Author: Land8: Landscape Architects Network

Article by Paula Uzarek. Atlantic Wharf Park, by Halvorson Design Partnership, Boston, Massachusetts. Designing a space in a district with historic roots can give a landscape architect a series of sleepless nights. How does one create a fresh, new space while protecting and preserving the past? Should the designer take the risk and move beyond scheme, or just create a safe project? Can these two ways of thinking be combined? Atlantic Wharf in Boston, designed by Halvorson Design Partnership, takes a fresh look at a historic site and presents a solution that both preserves and improves the space.

Atlantic Wharf Park

Connection is Vital Located in a lively Boston district, Atlantic Wharf faces the Fort Point Channel, named after a fort that dates back to America’s colonial epoch. The channel is surrounded by busy banks full of historical buildings, and sits less than half a mile from South Station, where buses, the subway and trains are only a few of the transportation options. Water taxi is also an option here. The public transportation reduces pollution through less car use, and encourages pedestrians to explore the area. The Harborwalk connects the wharf with other public spaces within the harbor and provides an outstanding walking route.

The Sustainable Union of the Old and the New The restoration of two historic buildings for Boston Properties was not the whole idea; that would have been too elementary. The waterfront was said to be resolved by drawing Boston’s life to the Harborwalk. The harmony of the design was also a major factor here. Halvorson Design was responsible for the Harborwalk, plaza, and extensive green roof design. With the historical location, the project ensures that public spaces add value to the area’s dynamism. The property also joins the waterfront with the Financial District. Historic facades with modern elements refresh the place. The modern, mixed-use building designed by CBT Architects has two parts: a 31-story glass tower and a lower waterfront building. The historic facades were fully restored and consolidated with the new design, with the use of materials from recycling. The Atlantic Wharf design includes about 42 percent of previously existing historical structures, which were restored and integrated. This allowed the designers to reduce the impact on both the environment and the historical site. Next, energy-saving solutions were added to minimize the use of artificial lighting and heating. Making it All-Attractive Through Elegant Detailing A large public plaza allows for many activities and public performances. The whole scene is soothing. Carefully chosen, both the frame and details of the space delineate the landscape. Shaped like a sailboat, the area reminds us of the Atlantic Wharf logo. The plane lawn seems to be the characteristic letter “A”. The planted trees, bushes, and other elements rise to the bottom of the “A”,dividing from the lawn through the use of a crossbar of wooden pergola. The Redesign of The Historical Boston Harborwalk The Atlantic Wharf also includes the redesign of the historical Boston Harborwalk’s crucial section. Both paths interfuse. The red paving of the Harborwalk encloses the park, while the events space is tiled in light gray. The colors of the wooden seats do not clash with the paving and are also suited to the harbor itself. Harmonious with the scheme of the pergola, the seats are incorporated with the greenery above. The restaurant in the background makes the perfect match. The wooden seats complement the ones facing the harbor, sculpted in light gray stone, and the outdoor part of the restaurant features modern basket armchairs. All of these elements combine into an exquisite minimalistic part of the whole design. See More Great Projects Going on in the Boston Area:

• Channel Center Park and Iron Street Park Bring Life into Boston
• Levinson Plaza Creates a Green Refuge in the City
• Top 10 Walkable Cities

Increasing Green Spaces with the Extensive Green Roof The green roof covers the eighth floor of the Graphic Arts & Tufts Building, one of the three low-rise mercantile buildings in the area, which was known as Russia Wharf before the restoration. The extensive green carpet is a forepart for a harbor view. It is almost 18,000 square feet and is used to minimize the heat escape in the energy-efficient building. In addition, plantings on the roof reduce storm water run-off. Water Retention System The water retention system is one of the factors reducing the costs of irrigation, due to rainwater use and the planting selection. The result is natural resources preservation through the water efficiency of the building and the vegetated green roof combined. The Green Roof System  The roof is a composition of modules that are pre-planted grids. The modules on the roof membrane are easy to access and therefore repair. The pattern is neat, minimalistic stripes of verdant grasses and herbaceous perennials along a checkered wooden boardwalk. The hardscape areas and paths are made of crushed stones. The plantings show diversity of color and size, including native vegetation that easily adapts to Boston’s climate. A sustainable High-rise Development Atlantic Wharf is also Boston’s first sustainable high-rise development to reuse materials. Apart from restoring the facades, a rain-harvesting system to catch storm water preserves natural resources. As green spaces are an essential part of our cities, the need to introduce more of them seems obvious. The Atlantic Wharf shows this in an elegant way. It is a great example of applying green spaces in troublesome areas, where any change can dominate the whole landscape. The design is strong, but simple in structure. Most of all, the historical buildings compliment each other and create an unforgettable atmosphere. What do you think of the Atlantic Wharf Park? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For The Rail Corridor:

Project Name: Atlantic Wharf Park Location: Boston, Massachusetts Landscape Architects: Halvorson Design Partnership Architects: CBT Architects Green Roof Budget: $18,000 Construction Budget: $3 million (Harborwalk + Green Roof) Date of Design: 2009-2010 Size: 2.2 acres (including 0.75-acre plaza), 18,000 SF green roof Client: Boston Properties Year of Construction: 2011 Photography Credit: Ed Wonsek Project Team: Landscape Architects: Halvorson Design Partnership, Inc. Architects: CBT Architects Marine Engineer: Childs Engineering Corporation Civil Engineer: VHB, Inc. Traffic Engineer: Howard Stein Hudson Associates Inc. Structural Engineer: McNamara Salvia, Inc. Client: Boston Properties AWARDS: 2011 Preservation Achievement Award, Boston Preservation Alliance; 2013 LEED Platinum Certified, US Green Building Council Learn more about Halvorson Design Partnership: Website: www.halvorsondesign.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/Halvorson-Design-Partnership-Inc 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 Paula Uzarek.

