Author: Land8: Landscape Architects Network

Article by Lidija Šuster Neue Meile, by Bauchplan, in Böblingen, Germany. Taking a closer look at how they use LED Technology What happens when a street is not just a physical connection between two landmarks? What if the street becomes an attraction itself rather than simple route for pedestrians? The landscape architects of Bauchplan gave us the perfect answer – linking the railway station and center of old town of Böblingen, in a way that’s more than usual. Transforming the car-friendly space into a pedestrian’s area was surely not an easy task. The landscape architects were faced with many obstacles in putting together safety, a specific location, attractiveness and comfort, and making the space both functional and beautiful at the same time.

LED Technology

Using lighting in a different way than ordinary helps to those characteristics become conjoined, and here innovative LED lighting plays a major role. Imagine giant-sized light rings that are hovering above the ground, magically glowing when it’s night and catching your eye during the day. Sounds magnificent, don’t you think? Thanks to the manufacturer Bergmeister Leuchten and light planners at Lumen3 Lighting Design, as well as the contribution by OSRAM of the innovative LED technology, the landscape architects of Bauchplan were able to bring to life this very unique space.

Transforming the Bahnhofstraße into Neue Meile When you think about lights in a certain area, what comes up in your mind? For sure you can think about security. And that is very important thing that people need in public spaces – a feeling of safety. If you provide them with that feeling, people will visit that space more often and actually enjoy staying there. When arranging a safe place, landscape architects are privileged to do that with unleashed imagination. Transforming the „Bahnhofstraße“ into an outstanding pedestrian zone was quite a challenge – railway stations are, in many cities, not considered to be spaces of public events or civic attractiveness. The main goal of this project was to make an unique and striking atmosphere. Cooperation of Technology, Imagination and Sustainability The magic happens when the sun goes down – there are 24 illuminated floating rings, each 2.5 meters in diameter, welcoming the pedestrians. The most important characteristic of these rings is that this illumination supports economic sustainability by reducing urban light emissions. Meaning, an LED street light can produce the same amount of luminescence as a traditional light, but requires only half of the power consumption. Why Use LED Lights? Also, in comparison with conventional lighting, LED lights have a two to four times longer life span. Another good thing here, for some people anyway, is that freakish-looking and spooky nocturnal insects are less attracted to LED lighting – they find more appealing the ultraviolet energy emitted by conventional lights. This is not only good for timid people, but also for the maintenance of precious wildlife. That means that insects will stay comfortably located in their natural habitat instead of being attracted to artificial lights. Their predators will also benefit, and the natural balance will be less harmed. The Day and Night Experiences During the day those rounded installations are casting interesting shadows on the surface below them, but the night-time impact of this kind of illumination is guaranteed. Any space that is illuminated at night is more inviting and friendlier. Here it is also the case – when lights are on, the feeling of safety and warmth is on, too. The glimmering, semi-transparent rings (with fourteen LED spots each) are specially designed to illuminate without glare, each of them creating a rounded pool of interesting light with a different intensity. Also, they can change to any color, which makes them suitable for different atmospheres needed for special occasions or events. Their unusual appearance could look like some miniature UFOs that are mystically hovering above the street, but everything is left to people’s imagination and spatial perception. Enrichment with Elements on the Ground Of course, the complete atmosphere is achieved with elements on the ground. Natural stone pavement spreads all over the street with a pixel-like appearance. The numerous rectangular granite stones provide an interesting floor in various hues of cream and grey, reminding one of some hand-made tapestry attached to the ground. Water – A Vital Landscape Element Further, there is another vital landscape element that is always advisable to be included in design – and you’ve probably guessed it – water. Water has always been present in all kinds of spaces. So we have it here in Neue Meile, and it’s successfully implemented in the overall design in the form of a dry-deck fountain. These types of fountains are very attractive and catchy for the eye, due to their ability to bring rhythm and movement to the space. They are special because they have a hidden structure, which means that we see water splashing up from the ground, but that the equipment needed for making the splashes is under ground. Neue Meile fountain has thirty jets – three rows with ten jets each. Also, the fountain acoustically affects the space and, if not totally, at least partially shuts down the annoying sound of traffic. Circles, Cubes and Rectangles Considering that the objects in the air are all circular elements, down on the earth there are cubes and rectangles – and with that use of different shapes is accomplished diversity and contrast in the space. Tree grids and drainage covers are cube-shaped and follow specifically designed drainage channels. Street furniture includes bike counters, post-benches, outdoor sofas and freely rotating single seats. These are made of steel substructures with thermo-wood slats out of local ash timber. All of this furniture is natural-coloured – varieties of soft-brown – which follow the natural colour of wood. Long benches provide enough space for sitting, and the rotating single seats can be interpreted as equipment for kids to play on. Thanks to the good location and now rich pedestrian traffic, this space is becoming more and more popular. Its extraordinary features make it outstanding and recognizable, and that is especially highlighted with natural materials and the innovative lighting technology. What do you think, is this kind of LED technology a new way to improve the look of our streets? Let us know in the comment section below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For „neue Meile“ Böblingen:

Project Name: „neue Meile“ Böblingen Location: Böblingen, Germany Landscape Architect Group: Bauchplan Lighting Design: Lumen³ Lighting Design Technology: Electronic Control Gear, Led, Led Modules Luminaire Manufacturer: Bergmeister-leuchten Gmbh Builder: City Of Böblingen Application Area: Traffic Systems Sub-application: Street Date Of Construction: 2013 – 2015 Size: 25,000 Sqft – 100,000 Sqft Client: City of Böblingen, amt für tiefbau u. grünflächen (department for civil engineering and open spaces) Size: incl. side streets approx. 18.000 m2 Cost: 8,5 mio Euro Photo Credits: Bauchplan ).( and C. Franke Award: 1st prize cooperative workshop Learn more about Bauchplan: Website: www.bauchplan.de Facebook: www.facebook.com/bauchplan Twitter: www.twitter.com/bauchplan LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/bauchplan XING: www.xing.com/companies/bauchplan Youtube: www.youtube.com/channel Google+: www.plus.google.com/u/0/+BauchplanNetwork Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Lidija Šuster Return to Homepage

Article by Agmarie Calderón Alonso Minton Housing Development, by DP Architects in Serangoon in Singapore, Asia The Minton housing development comprises ten 15-story and eight 17-story apartment blocks, with a total of 1,145 units including 24 units of penthouses. Despite its size, this development creates a real visualization of how the landscape as open spaces can create different experiences. All blocks are oriented in the north-south direction in three linear rows, with ample spaces maintained between the blocks. Two of the three sky terraces accommodate spa facilities for residents, while the third serves as a landscaped deck connected to a bridge that links the different levels in this development.

