 48303 Tel : +971 2 633 8228Fax: +971 2 633 8010

DUBAI BranchP.O. Box 72329Tel : +971 4 329 8644Fax: +971 4 329 8633

AL AIN BranchP.O. Box 15242Tel : +971 3 767 9311Fax: +971 3 767 9366

QATAR BranchP.O. Box 24531 DohaTel : +974 4 458 0848Fax: +974 4 458 0833

SAUDI Branch – K.S.A.P.O. Box 6979 Riyadh 12836Tel : +966 1 478 9993Fax: +966 1 473 0544

A Member of:

www.ci t iscapegroup.com • Emai l : info@cit iscape.ae


strip

e b

ack

gro

und.in

dd 1

7/5

/11 3

:47:0

6 P

M

Another reason for the intended educational component of this park was the identification, through the previous studies made by the government, of a very good network of vehicular access. At a metropolitan scale, the Periferico Sur provides access from Mexico DF and several other important nearby cities; in addition, pedestrian needs are also met by an important bridge located very close to the site. In order to take advantage of this presence, GDU established a second access to the park, assuring a more complete range of options for visitors arriving by different means. Today, several polls carried out in the park while having especial events, revealed that the influx of people into the site comes not only from the neighborhoods of Puebla but also from other further areas and towns.

After being restructured and having its borders remodeled, the current contour of the lagoon is laid out as a triangle - which shapes a main basin - with a long “tail” that grows toward the south. This linear piece follows a natural channel which is utilized as a rainwater discharge duct and whose edges, more profusely planted, are preserved as a natural reserve. This part of the park, as well as some of the surrounding areas of the aquatic surface, offer spaces for picnicking and relaxation, becoming bucolic expressions of the past. Cupresus Mucronatum (cypresses), Fraxinus Udhei (ash tree), Salix (willows) and Populus alba (white poplars) are some of the selected tree species for these spots.

Inside the main basin´s perimeter were

built observation terraces and mounds intensively planted with riparian vegetation, reusing the silt and dirt recovered from the excavations in the lagoon. These elements appear as small floating islands that, on the one hand, grant an eye-catching picture of the water and, on the other, act as fauna attractor pieces which seek to become ecological niches and natural habitats for amphibian fauna. Visitors can walk into these spaces from an interior path system which runs around the full extent of the lagoon; at certain points, this pathway is at ground level and is bordered by trees and grassed areas, and in some segments it juts out into the water and crosses through the aquatic plane to finally reach the mounds. These new formations are supported by a rocky edge which avoids soil erosion when the water level is too high.

A large accessing piazza is directly connected to the main access and to the Center for Environmental Education. This building offers a very flexible layout which allows the housing of different activities such as administration, showroom and a small auditorium for special classes, meetings or educational events; a large metallic roof covers the glass structure which defines the building itself and provides a semi-roofed area for open-air programs. Usually, the temperature in Puebla is really high as is the need for shady spaces.

This piazza is the largest concrete area in the park, built on top of filled-in land. A significant part of this esplanade is designed as a mixed pavement which alternates rock

Location: chapulco Lagoon, puebla, méxico

area: 18 Ha

date of completion: 2010

client: government of the city of puebla

master plan and Landscape design: mario schjetnan / grupo de diseño urbano

project coordinator: marco arturo gonzález



strip

e b

ack

gro

und.in

dd 1

7/5

/11 3

:47:0

6 P

M

and grass, thus turning into a rainwater retaining surface that serves for natural irrigation purposes. When it meets the lagoon, the piazza becomes a very large staircase which leads into the water; in order to respond to the different possible water levels of the lagoon, this staircase goes down four meters deep, presenting two horizontal planes or resting areas. When the water level is the lowest, approximately 1, 20 meters high, the staircase can be appreciated in all its extension; when the water level is high, only part of it is visible. The original idea was to offer a small landing area for boats but this was not completed yet.

The retaining wall, which contains the lagoon´s water, had been originally projected as a concrete piece; however, during the construction process, which coincided with the rainy season, GDU decided to design it as an almost two meter-wide gabion which would respond more efficiently to the existing conditions of the site. This gabion is seven meters high, of which two are below the lagoon´s bottom level; as a result, when the water reaches its highest levels the gabion is still visible and helps to avoid any possible floods. Ergonomically-designed colorful benches, solar lamps and sets of concrete benches and tables

among newly planted trees furnish this piazza. In addition, a field for multiple uses, such as soccer and basketball, and a local police office complete the site´s services for the community. At the opposite extreme of the park, along the south linear piece, playgrounds, seating areas and paths which get close to the existing channel are complemented with another quite large building for various social uses.

This channel was thought of as part of the rainwater discharge system of the lagoon. Pluvial water is harnessed in two other channels located to the north-northwest and northeast corners of the lagoon and, when the water level in the main basin rises by more than four meters it is channeled out of

the site. Since the proposed treatment plan has not yet been built and the site´s cistern was built a little too high, the irrigation system experiences some problems when there is a lack of rain.

In spite of this, which is under a revision process, and of the fact that the local government has changed and consequently some political differences have started to arise, the park is generally considered an asset of the city. This means that the site is truly used as an educational centre and people from surrounding and further neighborhoods consider the park as an open area for learning, getting in touch with nature and, of course, as a recreational area.


5� i www.landscape-me.com i september 2011www.makpools.com

SERVICES PROVIDEDAnnual maintenance packages

Leak detect ion & rect i f icat ion

Microbiological analysis & chemical reports

Old to new restorat ions

Chlor ine to Non-Chlor ine conversions

Automat ic pool c leaner instal lat ions

Chemical sales & del ivery

Special ized MEP consul tancy

Safety covers & fences

General suppl ies for a l l pools

LED LightingMembers of:

www.propoolpro.com


RiYadH: King Khalid airport Road: tel. No.: 00966 (1) 4655555

JeddaH: al andalus tel. No.: 00966 (2) 6686666

KHOBaR: Coast Road tel. No.: 00966 (3) 8590066

dUBai sheikh Zayed Road tel. No. 00971 (4) 3296630

• email: [email protected] • pO Box 4756 Riyadh 11412, Ksa• email: [email protected] • pO Box 181581 dubai, Uae

• website: www.zaidg.com

• landscaping development the hard and soft scape• irrigation• Horticultural supplies, lawns and specimen plants

landscape september 2011

Documents