Article by Farah Afza. Rail Corridor, by Tierra Design and Japanese firm Nikken Sekkei, in Singapore. Designers create space to create different moods  for the users. It is the users’ experience which ultimately describes a space. The adjectives intriguing, dull, vibrant, serene, etc. are added only to describe a space based on the experiences of its users. A space however, well designed as it may be, will be functional and successful only when it can accommodate different sorts of activities. Therefore, accommodating various activities in a site is one of the toughest challenges faced by designers during design decisions and it should be of major concern when the design is for the urban environment. The introduction of well-thought-out activity nodes can definitely revive the urban connections, uniting the community of the designed area.

Rail Corridor Singapore

One such exemplary project is the Rail Corridor; an award-winning master plan proposal by Japanese firm Nikken Sekkei (Lead Landscape Architect & Lead Architect) with Tierra Design (Local Landscape Architect) in Singapore.

Competition Launch The competition was launched by Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) to re-create a master plan for the 24 km-long former railway that spans North-South of Singapore. The aim of the URA was to develop an inspiring and extraordinary community space and to create an urban oasis in the midst of the fast-growing intensities of urban living. The winning plan seems to be true to the goals. Did you know? You can see all the latest competition announcements when you sign up the LAN VIP club here! Lines of Life The concept of the winning team is ‘Lines of Life’. Different lines in the form of paths running along the length of the corridor were designed to create community-centric spaces and experiences adjacent to the corridor. In return, this will attract more users such as residents, workers, and visitors, literally bringing more life into the site. The design focuses on sustainable development to strengthen the old railroad’s identity and connectivity, and to preserve the heritage areas. Through design, landscape architects can create different experiences of spaces for users. This was done pretty sensitively on this project. Green respites were proposed to enhance areas along the length of the corridor to give the users the overall experience of a ‘green corridor’. Eight Points of Activity In addition, eight activity nodes were introduced at distinct areas of the corridor. Different activity nodes accommodate a variety of activities for the local community. While one node generates recreational facilities based on nature, others house arts and cultural events for its nearby residents and workers. Through these the community population can enjoy a wide range of activities. Now, let’s take a closer look at eight of these multidimensional nodes: 1. Queensway Viaduct This was proposed as the ‘Passage of Light’. One of the interesting features of this project is the use of interactive floor lighting. This will respond differently with the speed and movement of the users. For instance, it will light up differently when a cyclist or pedestrian is crossing. This play of light makes this space an intriguing one. There is also a suggestion of a firefly garden which blends with the light concept to create a playful combination of the installed artificial lights with those of the natural lights produced by fireflies. 2. Stagmont Ring To unite the residents of the Stagmont Ring, a community space was proposed. The community space is comprised of community farming plots, a children’s playground, barbecue lawns and fishing ponds to engage the community people in different sorts of interesting activities. 3. Former Bukit Timah Fire Station The railway corridor running adjacent to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve features a forest walkway and an observation tower to enjoy the panoramic views of nature. 4. Pie Viaduct The space was reimagined for fun activities with a community cave and rock climbing walls. 5. Buona Vista Since it is in the vicinity of the business park, this space demands to be vibrant. In order to achieve that, the proposition of accommodating outdoor film screening for the nearby workers and residents seems appropriate. 6. Heritage Brick Drain A heritage brick drain in Bukit Timah was conserved as part of a community space where visitors could learn about nature and biodiversity and celebrate their heritage. Separately, winning concept proposals were chosen for two specific areas along the Rail Corridor; the historic former Tanjong Pagar Railway Station, and an area at Choa Chu Kang by MKPL and Turenscape firms which will be merged with future residential developments. Other than these ideas, it included plans for 122 access points into the Rail Corridor and 21 “platforms” that would house amenities such as toilets and rest areas along the 24km stretch for its users. This winning proposal is still far from implementation as the authority (URA) has launched an exhibition to get feedback from the public and to involve the community in the design process. Overall, this winning proposal teaches us the importance of the activities of users in spaces and how the introduction of different activity nodes can invite and engage people, uniting community and strengthening the urban connections of the area.

Full Project Credits For The Rail Corridor:

Project Name: Rail Corridor Location: Singapore Size: 24km Awards: winner of the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s (URA) design competition for the future of the former KTM railway land Client: Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Designers: Nikken Sekkei with Tierra Design, in Singapore Learn more about Tierra Design: Website: www.tierradesign.com.sg Facebook: www.facebook.com/Tierra.POD 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 Farah Afza. Return to Homepage

Article by Irmak Bilir. Green Road, a peaceful park by REDscape Landscape & Urbanism, Province of Utrecht, the Netherlands. Nobody would deny that no matter the results of a battle, a military area can be depressing. One of the best ways to transform such a site is to turn it into a park. But not an ordinary park — a park that shares its history with its visitors. Green Road does exactly that, in a project designed by REDscape, led by landscape architect Patrick Mc Cabe.

A Breif History of Green Road

Green Road is a large military area in the Province of Utrecht, the Netherlands, which has housed a former defensive trench and bunker system since 1918. The area was a defender of the River Lek for invasion from the east, and it was built for this purpose. It has forts, works, and a wide of variety of bunkers. In the past, the area had become overgrown and part of trench system was removed, making access to the area difficult. This left the area a sad reminder of World Wars I and II.

Green Road by REDscape Landscape & Urbanism

Healing a landscape affected by war is not the same as with an ordinary site. It brings up its own feelings and memories, and it’s important to respect that. The design must show and teach the history in some way, while at the same time healing the negative connotations of the area.

What did REDscape propose for this discounted military area? Primarily, the relationship between military park and its surroundings was recreated. There are agricultural fields next to the military area, and the design is in harmony with them. Sections of the original trench system were partially restored and the bunkers unearthed. Sandbags were used for building coupures.

Allowing Visitors to Experience the Site’s Original Intention

The defensive works were reconstructed, allowing visitors to experience the site’s original intention, and the bunkers tell the story of its wartime past. All of these show us that Green Road respects the history of the military park and protects its significance. By preserving its military history, Green Road’s topography takes a shape different in style from its surroundings. It has a shifting surface, which is a plus point feature in the Netherlands, and the ponds embellish the site with their bridges.