Minton Housing Development

This concept of high living features the amenities that come with a standard condominium, but to another level. It is a type of lifestyle that is just unbelievable, but with an edge in its landscape surroundings. For example, this complex of housing has activity rooms for yoga, billiards, table soccer, karaoke, piano and table tennis. Furthermore they have childcare, other sports facilities, an 82-seat library and spas.

Space Between Spaces The design reflects the increasingly sophisticated demands of the modern homeowner and markets a lifestyle package for the whole family. The type of living in Minton is unimaginable until now. DP Architects decided to create not just a different living system but to use the landscape in a strategic way to have space between spaces. To have soft (natural space) and hard (building space) creations, by arranging everything the way it is, the combination of the building in contrast with the natural way the landscape curves in the open spaces is brilliant. Nature and Architecture Coming Together Extensive use of glass panels on the elevations adds elegance to the suburban houses. The clean lines add rhythm to the multiple structures that the architects have designed into the space, creating a sense of playfulness while breaking down the scale of a long façade. Lush greenery establishes an environment of urban escape. The eye-catching bridge that connects the buildings also gives the tenants a spectacular view of their surroundings. This design takes the urban setting and transforms it into a living experience like no other. The green (natural system) is incorporated with the grey (housing system); this color combination, in the simplest way, gives a unique look to the project. This is a design where people can live but also feel like living because it is not all concrete construction, but a clean contrast between natural surroundings and “simple” housing. The architects decided to create high-rise living, while keeping horizontal connections throughout the space. They conceived a variety of experiences as you go through each area, letting nature guide you in some way. Not having a city-like setting, but letting the green be the limit to the space. Letting Nature Take Over I believe this is a genius design, a brilliant concept, letting nature “takeover” the area. Nature comes first and the housing development is second, I have no doubt about that, just because people need to have a high standard of living does not mean nature has to go. The answer is to let the topography take its course, adjusting the buidling to what nature is giving you.   User Experience From Top to Bottom This design is at a new level of integrating with the land; they thought of every experience, high and low, with three main points of viewing the space (a 70m bridge, a cascading waterfall and an amazonian lily pond). The designers experimented with heights, so the tenants can appreciate all of their surroundings. By using the topography, they’ve built a sensory experience into a fun way of expressing the notion that getting through a space does not have to be linear. My honest opinion is that this development is beyond its years, the creativity and attention to detail that has gone into what is now a housing site; it just takes my breath away. I would have never conceived of something like this, even in my wildest imagination. This team knows what they are doing, and it is done right. People should know more about DP Architects and what they are capable of. Their architecture is beautiful, but the landscape is just breathtaking. The space is conceived brilliantly; they not only thought of the building, but the greenery as well; considering the movement through the area, how the person should feel, experience, and see. It’s just a great project to look at and to study for future references. This is a captivating design, with amazing and bold gestures drawn into the landscape, which is what we need more of. Landscape architects and students should look up to DP Architects, their work speaks volumes about how they create magnificent spaces. What do you think of this project? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For Minton Housing Development:

Project Name: Minton Housing Development Location: Serangoon in Singapore, Asia Year of Completion: 2014 Area: 123,900sqm Architect: DP Architects Pte Ltd Project Team Members: Tong Bin Sin, Mike Lim, Wang Tse Lip, Toh Li Chuin, Divino Carrillo, Firman Saleh, Jacob Sandoval, Joseph Chua, Mochamad Herman Irfany, Pek Hui Xian, Roslinah Ahmad, Ross Vinco, Rowell Mendoza, See Phei Kee, Tan Teng Siew Learn more about DP Architects Pte Ltd: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ADM.TechnologyFormingIdentity Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Agmarie Calderón Alonso Return to Homepage

Article by Irmak Bilir The Riverside Terrace, by OOO “ADM”, Tatyshev Island, Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation. The Riverside Terrace is a project which shows us that naturalizing a space can make a project compatible with people. Krasnoyarsk is a city, located in Siberia / Russian Federation, that is on the Yenisei River. It has a natural landscape which is shaped by the river even though it is an industrial city. The Yenisei forms some large and some small islands. Tatyshev Island is the biggest one which is in the center of Krasnoyarsk and is surrounded by urban areas but has a unique natural landscape too; therefore, it is very significant for the inhabitants of the city.

The Riverside Terrace

The Riverside Terrace, by OOO “ADM”, is located on the north side of Tatyshev Island, and shows us two simple principles which can make a project wonderful. The project is designed in harmony with the nature of the island; moreover, it thinks of mankind as a part of that ‘nature’; this is one of the two guiding principles.

Let’s have a look at how the Riverside Terrace brings this principle to life The area is used for recreational activities and transportation to Tatyshev Island is provided by bridges that connect the city to this natural area. There is also river transport with a high-speed option, so it has a few ports, and bridge connections, which allows vehicular traffic. The first principle guiding this project was that the architects of OOO “ADM” planned the park’s concept on the integration of recreational and public spaces within Krasnoyarsk. The second principle was to think of man as a part of nature. The design aims to get attention with the power of primeval nature. How do These Two Simple Principles Create the Riverside Terrace? The two principles suggested the creation of a communication between people and nature within the philosophy of ecological interrelations by building a network of architectural and landscape objects. The architects state that “These objects were designed using integral modular stylistic unit “Moth” that was created especially for Tatyshev Island from our space structural building system “ADM”.” The ADM network ‘s architectural structures stylistically connect urban architecture and nature. The materials that are used for “Moth” are universalized metal joints and wooden lacings. There are lots of possible demountable architectural objects that can be built with these materials. Different sizes, shapes and functions, from kiosks and informational stands to big pavilions and covered stages are possible. Wood is natural and is good for human psychology because it doesn’t contain any electrostatic charge, so it’s healthy. For these reasons, wood is the best choice for projects which strive to make people a part of nature and to integrate urban architecture and nature. The Moth’s design was inspired by images of Siberian nature embodied in the landscape of the island and by the history of ethnic groups of the place. The second principle plays a part in this combination of influences. The building form is associated with brutal, archaic, and modern constructional and technological style codes simultaneously. The natural and versatile modeling structures made of simple nodes are used for shape-generating. It allows many forms; wood decks, terraces, benches, etc., to be created. Where Does the Terrace Appear? The terrace is located on the north shore of the island in a place where three different types of roads go along the shore. These are the main asphalt road, a running track, and a stone path. The main road allows pedestrian and traffic such as bicycles, roller skates and skateboards with two divided lanes and the running track has a special covering. These are generally separated from the bank by a line of trees although in some areas the road meets the river. The stone path continues along the river and comes down near the terrace, connecting the quiet coastal area to three terraces where a person enters a tactile interaction with nature. The Flora Near the Riverside Terrace Two big poplar trees (Populus spp.) and a line of birches (Betula spp.) are the most outstanding part of the Riverside Terrace. The poplars are useful for the banks of the river with their ecology and appearance. Especially for the vegetation season, the presence of water in the soil is required for the appropriate growth of poplars. Furthermore, the circumambient soil around their roots must be cool, a condition which is present in this area. The birches also add a great coherence to the scene with their white-colored wood. Poplars and birches are both deciduous and Krasnoyarsk’s weather has average of -6.5 degrees; moreover, it is winter for three seasons of each year. Therefore, snow is the most frequent guest to the area! When the trees defoliate, the landscape is truly amazing with the snow and wood surface of the terrace. The terrace has two levels of wood decks; on the top level, there is a sunshade made from structural “Moth” units and a bench. The beauty of Siberian nature is reflected by the complete architectural design of the Riverside Terrace. The terrace with its organic generation of forms becomes a manmade part of the natural landscape of the island. In the central public space of the island, there are two different squares with informational and exhibition stands with long benches of different shapes. A street library is also located in this area. These are examples of the first principle; integrating recreational areas and public spaces. The Riverside Terrace shows the primeval nature of Siberian beauty while thinking of man as a part of that nature and simultaneously integrates recreational and public spaces. These principles created this natural area in an industrial city where a desire for nature is generally the most desired element of all. What do you think about The Riverside Terrace project? Do you think the two principles are transferred to the design well? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For The Riverside Terrace:

Project Name: The Riverside Terrace Designers: OOO “ADM” Location: Tatyshev Island, Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation Project Year: 2013-2014 Design Architect: Aleksei Miakota Project Team: Elena Elizarova, Ekaterina Kalashnikova, Olga Loginova, Olga Zhukova Client: MAU Direktciia sportivno-massovykh meropriiatii Photographs: Aleksei Miakota, Lidiia Gribakina Learn more about OOO “ADM”: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ADM.TechnologyFormingIdentity Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Irmak Bilir Return to Homepage

Article by Amela Đurakovac Roombeek The Brook, by Buro Sant en Co, in Enschede, The Netherlands Streets are one of the most important elements in any city, not only because they bring together different parts of the settlement, but also because they connect the series of events that are important for residents. Streets are the places where we live, work, and play. There are different types of streets that can be divided on the basis of exposure, location, length and width, significance of the presence of green areas, and — most importantly — the people and their presence. The social role of a street is exactly that – the option of meeting or organizing social life and allowing residents to feel safe and to contribute to the quality of the city. So what makes a successful urban street? One that is visually and functionally appropriate to its users. Can a street emulate nature, restore life in the urban center, and completely change our idea of a city roadway? Oh, yes indeed!

Roombeek The Brook by Buro Sant en Co

Old for New: Bringing Back the City River In the city Enschede in The Netherlands, you can see an example of this kind of street. This street is a central point of the city, and thanks to its design, it also draws attention to one of the most important elements of the city — The Roombeek River.

Many years ago, this city was the place with the highest number of streams in The Netherlands — including the Roombeek – but those waterways were largely contaminated due to increased industrialization. In addition, the construction of a large house hid the river from public view. City officials wanted to clean up the river and restore its public persona. The plan for urban reconstruction was defined by long lines that have a distinctive character. The lines follow the original draft of the village and connect the space with surrounding neighborhoods. Creating a Micro-Relief The river is visible in many parts of the city and also is represented through the central part of the adjacent street, in the form of water line elements in an asymmetrical design, creating a micro-relief. The water in the street has different dimensions in some parts, in order to fully demonstrate the character of the river. Over the water are cracked, artificial stones similar to those found in the stream. They are of various dimensions and shapes, and they really look amazing! They are placed organically, without too much processing, so that they more resemble real stones that can be found along the river. Seasonal Change and the Landscape In addition, these stones reflect the incredible pattern in all seasons. In summer, they reflect sun rays and in winter, the white color arising from the snow only further emphasizes the surface of the stones. The stones are also symbolic of an accident at a fireworks factory that happened here years ago. The presence of water also has a calming effect. Functionality and Beauty This water surface brook is not only designed to become a city symbol and a part of the urban environment, but also plays a role in the reduction of the flow of water. The bottom of the brook is designed as a special shape — transverse ribbed, with concrete structure — that causes constant movement of the floor and water surface. Lined around this water surface are deciduous trees, with interesting bark and leaf color, urban furniture such as benches and trash bins, and interesting paving. All of these elements together form a street with visual identity and a sense of place, with recognizable structure. Functionality, sustainability, the spirit of the place, and the central point of socialization — yes, that is Roombek The Brook street. Good cities and towns require good streets. Because of that, it is very important that streets are no longer just places that lead to certain points, but also are places where residents can feel safe and where they want to spend time. With new technologies in design, they also become places that promote ecology and sustainable development. These are all important things that we should pay attention to when we create new city streets. Roombeek The Brook street is one example of how local natural elements, such as water, can be implemented in the urban area very successfully. Merging certain characteristics of the location or its environment can really be of great importance for the birth of new ideas when planning an urban area. What what do you think of this project? Let us know in the comments section below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For Roombeek The Brook:

Project Name: Roombeek The Brook Landscape Architects: Buro Sant en Co Location: Enschede, The Netherlands Date of Construction: Design: 2003; Implementation period: 2005 Size: 13,600 m2 Construction Cost: 16.5 million euro Client: Municipality of Enschede Learn more about Buro Sant en Co: Website: www.santenco.nl Twitter: www.twitter.com/santenco Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Amela Đurakovac Return to Homepage

Article by Kaila Johnson Gordan Lederer Memorial, by NFO, in Čukur Hill in, Croatia. What comes to mind when thinking about a memorial? Most would perhaps say a statue, plaque, or some other singular structure aimed at commemorating a specific person or event. Memorials are erected to commemorate people, events, and significant happenings of times past. The Gordon Lederer Memorial is no different in that it commemorates a specific person and event: a Croatian photo- and videographer who was killed by a sniper while filming soldiers in the Čukur Hills. However, it does so by using the whole landscape as the memorial itself. In this particular location, photographer Gordon Lederer was killed by a sniper on August 10th, 1991, while filming Croatian soldiers in action on Čukur Hill in the Bania Region.