Ecology and Nature at the Forefront of the Project

Green Road is also a regenerative place with its fauna and flora. Ecology and nature are in the forefront of the project. For diversity, four new ecological zones were created. Additionally, a local pomological volunteer group had maintained the unique fruit trees of the area, and they are used to camouflage the defensive works. Especially fruitful apple trees are very common in the area. See More Fascinating Projects in the Netherlands:

• Stirring Emotions at the Netherlands Army Museum and Netherlands Air Force Museum
• How Mathildeplein Creates a Green Oasis in the City
• Giant Sized Pergola Creates Ecological Haven

There are also some freshwater habitats for amphibians, tree cover for nesting owls, and open grassland areas for foraging birds. Bats inhabit some of the bunkers and colorful species of butterflies abound. In other words, the military park is remarkably animal-friendly.

Connecting the Park to Adjacent Forts

A tourist ferry will connect the park with the adjacent forts of Honswijk, Spoel, and Everdingen. One of the bunkers is to be excavated to become freestanding in water, with possible use as a single-bedroom hotel. It’s sure that the Green Road military park will be a new attraction for locals and tourists. The design not only protects the history of the area and showcases this heritage perfectly to visitors, but also has a remarkably nice development on ecology, flora, and fauna, as well as converting a sad memorial and discounted place into a peaceful park. With all these features, it is worth a visit to see history and nature at the same time. Are you planning to visit? What do you think about the design? Let us know in the comments below! Click Here to Comment

Full Project Credits For Green Road:

Project Name: Green Road Designers: REDscape Landscape & Urbanism Location: Province of Utrecht, the Netherlands Budget: 350k Date of Design: 2010 Date of Construction: 2015 Lead Landscape Architect: Patrick Mc Cabe Project Area: 10 ha Client: Staatsbosbeheer, Linieland Photographs: Andreas Mulder (REDscape) and Philip van Roosmalen (drone images) Learn more about REDscape Landscape & Urbanism: Website: www.redscape.nl Facebook: www.facebook.com/REDscape-Landscape-Urbanism LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-mc-cabe 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 Miriam Judith González Bolívar. UAE Pavilion by Foster+Parters and WATG in the Expo Milan 2015. Have you ever noticed the desert landscape? What do you think you can find there? Usually when we talk about it, what comes first to our minds is austerity, tons of sand, rocks, the horizon, and the infrequent lushness of an oasis? However, the desert still has his beauty. Dunes make the desert appear to be dancing and make it a dynamic landscape. And this is how Foster+Partners take the desert as an inspiration to create the concept and design for the Pavilion of the United Arab Emirates in “Expo Milan Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life 2015”. Transmitting the principles of ancient cities, the pavilion takes one of the principal urbanistic planning from Romans design: Decumanus.

Decumanus is a term used in urban planning which indicates East-West street orientation. It’s used as axial guidance, making the east side the main entrance. The magnificent 12m high wall is a simulation of dunes in the sandy desert. As dunes have a special shape created differently by the effects of wind, every panel has a unique design. At the same time, the surroundings evoke flora which are distributed in three zones: Sandy Dunes, Rocky Desert and Oasis.

Sandy Dunes

The sandy dunes are the path the visitors have to cross to see the pavilion. With a stretched and shaded corridor that simulates pedestrian streets and at the same time works as a queue, visitors get a clue of how the city looks and how life is experienced in the UAE. After crossing the paths, heading north, the round auditorium takes its place in the scenery. At 15 m high, its lining is made of copper alloy panels joined to each other at a 45° angle, covering the entire façade and continuing to the inside. Something that amazes the viewer is that the reflection of the sunlight makes patterns on the ground, feigning the sand in the desert. This only can be seen from the inside.

The idea of building the pavilion with ancient techniques was a very important key for the design. Berms were created to imitate the landscape of UAE. This construction was based on rammed earth techniques. Rowland Keable, expert on rammed earth techniques, was an important consultant to the development of the berms. Building with rammed earth involves a damp mix of soils, mostly clay and sand. However, building that way would have taken much more time than planned. The solution to the problem was mixing clays and conglomerates rammed in layers to form a solid appearance, looking very similar to natural. It has an interesting and interactive effect on the visitor. The pathways were constructed using crushed limestone to replicate the texture of the sand in the desert, and makes the sand adhere to the panel and have an integration between these. Both were constructed out of artificial agents or additives, which contributed to the sustainable design of the project.

Rocky Desert

Located in the rear side of the pavilion, this part evokes the mountain landscape of the EAU. Unfortunately, time and budget didn’t allow representation of the environment in this area. However, the plantation of shrubs and palms suggests the flora of the country successfully. Plants were carefully selected to survive as long as the pavilion was exhibited. More berms were also constructed on this rear side, to enclose the planting zone.

Oasis

After passing through these areas, at the end of the tour, finally people get to the Oasis. The oasis was one of the first areas to be created. Located on the northeast of the building, the concept was based in the oasis in Al Ain. It took a special selection of trees and shrubs of different sizes to evoke a similar impression and to represent the sizes of palms there.

It had to be a perfect combination to look as natural as possible, and of course, one important congruency at the moment of choosing was the scale. Palms (Phoenix canariensis), which are an iconic plant in deserts, create a canopy cover which shades medium sizes plants like olive (Olea europea), orange tree (Citrus × sinensis), and fruit trees, that at the very same time provide shade to yet other species which in turn allow the growth of plants on the ground. The creation of micro-climate though the plants provided an easy growing environment for crops, which were in this case represented by flax (Linum usitatissimum).

How Sustainability Plays an Important Role in the Design of the Pavilion

The pavilion was built under LEED principles using active and passive techniques as much as possible. Since the building satisfies green building necessities, it stands a good chance to garner platinum certification for its environmental performance. The building can be (and will be) dismantled from Milan and assembled in Masdar (a sustainable city in UAE) where it will be exhibited; all this can be possible thanks to materials used like the GRC (Glassfibre Reinforced Concrete) that makes an easy join between the panels, so they are reusable; zero-emission or electrical transportation from UAE to Milan and vice versa.