The Story

The memorial was created as part of a design competition, put on by Croatian Radio Television (HRT), as a plan to commemorate all locations where HRT photo and videographers were killed during the war in Croatia in the 90’s. So what, exactly, does this have to do with landscape architecture? Well, the winning design, by NFO, turned the landscape into the memorial itself by injecting it with art, architecture, and sculptural elements, with a main emphasis on the breathtaking natural landscape surrounding this space.

The Materials

The materials used in this landscape are especially interesting, in that they don’t actually focus on the vegetation, but on the hard, human-fabricated materials used within the design. In fact, the only vegetation actively featured in this design is the grass that surrounds the walkways. This allows the sculptural and architectural elements of the site to stand out, as well as the beauty of the surrounding natural environment to be highlighted.

The Journey of Lederer’s Life

The surrounding landscape of the Čukur Hills features dense willow and poplar forests along the rolling hills. The whole design is aimed at being a pathway, which illustrates Lederer’s life as a photographer. The path is constructed out of concrete slabs which are framed by black steel, mimicking film negatives and representing significant events in Lederer’s life.

Symbolism in Design

It begins with small blocks of concrete, spaced apart at varying distances by crushed limestone gravel and appearing to be “broken”; but as one moves along, the slabs become closer and closer together until they are strung together in a continuous pathway. See More Memorial Based Designs:

• Diana Memorial Fountain: “Reaching Out, Letting In”
• Landscape Storytelling – Memorial to Victims of Violence
• How A Symbol of Tragedy Can Encourage People to Look into the Future

The Camera Lense and the Bullet Hole

It continues along and meanders strategically across a plateau, and culminates in a large, circular glass frame that serves as a vantage point and lookout on the incredible natural landscape surrounding this space. This glass frame is encased in stainless steel, resembling a camera lens and representing the circle of life, and showcases the exact location where Lederer died taking his final shots. The glass has an imitation bullet hole within it, to undeniably illustrate the historically tragic event that took place on the site. Upon approaching the lens, the pathway splits and one section rises up beside the walkway.

Breathtaking Views 

Here, the visitor is free to experience the lens and the landscape from the raised portion, which can act as a bench, or they can continue across the grass to the sculpture itself for a close-up view. Once the site visitor reaches the glass lens, they are welcomed by breathtaking views of the Una River Valley, where they can reflect on the events that occurred through the sculptural elements, while appreciating nature in its raw beauty.

The Landscape as the Memorial

In this design, the landscape is the memorial. There are architectural and sculptural elements that add to the design, and though the vegetation isn’t the primary feature of the site, the lack of vegetation allows the visitor to experience just how important the human-made features are, without detracting from the fact that it is a memorial. NFO further develops this idea by creating an experience for the visitor, with a pathway that acts as a journey, telling a story, until one comes to the end where they can see, think about, and reflect on the “end” of a life, while sharing in its beauty.

A Memorial that Stretches the Boundaries

The Gordan Lederer Memorial by NFO is a special memorial, both for whom and what it represents, and for how it is physically represented. It serves as a constant reminder of the devastating effects of war, but celebrates the life of someone who dedicated their life to capturing the beauty in their surroundings and showcases this beauty in an everlasting, unique, and well-thought-out memorial that uses the entire landscape as part of its story. This design shows that memorials can stretch the boundaries of what they’re traditionally thought to be, without losing sight of the person, place, or event that they are commemorating. Do you think this is an effective way to commemorate someone or something? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For Gordan Lederer Memorial:

Project Name: Gordan Lederer Memorial Location: Čukur hill, Hrvatska Kostajnica, Croatia Authors: NFO (Kata Marunica, architect, Nenad Ravnić, architect.) + prof.Petar Barišić,sculptor Project team: Sandra Perić, NFO architect; Nikica Pavlović,NFO architect; Filip Vidović, NFO architect; Dragan Mileusnić; Željko Serdarević Investor: Croatian Radiotelevision – HRT , project manager prof. Milan Bešlić Contractor: Beton Lučko d.o.o., Piletić staklo d.o.o., Šurba d.o.o., Telektra d.o.o. Photographers: Bosnić+Dorotić, Boris Kovačev / CROPIX, Daniel Pavlić Completion: August 2015 Learn more about NFO: Website: www.nfo.hr Facebook: www.facebook.com/nfoarhitektura Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Kaila Johnson Return to Homepage

Article by Agmarie Calderón Alonso The Soundwave, by Penda, in Xiangyang, Hubei, China. The Soundwave sculpture by Penda Architects at the Myrtle Tree Garden in Xiangyang, China takes your breath away. Made up of 500 purple pillars of varying heights, the installation pays homage to the rising and falling bars of a digital sound visualizer. The Fins, which form the rhythm of the sculpture, are cladd with perforated purple stainless steel panels. Through an electrolytic passivation process (anodized), the panels were colored in a bath of electrolyte and electricity, which keeps the main characteristics of the steel unimpaired and corrosion resistant.

The Soundwave by Penda

How this exercise in creativity came together is just amazing. Escape the chaos of the city and enter a world of sensory experience. To let your imagination go and create something that you never thought possible, now that’s outstanding.