Use of recycled and recyclable materials, chosen for their quality and durability; rainwater collection from the roof garden and sunlight harvesting through photovoltaic panels; water management, only using potable water for potable purposes, saving more than 40% of water use; a green roof to produce their own food. At the same time, decreasing the heat inside the building; indoor and outdoor environmental quality, reducing light pollution and increasing natural daylight through the proper orientation, creating a comfortable spot for visitors and people who work in the pavilion; waste management based on anaerobic digester; and an emphasis on regional priority, in supporting the local economy. Certainly, the pavilion exposes the reality and challenges that face cities built in the deserts, living, designing, where vegetation or water is lacking and where dealing with extreme temperatures is a daily requirement. Anyway, who would ever think that desert could be so beautiful as to inspire this incomparable pavilion? Note for architects!! Sometimes from unexpected places or things, we can design an incredible project. So, would you take the desert landscape as a design inspiration? Let us know in the comments section below! Click Here to Comment

Full Project Credits For The UAE Pavilion

Project: UAE Pavilion Architect: Foster+Parters Landscape Architect: WATG Location: Expo Milan 2015 Area: 4,386 m² Date of construction: 2013-2015 Client: National Media Council Local Architect: Marco Visconti Visitor Experience Design: Land Design Studio Engineering, procurement & construction management: Rimond Rammed Earth Specialist: Rammed Earth Consulting, Rowland Keable Quantity Survey: Fraser Randall Management: A&A Company Plant supplier + installer: Tor San Lorenzo + Iperverde Ground contractor: Rimogreen Learn more about WATG: Website: www.watg.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/WATGdesign Twitter: www.twitter.com/WATG Google plus: www.plus.google.com Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/watg LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/company/watg YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/WATGChannel Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/watg/ 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 Miriam Judith González Bolívar Return to Homepage

Article by Alexandra Wilmet PXATHENS by Buerger Katsota Architects, in Athens, Greece. In the education of a child, the discovery and exploration of nature and the environment are key elements to developing creative capacity and imagination. It is essential that our children can enjoy diverse play areas where they can draw inspiration, develop their team spirit, and socialize with the outside world. Unfortunately, playgrounds are often similar to each other. They rarely fit into their environment and are sometimes dilapidated. It is with the aim to remedy this lack of character that the project PXATHENS is taking place in the Greek capital; to offer young and old creative playgrounds, safe and accessible to all.

One Project, Seven Principles

The idea to re-integrate the game into the streets of the city comes from an initiative of the organization “Paradeigmatos Harin” that has developed, in collaboration with the municipality of Athens, the PXATHENS project. This project involves six degraded and abandoned spaces in downtown areas. The office in charge of the restoration of these spaces defines a development strategy based on seven principles:

• Projection of references
• Places for all ages
• Catering to multi-dimensional play
• Identification of character holding the ground
• Negotiation of borders
• Folding the ground
• Negotiation of borders
• The Creation of a network

The last of these is an interesting element because it allows links between different sets of spaces to create the harmonious development of these spaces within the city. Young and old like to explore the related areas which are scattered throughout the city. Other aspects of the project are not any less important. Providing zones with multidimensional activities allows children to discover the space and operation of various games. A Space For All Ages Another highlight is the significant principle that the project is for all ages! Even if children are the majority of users of playgrounds, it is important that adults are not neglected because there is no age at which the development of the imagination stops. Perhaps you seen people practicing parkour or enjoying a street workout? These two new disciplines were born from the apprehension of space by using it in innovative ways.

Getting Fit in Urban Space

On the one hand, parkour is a physical activity that involves moving freely in space and especially where there is no set path. Urban objects are transformed into obstacles that must be overcome smoothly. Parkour participants develop a large capacity for running, jumping, climbing and balance. On the other hand, the street workout is using street furniture to build muscles. And although in some places the infrastructure is dedicated to the sport, it can also be done anywhere with the usual furniture such as benches, lampposts, etc.

Six Identities in the City

But back on topic; the PXATHENS project is defined at six sites and there was never a question of drawing the same playgrounds in each place. Indeed, one of the seven principles is to give a distinct identity to each of the reallocated areas. The team in charge of the project identified a specific characteristic to each area which would become the predominant criterion for its unique identity and to serve as a reference. The presence of six properties; a church on the hill, a parcel at the corner of an urban block, an intersection, an inner courtyard whose entrance is hidden, an area of dense vegetation, and a location which refers to an ancient grove permitted these spaces to be named, respectively; Six Thresholds, Hill’s Plateaus, A Lot, Three Corners, Secret Garden and Forest Square.

Freedom of Expression

When we discover the place, we first notice the intriguing furniture. Indeed, the elements constructed for the project come in various colors and shapes; sometimes strange. The benches are circular shapes in concrete. They allow users to rest in the shade of the trees that encircle the space, but also represent an opportunity for sharing and creating social ties.

Other more abstract elements awaken your mind and imagination; it’s up to you to decide how to use them. Whether to climb on, to balance, jump, play hide-and-seek or just sit, this furniture leaves you free in your choices. This project calls into question the use of standard playgrounds but also the use of public space in general. Indeed, without transforming the city into a giant playground, this project helps to inspire people to explore the city, to go to experience various sensations through these six areas. Most importantly, the project allows us to rethink the space in the more playful and creative way in which children learn to observe, communicate and develop their physical and mental abilities. Young and old can now enjoy the public space and appreciate it fully! What do you think of this method of design? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For PXATHENS

Project Name: PXATHENS  Architects: Buerger Katsota Architects Design Team: Stephan Buerger, Demetra Katsota, Stephanos Conidaris, Flavian Lekkas, Francisco Serodio, Mladen Stamenic Client: City of Athens Project Initiator: Paradeigmatos Harin First phase donor: Stavros Niarchos Foundation Design Date: 2011-2012 Construction Date: Spring 2013 [1st phase] Photos: © Yiorgis Yerolymbos Location: Athens, Greece Surface Area: 840 sqm Year: 2013 Learn more about Buerger Katsota Architects: Website: www.buerger-katsota.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 Alexandra Wilmet Return to Homepage

Article by Sophie Thiel We take a closer look at landscape architecture in Europe that also makes for great tourist destinations.  We all know Hyde Park in London or Place de la République in Paris, but there are so many other landscape architecture projects worth visiting in Europe. The aim of this article was not to create a compilation of the 10 best-known tourist destinations in Europe, but to surprise you with relatively unknown landscape architecture projects to visit during your next trip. This list expands upon a previous article by Michelle Biggs: 4 incredible Tourism Projects of Landscape Architecture. Our new list features 10 must-see landscape architecture projects in Europe. Future articles will share projects from every other continent. So please enjoy reading and start planning where you would like to go first:

10. Park of Monsters – Bomarzo, Italy, by Vicino (Pier Francesco) Orsini, Pirro Ligorio & Simone Moschino Italian landscape architecture offers more than just some Renaissance parks. The Park of Monsters was built after the death of Vicino Orsini’s wife, Gulia Farnese, and was dedicated to the great love between the couple. However, this is not a romantic park full of roses to underline Orsini’s heartache. And it isn’t a garden designed to please; rather, it is meant to astonish. This Italian garden is populated by 17 different sculptures (the monsters) and two monuments, nestled among natural vegetation. It was created in the 16th century, a time in which alchemy, astrology, and magic attracted the minds of intellectuals such as Orsini, and mirrors that theme in every dramatic expression of the sculptures, making this place magical in its entirety. 9. Zorlu Center – Istanbul, Turkey, by DS Architecture, Carve & WATG In this city between two continents, Zorlu Center unites private and semi-public gardens, facades, and residential terraces with a complex green roof in order to create a modern location. On the playground that belongs to the building complex, children enjoy the different opportunities for adventure and play offered throughout the park. It’s a playground where imagination comes to play. Do you want to know more about Zorlu Center and its playground? These two articles by Ruth Coman and Alexandra Antipa are packed with loads of information about this project:

• How Landscape Design Became the Most Important Feature of Zorlu Center
• Zorlu Center, The Playground Where Imagination Comes to Play

8. Dania Park — Malmö, Sweden, by Thorbjörn Andersson and Sweco Architects Dania Park is one of two seaside parks at the Western Harbour (Västra Hamnen), and therefore a part of the modern neighborhood of Malmö. Given this park’s poetic play with the sea, the wind, and the sky, it’s no surprise that this vast landscape is a favorite destination for residents and tourists throughout the year. At the various viewing points of Dania Park, people take a break from everyday life, unwind, and enjoy the spectacular sunsets in summer or the rough sea and troubled sky in winter.

The Western Harbour – including Dania Park — is listed as the Number 1 tourist attraction on “Malmotown”, the official visitor’s site of Malmö. Dania Park is also suggested as the top seaside park of Malmö on “Visit Sweden”, the country’s official website for tourism and travel information. 7. Mariahilfer Strasse – Vienna, Austria, by Bureau B+B & Orso.Pitro When visiting Vienna as a tourist, you will definitely go for a stroll on Mariahilfer Strasse. This street is not only the longest shared space in Europe since reconstruction ended in summer 2015, but also provides a vibrant atmosphere to all of its pedestrian visitors. With all of the colorful impressions, it seems easy to get lost in time on this urban axis. But time doesn’t matter, since you can spend all day on Mariahilfer Strasse, eating breakfast or brunch at one of the innumerable cafés, going shopping for hours and hours, watching a movie or a play, visiting museums, having dinner, and going to some bars or clubs – all on one street. This urban project was also featured in our Top 10 Landscape Architecture Projects of 2015 by Erin Tharp. 6. C-Mine – Genk, Belgium, by HOSPER & Atelier Ruimteliijk Advies A former coal mine turned into a buzzing cultural hub? Yes, it is, and that is what makes the city of Genk a must-see destination for unconventional travelers. If you’ve been there once, you will share the emotional value of the mine site with the Genk community.] Be part of the C-mine expedition that consists of adventurous activities through the routes formerly used by hard-working miners. Or buy a ticket to one of many events taking place at this special spot on earth. The C-Mine square is also listed in the Top 3 sights of Genk on Tripadvisor, so go there before everyone else does. Read about the whole success story of C-mine in these two articles by Tania Ramos Gianone and Caitlin Lockhart:

• Transforming a Coal Mining Site into a Cultural Hub
• Top 10 Ex-Industrial Sites Turned Into Stunning Landscapes

5. Vinterbad Brygge – Copenhagen, Denmark, by BIG Share the special bathing tradition with the Scandinavians at Vinterbad Brygge in Copenhagen. The harbor baths are a landmark for both residents and the city’s visitors. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Copenhagen skyline while swimming, or appreciate the ceramic mosaics with humorous motifs while sweating in the sauna. Thermal bathing is an essential part of northern cultures and shouldn’t be missed when visiting Scandinavia, especially not at Vinterbad Brygge.

4. Cardada Viewpoint – Cardada, Switzerland, by Paolo L. Bürgi Go from sea level to the top of the mountains with this awesome project in Cardada. The project consists of a concrete platform suspended in mid-air that displays a 180-degree window on the unforgettable views of Lake Maggiore. The Cardada viewpoint is a fantastic example of how to integrate a functional project into such a particular landscape as the Alps. This project was already featured in our article 5 Incredible Displays of Landscape Architecture in Switzerland, written by Maura Caturano. 3. Velenje City Center Pedestrian Zone Promenada — Velenje, Slovenia, by ENOTA Nobody would expect great landscape architecture in the 35,000-inhabitant city of Velenje, located in the picturesque northeast of Slovenia. This makes a walk through the garden city all the more surprising for passing tourists. Since 2014, Velenje has a new Promenada in its city center, which functions as a vital city axis. The protagonist of this modern architectural play is the reclaimed River Paka, which now flows through the new amphitheater and becomes the center of activity in this city. It’s a beautiful restored-river story that has multiple similarities with the famous Cheonggyecheon River Project in South Korea, and is definitely worth visiting. 2. Ika Meditation Spot — Csernaton, Romania, by Batlab Architects and Studio Nomad Ika Meditation Spot in Csernaton is one of the most unconventional tourism landscape architecture projects of the past year. In the end, the whole project is composed of a simple wooden platform in the middle of the woods. However, this minimalistic design is what captivates its visitors. There are no unnecessary distractions; it is just you sitting on the blue-painted platform viewing the surrounding nature. I dare to say Ika Meditation spot is one of the few unique projects existing on this planet, and totally worth a visit. 1. The Infinite Bridge – Aarhus, Denmark, by Gjøde & Povlsgaard Arkitekter “The Infinite Bridge in Denmark is incredible,” the Europe Tourism Board posted on its Facebook page on July 15, 2015. And they were right. Even if Aarhus is a rather unknown travel destination, this town offers remarkable beauty and unexpected landscape architecture to its visitors. The Infinite Bridge was created to provide an endless panoramic composition of the city and Aarhus bay. The bridge consists of a walkable wooden loop that stretches from land to sea. This project was realized as part of the biennial “Sculpture by the Sea” festival held in Aarhus – another thrilling spectacle to see in this region in early summer. The next exhibition will be held in 2017 under a different name — don’t miss visiting Aarhus and its Infinite Bridge then! Everybody can visit the most-hyped countries and cities of Europe. Why not break through the conventional stream of tourists and take a day or two to visit some unconventional landscape architecture projects on this beautiful continent full of diversity? Which one of the suggested projects do you want to visit first? Article by Sophie Thiel