“Music, rhythm and dance in combination with the surrounding landscape were the main parameters shaping The Soundwave”- Chris Precht & Dayong Sun (Penda designers & founders) Realizing that music, art, and nature could coexist, Penda has gone beyond what we knew about landscape and created an interactive space between the city and the Myrtle Tree Garden. This work was inspired by the Johann Wolfgang von Goethe quote “Music is liquid architecture; architecture is frozen music”. Applying color, vibration, and height has given this site a new perspective into what the future of landscape could become. The future is here, that’s what has been taught since the year 2000 or Y2K arrived, but who taught that could happen within nature? See for yourself how this project does not collide but glazes onto the existing space perfectly, making a beautiful space even more interesting. Detail is Always the Key Detail is key in the execution of this massive idea. By day the reflection of the sun hits the panels and transforms the space by making the appearance of the sculpture different every time. The fins are located in 4 different water ponds which adds a shimmering look to them, including the reflection of the water that adds a play of light. During the night, within the lighting of the fins, the sculpture has a constant image transformation. With the visitors also moving through the plaza, this makes an interesting reaction between the fins and the people. Sound Waves or a City Skyline Creating a transition between city and landscape, this sculpture has the magnificence of becoming an interpretation of a skyline seen at a distance. It is like seeing a miniature city while approaching the installation. This is a genius approach into what the space could be and creates a sense of expectation for the visitors. The way they thought of movement, transitions, and the space itself; understanding the land and the way it is so the installation could be one with it. Connecting land and sound at a different and unique level makes possible this creation, and letting the city “in”, stimulating the senses of color and light, creates a space between nature and humanity, and the possibility of a new and better way of living. Fluidity and form engage nature, people, and sound into one useful space. Becoming interactive with what is already there and pushing the boundaries of what is not naturally part of the space was the experiment. A complex understanding of how land and waves (meaning the sound visualizer) interact to create a public spectacle has been a great match. Bringing the Site to Life This team came up with what one could call an outstanding invention; nature has its own sound, but maximizing its potential to this degree is just brilliant. The scheme cultivates interest not only for the space itself, but also how it became so. The Soundwave comes to life through traditional Chinese music and lights, which are activated when individuals explore the site. Understanding the Meaning Behind the Design One could debate that this idea is crazy, but the more you learn about the understanding behind the “madness”, the making of this project makes more sense. Penda really understood the area, the people visiting, and the city; these three factors help make this wonderful space possible. They have created an interactive space activated by an engaged audience and their movement between the spaces. Penda really understood the area, the people visiting, and the city; these three factors help make this wonderful space possible. They have created an interactive space activated by an engaged audience and their movement between the spaces. By researching this place I have learned that landscape can be anything you can imagine in your mind; it is not just trees and shrubs in some remote place. It is land where you can conceive an idea and develop genuine masterpieces. Penda architects surpassed my expectations on what one could think landscape architecture could be, and brought to life what it should be; the merging of beautiful ideas. Did you like this project? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For The Soundwave:

Project Name: The Soundwave Architects: Penda Project Team: Dayong Sun, Chris Precht, Fei Tang Precht, Yongjian Huang, Zhonghua Tang, Chunlei Zhu, Junfeng Li, Runxin Tang Location: Xiangyang / Hubei / China Type: Public installation, landscape design Size: 5000, 0 sq. Year: 2013-2015 Photo Credits: Xia Zhi Learn more about Penda: Website: www.home-of-penda.com Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Agmarie Calderón Alonso Return to Homepage

Article by Yang Su Casa Sardinera, by RAMON ESTEVE ESTUDIO, in Jávea, Alicante, Spain. People are always fascinated by romantic and adventurous islands that offer a sense of escape from their stressful lifestyles. The Sardinera House, designed by RAMON ESTEVE ESTUDIO, is located in an appealing and valued Mediterranean landscape that has a profound connection with its society and has preserved its own character over time. Sardinera House sits on the top of a hillside surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, between EI Portixol and Cala Blanca.

Casa Sardinera, by RAMON ESTEVE ESTUDIO, Spain

The unique location inspired the design concept, which is described by RAMON ESTEVE ESTUDIO: “The original idea for the design was based on enjoying and enhancing the panoramic views of the setting, by creating a relaxing, contemplative environment that allows enjoying the experience provided by the place.”

Dancing with the Mediterranean Landscape The varied Mediterranean landscape generates diverse habitats, ranging from lagoons and vegetated sand dunes along the coasts to widespread maquis and forests in the mountains. The garden of Casa Sardinera exhibits several areas of diverse character. All of the vegetation is indigenous and distinctive, from the prevalent species such as Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis) and maritime pine (Pinus pinaster) to the citrus trees and herbal plants on different levels, confined by masonry walls. Wild olive (Olea europaeasubsp, sylvestris) is planted in the entrance. The native vegetation is well integrated with the environment, provides habitats for native species, and adapts well to controlled consumption of water resources. Mediterranean Cultural Landscape Cultural background is one of the elements in considering the process of any landscape design. In addition, the unique Mediterranean landscape provides both ecological and economic benefits. In an ecological aspect, endangered species and diverse plant communities are currently conserved in the protected areas of the island. In this project, the garden design further reflects the cultural landscape of cultivation and the consideration of providing habitats for endangered species and diverse plant communities. But residential expansion and an increase in tourism have adversely affected agricultural ecosystems and destroyed coastal maquis systems. How can we achieve a balance in constructing houses, welcoming human activities, and protecting the environment on an island? Concrete walls are repeatedly placed in “ladder” patterns, which condense and enlarge the views. The concrete walls allow the cantilevers to fit in between each other to form a strong connection. In addition, long cantilevers facing the sea balance the vertical concrete walls, which create paradoxical feelings of massiveness and lightness. The cantilevers also create verandas for second floors. In addition, the western façade is made of Accoya wood, which blocks sunlight and confines the view from the street. Meanwhile, the eastern façade is permeable and visible, with huge glass panes and soft curtains bringing in the fresh Mediterranean atmosphere. Interestingly, diverse materials are artfully melted together because of similar color, while the subtle changes of texture make the building unique and appealing. Furthermore, the expressive materials reflect the construction process. Diversity, Fragmentation, and Connectivity Mediterranean landscapes highlight their diversity, fragmentation, and connectivity. In other words, their ecological networks and greenways provide spatial connectivity and maintain biological diversity, overcoming fragmentation due to human activity. In this project, introducing the garden to the house articulates the spatial connectivity. Both multi-interior space and outdoor space are connected innovatively by landscape, which overcomes fragmentation of the building and surrounding landscape and creates habitats for species, as well. Furthermore, the connected horizon is defined by the architectural and pool surfaces. Openness The construction of different materials cleverly frames the view and creates openness, as well. For example, glass corners provide much more exciting panoramic views. The transparent staircase is made of glass, which makes the sea visible and permits the natural light to cast the basement. Furthermore, every glass balcony increases the visual significance of the horizontal surfaces. Sustainable Ideas Applied in the Design The project’s east-west orientation ensures the use of the natural air and sunlight. In addition, as stated by RAMON ESTEVE ESTUDIO – “the large glass surfaces have been provided a double coating with thermal and acoustic insulation with solar control. The housing presents a wraparound of ten centimeters of extruded polystyrene, high density, which ensures a high thermal insulation.” Visual character, ecological biodiversity, and cultural issues are important elements that need to be considered in any landscape design. How could this project further creatively consider these elements, specifically in terms of biodiversity and cultural impact? Let us know what you think in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For The Urbanization of Historical Downtown Ripoll:

Project Name: Sardinera House Designers: RAMON ESTEVE ESTUDIO Location: Jávea, Alicante, Spain Year of Construction: 2014 Size: 1,285 square meters Collaborating Architects: Anna Bosca, Estefanía Pérez, Víctor Ruiz, María Martí Collaborators: Tudi Soriano, Natalia Fonseca Technical Architect: Emilio Pérez Constructor: Construcciones Francés Project Manager: Gonzalo Llin Photographer: Mariela Apollonio, Ramón Esteve Production and audiovisual: Alfonso Calza Construction Type: Structure and Shell made of exposed reinforcement white concrete Learn more about Comas-Pont Arquitectes: Website: www.ramonesteve.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/RamonEsteveEstudio Twitter: www.twitter.com/ramon_esteve Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/ramonesteve Vimeo: www.vimeo.com/ramonesteveestudio Google +: www.plus.google.com/EsteveEstudio Instagram: www.instagram.com/ramon_esteve LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/company/ramon-esteve-estudio Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Yang Su

Article by Paul McAtomney Urbanization of Historical Downtown Ripoll, by Comas-Pont Arquitectes, in Ripoll (Girona), Spain.  Historically and culturally significant urban environments offer a myriad of challenges for the landscape architect. How does one intervene while retaining the fundamental characteristics — be they physical, cultural, or social — of a place? How does one link past traces of a site with an artful telling of the landscape for future urban life? These were the questions asked of architectural duo Jordi Comas and Anna Pont, coalescing to form Comas-Pont Arquitectes, when charged with the reurbanization and pedestrianization of the historical center of the industrial mountain town of Ripoll, which sits 100 kilometers north of Barcelona in the Catalan region of Ripollés, Spain.

Urbanization of Historical Downtown Ripoll

Sliced by the rivers Ter and Freser and girdled by the Pyrenees, Ripoll was once a cultural and industrial nexus between the ninth and 19th centuries, boasting a powerhouse metallurgic and textile industry due to an abundance of natural resources. Now a busy commercial center, the capital of Ripollés owes its fame in large part to the Benedictine monastery of Santa María. Giving the Landscape Back to the Pedestrians Over the years, Ripoll’s historical center has been subject to pedestrianization through a number of isolated design schemes, both in terms of ideas and materials. Together, the two squares of plaça de Sant Eudald and plaça Gran form the historical core of Ripoll, the center of the city’s old town area, and the site of intervention.

Goals of the Project The driver for the design of Ripoll’s historical center is based on extending and improving the quality of pedestrian zones, commercial revitalization of ground-floor frontages, and the public activation of space. Comas-Pont strategized two key conceptual ideas — to place emphasis on plaça de Sant Eudald as the main village square and to reconceptualize plaça Gran as an avenue rather than a square due to its linear spatial structure and geometry. Plaça de Sant Eudald is named after the town’s patron saint, with a church once standing in the square dedicated to the priest and martyr. The church was demolished during the Spanish Civil War. Actions Taken by the Design Team The designers relinquished the square of furniture and objects to facilitate an unprogrammed space that can take on a variety of uses — an essential element of any public square. Furthermore, the designers recognized the historical and material layers on site through the reconstruction of the church’s footprint and perimeter, using Cor-ten steel juxtaposed against natural granite stone pavement. In doing so, Comas-Pont deftly expressed their deep reading of the site. Merging Features to Produce a Complete Harmonious Design Conceived as an avenue, plaça Gran, akin to plaça de Sant Eudald, is organized through material choice. Reinforcing the linearity of the space, a continuous Cor-ten steel element that seemingly protrudes out of the ground plane forms urban furniture and lighting fixtures before returning to grade to form a drainage system running the length of plaça Gran. This acts as an axial organizing element through the site and provides visual and spatial continuity. Using Trees to Create Space and Boundries The uniformity of the space is further emphasized by using the same paving throughout the square. Vehicle access and pedestrian space are instead demarcated primarily through a Birch plantation, providing a soft, vegetal threshold that also spatially defines another smaller rest zone. The use of Birch trees adds a delicate touch to the granitic quality of the urban landscape, as does the introduction of new materiality in the form of white stone placed around each tree’s trunk flare. A Look Back at the Materials Used As you have probably guessed by now, Comas-Pont’s material palette is modest, clean, and precise. Exactly the way it ought to be for a site of this nature. The designers conceived two “skins”. The primary skin is the natural granite paving, consolidating the overall landscape scheme into a unified whole. These granite stone pavers are collocated “a la Romana”, meaning “in the Roman way” — equating to three different paver widths and an emphasis on the longitudinal joints, in turn delineating the pedestrian system from the surrounding street grid and inviting pedestrians to meander and stroll. The aforementioned Cor-ten steel is used as a second skin to identify the church perimeter, urban furniture, lighting fixtures, and rest zones. With its earthy tones and rich patina, weathering steel was chosen for two reasons: To evoke Ripoll’s important past and historical ties to the metallurgic industry in Catalonia, and secondly, to cohesively meld with the paving design of the adjacent plaça de la Lira Theatre Public Domain that gives new life to a void left by the demolition of an old theater. Lighting in the Design Lighting in the design is allocated according to spatial character. The avenue contains lineal street lamps, more sculptural lighting fixtures in the stay/rest zones, and hanging lamps for the streets. The reconstruction of the church’s footprint is accentuated through in-pavement LEDs, delicately illuminating the square with the help of gleaming, ground-floor shop frontages. By acknowledging the site’s thick historical connections, its position as the nexus of Ripoll, and its context, Comas-Pont has recovered plaça de Sant Eudald and plaça Gran for public activation and use. The city’s two historical spaces now read as a cohesive, pedestrianized urban landscape and set the stage for the spectacle of urban life to come. What do you think of this project? Let us know in the comments section below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For The Urbanization of Historical Downtown Ripoll:

Project Name: Urbanization of Historical Downtown Designers: Comas-Pont Arquitectes Client: Ajuntament de Ripoll Location: Ripoll (Girona), Spain Area: 4,172 m² Photography: Jordi Comas Completed: 2009 Awards: Winning project of MADA AWARDS 2013 and selected project on VI Biennial Rosa Barba European Landscape Prize Learn more about Comas-Pont Arquitectes: Website: www.comas-pont.com Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Paul McAtomney

Article by Luis Guísar. Shoemaker Green by Andropogon Associates, in University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA The Shoemaker Green project designed by Andropogon Associates, a landscape office in Philadelphia, turns the eastward area of the University of Pennsylvania into a transitional space between the historical fabric of the campus core and the new, modern spaces of its eastward expansion. The subject of the landscape intervention was a residual space inside the campus that incorporated three tennis courts and narrow pathways that were not functional for the university’s expansion. The university wanted to transform the tennis courts into a functional space that would also be transitional and sustainable.