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Article by Tahío Avila Aalborg Waterfront Phase II by C.F. Møller in Aalborg, Denmark. Aalborg is one of the most highly populated cities in Denmark. And despite the university city’s industrial heritage, Aalborg is concentrating on building a “cozy cosmopolitan atmosphere” along its waterfront, which recently has been transformed into a cultural quarter, with new university buildings, student housing, and a striking concrete music hall.

Aalborg Waterfront Phase II

The first phase of the project, begun in 2004 and completed in 2013, is a one-kilometer stretch of tree-lined, detailed boulevard for cyclists and pedestrians. It includes promenades with steps, recessed terraces, and urban gardens that facilitate activities such as markets, ball games, and sunbathing, while at the same time allowing people to get close to the water in a new harbor bath. The main idea was to create attractive spaces to benefit many different users and to let the Aalborg Castle become the harbor’s centerpiece, with a big green area and details to frame the historic embankments.

The Second Phase

The second phase follows the same basic approach, with the promenade as a unifying element; in two years of construction (from 2013 to 2015), the designers have managed to link the city’s medieval center with the fjord and turn it into an attractive front for all types of users.

New variations of spaces have been added, centered on the Utzon Center, a cultural center; the Aalborg house of Music (or Musikkens Hus), designed by the Austrian international design firm Coop Himmelblau; and the Nordkraft power plant, which was also renovated and functions as the primary cultural venue in Aalborg. It is considered one of the most impressive houses of culture in Europe, according to the official tourism site of Aalborg.

The Concept

The central idea of the second phase is the continuation of the waterfront promenade as a “marsh” or fusing component, in combination with a light, curving platform or plinth, upon which the buildings are located, as in a raised dune landscape.

It also draws inspiration from the meeting between the “dunes” and the flat foreshore. The plinth forms a raised base, which, again, unifies the area’s distinctive, freestanding buildings, including university buildings, student housing, and the concert hall. In this composition, the square around the House of Music is highlighted by an independent rectangular plinth. The urban plinth provides flood protection; the designers formed a series of carved incisions into it to create a series of spaces with diverse functions. The whole complex is protected from the wind by the plinths sites, designed as seating steps. The designers integrated spacious plazas and large green areas into the promenade sequence, creating lush green spaces with dense vegetation. The planting consists of trees, shrubs, and grasses that are native to the North Jutland fjord landscape.

The Master Plan

The master plan for Aalborg Waterfront links the city’s medieval town center with the adjacent fjord, which was previously difficult for citizens to access due to the industrial harbor and the associated heavy traffic. By tying in with the openings in the urban fabric, a new relationship between city and fjord is created, and what was formerly a back-side is turned into a new, highly attractive front.

The designers wanted to create a beach boulevard in the approximately one-kilometer-long stretch of the port and be able to satisfy some of the possible needs of the users. The design of the boardwalk was also a strong point of the design: The staircases, submerged terraces, and harbor bath allow users to be in direct contact with the water.

Materials

In contrast with the high-quality materials used in the plinth around the House of Music, the other surfaces used in the area are raw and simple: asphalt, steel, in situ-cast concrete, and wood were the materials used, just as in the first stage of Aalborg Waterfront.

Pavement textures and patterns are all around the waterfront. Some patterns were made with different plants, such as grasses, forming little spots that highlight resting areas or even a single tree. The waterfront design also includes orchards, with small seating areas to enjoy the view. In conclusion, this is a unique and very complete waterfront, designed and well thought out for pedestrians and especially for the cultural interest, not only for city the inhabitants but for the tourists, too. The need to focus on natural and cultural areas is rising every day, and this is a great project that combines both of them very well. What do you think of Aalborg Waterfront Phase II? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For Aalborg Waterfront Phase II

Project Name: Aalborg Waterfront Phase II Architects: C.F. Møller Location: Aalborg, Denmark Client: Aalborg Municipality Landscape Design: C.F. Møller Engineer: COWI Lighting Design: ÅF Hansen & Henneberg Area: 170,000 sqm Year of Competition: 2012 Construction Period: 2013-2015 Prizes: 1st prize in architectural competition, 2012 Photographs: Joergen True Get Social with C.F. Moller: Website: www.cfmoller.com YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/cfmoller/videos 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

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Book review by Yuliya Georgieva A book review of Water Urbanisms East by Kelly Shannon and Bruno de Meulder. In this era of the internet and instant sharing of information, reading books might sometimes seem old-fashioned. Some think that by the time books are written, edited, published, and distributed to the readership, they are already old. Yes, books get old, but they represent compilations of carefully selected, and in the case of landscape architecture, specialized information brought to us by experts that would take us ages to compile alone. Such is the case with Water Urbanisms East. This book represents a terrific compilation of diverse scale case studies on water-based practices in Asia, studying cities and landscapes from the past to today.

It revisits the practices of urban and landscape planning through the lenses of the effects of urbanization and climate change on the water regimes of rivers and cities, examining its consequences such as droughts and floods in the particularity of each case. By doing so, it doesn’t seek for a best practice to recommend but rather highlights the necessity of understanding local water regimes, topography, climate, and the environment in order to find better ways to design, integrating engineering with environmental approaches.

Whom is Water Urbanisms East For?

Whether you are a very experienced professional or just starting out in the field, this book will bring a completely new perspective on the interplay of landscapes, water, and cities. Water Urbanisms East is for anyone looking to re-discover, from a critical point of view, landscape and urbanism experiences through the spectrum of water as a structuring element, as well as for those just looking for ideas and inspiration from a foreign context.

The book is part of the UFO Explorations of Urbanism series from Park Books Zurich and was co-edited by Kelly Shannon and Bruno de Meulder. They are authors or co-authors of a significant part of the text but what is great about this book is that it’s a collection of contributions from many experts on the cases presented. The editors are also authors or co-authors of a number of texts about projects in Vietnam, as they worked together on the master plans of Can Tho and Ca Mao in the south of Vietnam. Organized into three parts; “Contemporary Positions”, “Practices Revisited”, and “Explorations and Speculations”. The book’s structure leaves you free to choose where to start reading. Each part consists of a variety of cases, each with its specific theme on the role of water so you can dive into exploring the perspectives of the different authors in any order you prefer. Pick up your copy of HERE! “Contemporary Positions” starts with an exploration across scales of China, Thailand, Indonesia, and a vivid contrast between practices in North and South Vietnam. Each of these contributions carefully explores the impact of urbanization on water management – and more precisely, the destructive impact of engineering-centered approaches to dealing with water management on the environment. They bring up the issues of polluted water courses, destroyed biodiversity, and compromised quality of environments and natural landscapes due to industrialization. What makes this chapter special, though, is that along with the terrible consequences of industrialization, carefully selected non-typical examples are included to portray the need for rethinking the urbanism we implement. The example of the recovery of watercourses such as the Sanhile River by Turenscape brings hope that the battle isn’t lost. That project didn’t just recover the natural landscape and biodiversity of the river by destroying the concrete channel but is now part of an integrated water management system which also serves to mitigate floods. “Practices Revisited” is my favorite chapter – it not only explains the role of water in the landscape from its scarcity or its abundance but also how those circumstances created the need for better water management and how whole cultures were based on those water practices. A terrific example of water management and sustainable biodiversity maintenance and protection is described in the case of Subak in Bali, Indonesia, where contemporary optimization of rice production is based on a careful water management model developed in the past. Pick up your copy HERE! These practices have created a complex natural cycle of water, crops, and biodiversity which is “the oldest known biodiverse agrarian system in existence”, which is now threatened by the millions of tourists visiting it, despite its status as a UNESCO world heritage site. Pick up your copy HERE! The final chapter, “Explorations and Speculations”, focuses on the design aspect of hydrologic urbanisms. A research-based design is presented as a tool to generate new approaches to integrating water, nature, and urbanized areas into a single system. With its array of short contributions, this chapter allows the exchange of ideas and solutions specifically designed for a particular context while at the same time going after the same concept as the rest of the book – looking for a new paradigm of living and designing for integrated water urbanity. Each case study is richly illustrated with maps, sections, diagrams, and images so you can dive into exploring the complexity of water systems from the scale of the plumbing circulation of an apartment building up to the multiform structure of a river delta like the Mekong. Each case study has something to offer whether you are a planning professional or simply curious to understand the various relationships of Asian populations to water and how they evolved, historically. From China through Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Japan, Iran, and Taiwan, you will be surprised at the diversity of water management practices that have existed and developed over time. In the context of the global climate change discussion, this book will bring you insight into the importance of integrated water practices interplayed with urban planning, governmental policies, and design, explored over a variety of scales. This rich dictionary of ideas and practices left me inspired and willing to seek to reintegrate these water practices in a new search for strategies for climate adaptation and design. It is without a doubt a “must-have” in your library! If you love this book, check out these other book reviews:

• Landscape and Urban Design for Health and Well-Being
• Digital Drawing for Landscape Architecture
• 10 Books to Read in Your Fourth Year of Landscape Architecture

Pick up your copy of Water Urbanisms East today!

Book review by Yuliya Georgieva Return to Homepage

Article by Paula Uzarek Rike Park, by CMD Ingenieros, Tbilisi, Georgia. Is there a recipe to join two different districts, a historical and a modern one? A recently opened area, one of the most modern parks in Georgia, gives the answer to these questions and enlists the essential elements of a public park. The first ingredient of every urban space is location. Placement of Rike Park in proximity of Tbilisi Old Town is undoubtedly opportune. The office of the Presidential administration and ancient Narikala Fortress situated at the opposite side, overlook the whole scene.

Rike Park

What about the access? There are at least three ways. The most common one is to cross the Peace Bridge. The modern construction joins the eastern and the western banks of Mtkvari River. There is also another way to get to the park, descending the stairs from Alvabari district that adjoins the Old Tbilisi. Third, the aerial tramway, takes tourists right from the bank of the river to the feet of Narikala Fortress.