Shoemaker Green by Andropogon Associates

The project divides the area into four main gardens: The memorial garden, the Palestra Plaza, the water reuse garden and the front yard. The memorial garden, located at the corner of Smith Walk and South 33rd St., is the part of the project closest to the central part of the campus. Thus, the memorial garden could be understood as a lobby for the Shoemaker Green project. The hard pavement and low wall create a unique hardscape design, which at first glance seems to separate this corner from the rest of the project. But in fact, this design produces a sensation of being in an open lobby, from which users can walk either to the front yard, or the Math-Physics Astronomy Library or access Franklin Field.

The Palestra Plaza is identified as the staging area of the project. This plaza is defined by two special characteristics: Its location, which captures the site’s best solar orientation (allowing users to bask in the sunlight), and its materials and textures. Its social benches are elegant, stony volumes made of granite and wood. The pavement is made of the same granite, but with an evident rugosity and divided into small pieces, which allows pedestrians and bikers to feel comfortable passing by. It is a wonderful expression of art and craftsmanship. The Palestra Plaza functions as a gathering space for different events and accommodates multiple groups. The greener corner of the project is the water reuse garden. Some of the rainwater funneled from the rooftop of the surrounding buildings is exposed at this garden. The garden is located at the lowest point of the site and captures more than half of the site’s stormwater, creating a superficial runoff that is planted with native species associated with water. Thus, the celebration of water is edified in an ever-green garden. Finally, the main area of Shoemaker Green is the central green area called the front yard. It owns its name, because it is a big, green area that welcomes visitors and students and introduces them to the Department of Physics and Astronomy Building, the Hutchinson Gymnasium, and Franklin Field. But what is our interest in this area and how it becomes the milestone in the Shoemaker Green landscape design? The front yard has entirely modified the eastward part of the university. But in order to avoid being a completely new, strange area for the students, Andropogon architects studied the necessary pedestrian and bikers circulations of the zone and determined that the main circulation axis would determine the geometry for the front yard.   Its minimal aesthetic proposes spectacular panoramic views to enforce the existing buildings’ presence by a visual relationship between the constructions and the people. The location of the proposed tall trees partially covers the buildings to emphasize visual frames. The Perfect Excuse to Design a Rainwater System In general, the Shoemaker Green project faced a problem when talking about maintenance. The large grassy area was the perfect excuse to design a rainwater system to irrigate the Shoemaker Green areas.   The grass platform becomes a green skin that covers a stormwater system buried in the site. The site is built above 30 feet of urban fill. Therefore, a large portion of the existing tennis courts were left in place for subsurface storage. According to the University of Pennsylvania, the Shoemaker Green gardens “improve water quality and minimize runoff, reduce the effect of the urban heat island by greening large paved areas, restore biomass on site, increase local biodiversity, and improve the overall environment for the community.” (2007-2016. PennConnects, University of Pennsylvania) A Project Exceeding Expectations The project has functioned beyond what architects and engineers expected, and that is because of its stormwater system and landscape design. For example, after 24 hours of constant rain, water was still flowing to the cisterns five days later. Andropogon’s researchers assured that soil and vegetation are responsible for this. The Shoemaker Green project represents a break from the dense, urban setting of Philadelphia and offers a quiet green space where users can be immersed in nature. Besides this, the Shoemaker Green has been selected to be part of the Sustainable Sites Initiatives as a model for sustainable campus design. Do you think this system and design can be reproduced at your university? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For Shoemaker Green:

Project Name: Shoemaker Green Landscape Design: Andropogon Associates Ltd. Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA Year of Completion: Fall 2012 Area: 2.75 acres Client: University of Pennsylvania Photographer: Barrett Doherty and Andropogon Budget: $7.3 Million Learn more about Andropogon Associates: Website: www.andropogon.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/Andropogon-Associates Twitter: www.andropogon.com/twitter Tumblr: www.andropogon.com/tumblr LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/company Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Luis Guísar

Article by Erisa Nesimi Reflecting Courtyard, By Modaam Architects, in Tehran, Iran. Located in the same area as the settlements of Ancient Persia, Tehran is not the same city it used to be. The tradition of wonderful gardens which once made the Persian Empire famous through the ages has been lost in the attempts at progress towards a modernized world. In this article we are looking at a project which aims to bring back forgotten concepts that used to make these cities great. Modaam Architects frame their project as: “A hopeful attempt to recall these yards which are lost among the municipal codes, parking ramps and the gray mass of buildings” and “In search of lost yard”.

Reflecting Courtyard by Modaam Architects

Related also to its name, this is a project of reflection on the past. Their proposal is not only helpful towards the environment, but it’s a recall to the gardens of the past which made their environments enjoyable places in which to live. Lately, not only Tehean, but the world in general, is losing the vitality and spirit of places. But, what makes this project special?

Setting an Example for Future Projects A reflecting courtyard not only tries to learn from the past, but it also sets a benchmark for the future. Acting as a point of reference for other designs, the main concept of this project offers a lot to learn from. It represents an opportunity for better environments in which to live, work and play. It represents fewer environmental problems and healthier living conditions. The architects teach us that in order to build a better future, we should first look into the past. And certainly, in terms of urban development, Tehran can benefit a lot from these ideas. Transforming the Inner Atmosphere of the House Another reason why this design is so great is related to the way it has transformed the spaces, and how it has generated a variety of atmospheres. The garden is rather small in scale, but the impact on the surroundings is a considerable one. Experiencing it from the inner spaces, the courtyard adds vitality; it appears as if the garden is extending towards the inner environments, removing the barriers between the inside and outside. The garden creates atmospheres and enjoyable experiences not only by being in the outdoors, but it has transformed the inner environments of the house too. Walking past the doors that lead to the yard, or even glancing through the window becomes a wonderful experience due to the landscape features. Thoughtful Details Talking about landscape elements, the features which constitute this project are designed in such detail as to generate a unified design. The transition from the inside environment to the garden through the main door is emphasized by some simple extended steps of tiles and greenery, integrated with each other harmoniously. The hardscape is designed with brown tiles which emphasize the sense of warmth and organic quality of the project, whilst coordinating in perfect synchrony with the wall color. Placed in the corners of the yard space, the benches are made of wood, an element which accentuates the natural spirit of this design. Each and every element of this garden works individually but also as part of a holistic designed space. The greenery is a very present element in this project and it constitutes a prolific and fertile environment, with shrubs, grasses, and trees, which are placed in a hierarchical order from the shortest ones in the entrance of the garden to the tallest ones in the corners. This way, they allow for the possibility of a thorough view of the garden space. See More Garden Projects: 

• Award Winning Small Garden Design
• Why This Courtyard Garden Works When so Many Others Fail?
• Designer Achieves Outstanding Results With Terraced Garden

Lighting is another important feature. Generally speaking, gardens are thought of as places to enjoy only during the daytime, with little thought on how we can make them user-friendly in every period of the day. After all, time to relax is always needed, isn’t it? The architects here have thought about this issue too; well-placed lighting devices make this environment a wonderful experience during the evening and night. I would even say it becomes more vivid during the nighttime. We could not imagine a garden without water, could we? I guess you’re wondering how it is possible to include water features in such a small space. In a very creative way, the architects have introduced small-scale water details to emphasize the wonderful experience you can have in this garden. These elements are both beautiful and surprising. Water creates a feeling of movement and tranquility. I can only imagine the beautiful sounds of water throughout the yard. Just when you thought there were no more details to consider, the architects have yet another surprise for you. At the surrounding wall, in front of the main entrance of the garden, the architects have placed a longitudinal mirror, which not only gives the illusion of a larger space, but also shows the hidden water fountain which is placed close to it. With this ingenious element added, the garden becomes literally a reflecting courtyard. With each element being in the right place, this project shows a brilliant idea on how to completely transform your gray, ugly patios – no matter how small the space is or how impossible it may seem to you. It’s not only aesthetic but also functional and sustainable. As part of their quest to bring back lost concepts, the architects created a garden to reflect in, but it is also a garden to reflect on; a garden to learn from. What other ways of reintroducing lost concepts using landscape can you think of? Would you like to have such design? Is there something you’d add to the project? Let us know in the comments below. Go to comments

Full Project Credits For the Reflecting Courtyard by Modaam Architects :

Project Name: Reflecting Courtyard Location: Tehran, Iran Client: Mr. Kardanpour Construction: Sazeh Sadr Architects: Modaam Architects Photographer: Alireza Behpour Learn more about Modaam: Website: www.modaam.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/modaam.architects LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/modaam-architects Architizer: www.architizer.com/firms/modaam Blog: www.modaam.com/blog/ Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Erisa Nesimi

Article by Tahío Avila The Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Landscape Design by Claude Cormier + Associés, in Toronto (Ontario), Canada. Claude Cormier is an internationally acclaimed landscape architect and urban designer based in Montreal, Canada, whose projects can be seen around the world. His work is very multidisciplinary, and some people describe it as graphic and playful (we are about to see that in this article). I would call him an audacious and authentic conceptual designer who stands behind his beliefs.

The Four Seasons Hotel and Residences

Located on Bay Street in Toronto’s Yorkville neighborhood, the project consists of the hotel, a public library, and a fire hall. The designers created an urban carpet, a rose-shaped garden, and a public park to bring it all together.

The designers had to work between two types of elements and styles in the city: The modern metropolitan scale represented by the skyscrapers of the 21st century, and the Victorian home style of the 19th century. The two periods and scales needed to be united through the design of an urban area, plaza, or small garden at the base of the hotel towers. This space would connect the two separate styles, which the designers describe as “the contradiction of two conflicting forces viewed as the determining factor in their continuing interaction”. The Giant Cast Iron Fountain The resulting concept design was a grand cast iron fountain four stories high in the middle of an open urban carpet that welcomes hotel guests upon their arrival with a knot density of 100 cobbles per square meter and a rose-less Rose Garden. The Purpose of Such a Grand Scale The design, in an oversized way, was projected so that everybody could experience it in different ways — the clients of the hotel can look at it from the towers and the pedestrians can pass through the rose garden, where the swirl of petals defines pathways, past green shrub beds to the pixelated urban carpet and the big red fountain. The project involves spaces for every kind of user, changing the way people look at the neighborhood. “Within each project, we navigate webs of political, environmental, historical, social, and economic entanglements, seeking to extract a simple, clear idea that encapsulates it all,” the designers said. “Once this single concept is identified, we meticulously unfold it to guide all aspects of the project, from global organization to the finest construction detail. This results in complex, consistent environments that communicate loudly and clearly. We believe that a bold landscape image can brand a company, define the identity of a city, or simply entice passers-by to take a closer look,” they said. Enhancing the identity of the Four Seasons Hotel This project really defines the identity of the Four Seasons Hotel and its surroundings. The design is a clear interpretation of what’s going on around it, enlarging the primary elements of Toronto and making them accessible to pedestrians walking by and being part of the mixed environment. About the Design The designers found a way to represent traditional icons in a conceptual manner and play with every point of view. Even if it’s not a “big” area, they truly achieve a good reaction to it, whether it is unifying, emphasizing, or reconciling the contradiction of styles and scales within the city. They project an urban rug mixed with a traditional, red, cast iron fountain and a rose-less, rose-shaped garden. This is a space where stylistic elements from the 19th century are amplified to fit modern-day perceptions. Making Everybody Part of the Design Everyday details are amplified, so that either exclusive hotel guests or everyday pedestrians can be part of an elegant urban experience, elevating the prestige not only of the Four Seasons Hotel, but also of the urban territory, and combining elements to transform this “small” area into a city’s strong icon. If we want to simplify the concept, we can say that the urban carpet shows an open space with a fountain in the middle — a really simple way to describe it — but in reality, the designers have projected a strong concept with meticulous attention to detail. With all of the graphic pattern shown through the pavement, a four-story cast iron With all of the graphic pattern shown through the pavement, a four-story cast iron fountain and a shaped garden, the “stand out” elements are there, not only for people on the ground floor, but also for those who visit the building. This project shows how important details are and how having a strong concept will help us as designers to develop an idea easily. Would excellent landscape architecture influence your decision to stay in a hotel? Let us know in the comments below! >>Go to comments<<

Full Project Credits For The Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Landscape Design:

Project Name: The Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Landscape Design Landscape Architect: Claude Cormier + Associés Project Duration: 2006-2014 Location: Toronto (Ontario), Canada Client: Menkes Developments, Lifetime Developments Collaboration: Architects Alliance, Page + Steele / IBI Group Architects, NAK Design Area: 4 000 m2 (1 acre) Status: Built Awards: Toronto Urban Design Award Award of Merit – Small Open Spaces Category Azure Best Landscape Architecture Design – Finalist Canadian Society of Landscape Architects – Regional Honor – Design Category Learn more about Claude Cormier + Associés: Website: www.claudecormier.com Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Tahío Avila