An Abstract Reference to Georgia’s Map Paths create an individualistic web of this public recreational area design. The colour of the paving is minimalistic gray. The pattern is said to be an abstract reference to Georgia’s map, where different functions concerning various activities are assigned to geographical regions. Playground and picnic areas with gigantic chess board and nest swings are completed by sport activities zone, a public square, and meetings and stroll tracts. An information centre is also included. Context And Identity The rose pattern in the heart of the park is a symbolic reference to the Rose Revolution and also refers to the plan of geography, which is the next emphasis of Georgian identity. It is made of concrete in light red colour with green elements connecting with its centre, just like stem and leaves. Park users can also sit on an edge of the rose. The plants used in the landscaped garden project are promoting native ones, well known across Georgia. Now our park has a context. The Huge Grand Piano All elements of equipment sculpt the space and make the difference. The alleys bend, leading from one sculpture to another. A white huge grand piano is one of the most unexpected ones. Cuboid Benches Street furniture comes in various forms of ergonomically shaped seats, from popular simple cuboid benches with wooden curves to ones shaped like white rotund paper ships. The choreographed musical fountain is a delight, especially at night, when its show is performed and is an example of water feature. People gather there after dark approaches to admire the performance of harnessed element. Architectural Constructions The area of the park is where the “New Tbilisi” begins. That is visible in newly built designs nearby and inside the Rike Park. The Peace Bridge is a pedestrian architectural gem of Italian architect Michelle de Lucchi, and with French designer Philippe Martinaud’s lighting design which opened in May 2010 and the office of Presidential administration (also designed by de Lucchi), the scenery is complete from above. Musical Theatre and Exhibition Hall is another design located right inside the park, at its western end. It was designed by Italian architect Massimiliano Fuksas and is still under construction. The greenery surrounds this marvelous building which is shaped softly into two eye-catching elements, metal tubes, one functioning as the Musical Theatre and the second one as the Exhibition Hall. The Musical Theatre Hall is the northern part of the building with an entrance at street level. On the contrary, the Exhibition Hall allows having a view to the panorama of the city, especially the historic district. Interaction With Users’ Senses The glass and steel bridge canopy of the Peace Bridge undulates like a body of a marine creature captured in a net, revived with white interactive LED lights. When crossing the bridge after dark, our eyes and feet are in a perpetual interaction. This extremely attractive light show is a concept influencing many senses just like the choreographed musical fountain. The unforgettable atmosphere of this modern park in Georgia leaves the feeling of enjoyment and relaxation. This is the reason why both tourists and the locals choose to come here during the daytime, sunset and at night. The rules governing public space creation are not complex and hard to respect. Successful park design is simply the people magnet. The satisfied users are the key element binding all project components together and the main factor a designer should recognize. To achieve this goal we can follow an easy formula: find an accessible location and set various park functions. Next, put in its context where users can identify their own values, e.g. national values. Neaten the space with essential equipment to allow users to get some rest and entertainment. Add bigger or smaller architectural constructions to make the space more visible from a distance. And, above all, make the project interact with the users by their senses. With all these factors a park is not only a usable and practical space but also is a joy for the eyes. All these elements are seen in Tbilisi Rike Park. Do you recognize them in your favourite park design? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For Rike Park

Project Name: Rike Park Location: Tbilisi, Georgia Project Address: GE-1000 Tbilisi Landscape Architects: CMD Ingenieros, Valencia, Spain Budget: 2,400,000 Euro Date of Design: 2010 Date of Construction: 2011 Client: Old City Rehabilitation & Development Fund Get Social with CMD Ingenieros: Website: www.cmdingenieros.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/cmdingenieros YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/cmdingenieros/videos Twitter: www.twitter.com/cmdingenieros LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/company/cmd-ingenieros 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 Paula Uzarek Return to Homepage

Article by Paula Uzarek Water Playground, by RS+, in Tychy, Poland. Playgrounds are a topic inseparable from landscape design. How do landscape architects create them? It is important to include colors, shapes, fun and safety in a form adjusted to the space that designer has at their disposal. Yet motives and themes echoed over and over again are imprinted in our minds, making the existence of innovative designing processes almost impossible. When correlating minimalism and the quiet harmony of nature with a colorful, energetic playground, the task seems to be unrealistic. Fortunately, landscape architects move beyond the typical schemes. The water Playground in Tychy is an excellent example of inspiring and intelligent play area design and the first such project in Poland.

Tychy, Water Playground

It is good to understand the larger setting before seeing the water playground area itself. A scenic reservoir of Paprocańskie Lake, situated in the purlieus of forest at the south-west of Tychy, this area has been a top place of recreation for many years. After modernization of the site was conducted recently, it gained even more popularity. The new elements that catch a visitor’s attention at the lake are parkways and a huge pier that has two possible points of entry. Gentle strolls are possible right next to bike rides.

The Site in Context

Starting with a traditional playground, the first area there has many recesses, steps, climbing nets, two open slides and one tube slide. Ropes are used in another part. A second area contains a hidden cafe. One might think that this amount of recreation facilities would be enough. But is it really? Is there anything more a designer can do here? Evidently yes. The main attraction is the colorful water playground incorporated into the landscape. Especially on hot days, it entices children and their parents with the use of multiple colorful fountains which stimulate the imagination.

The Water Playground and How it Fits Into The Greater Scheme

The water playground itself was opened on a portion of the Paprocany resort in Tychy. In 2010, Robert Skitek, with his architectural studio’s design team RS+, created the design of shallow basins and fountains destined to delight many adults and children alike. The space for kids is over 300 square meters and its shape, especially the water part, is harmoniously adjusted to the surroundings of trees growing in the park.

While locating a design in more natural areas, the newest landscape architecture trends tell us to make a design as sensitive to the existing conditions as possible. This is exactly what RS+ has done. The basins meander around the existing topography, integrating the artificial water sources with nature. It is like a message to children’s subconscious that the greenery is an important part of life. Maybe they will not spot the idea right off the bat, but the aesthetics will definitely in some way influence their future perceptions. Having fun in a natural and friendly environment is far more pleasurable than in a concrete jungle. Of course sometimes landscape architects have no choice because of the playground’s location, but here the potential of the site is fully employed. Can this be even greener? Technical rooms, necessary for water management, are hidden in the north under ground level and are invisible to uninitiated viewers. In the east, beside the playground, a bike square; an invitation for all cyclists, touches the park alley. Now the users can do less harm to the environment by leaving their cars at home. The playground’s plan reminds one of a picture of paramecium, the water organism. The inspiration of science is evident. After biology, the design culls from mathematics. As the designer says; “to gain clarity of the project, the elements of the fencing are a wooden construction made up of a parametric structure based on two sinusoids dislocated against each other”. The form is neat and minimalistic. Moreover, the fence functions well, being at the same time a very characteristic part of this playground. The 50% open fencing design does not disturb the visual reception of the project but serves at the same time as a protection against animals and humans. The material used here is wood which is also applied in the design of bench around the basin. Care and observation of children can be taken from a small distance, on comfortable seating right next to the entry. The Safety of Children is Most Important The place is then safe, even for the youngest, due to the blue non-slip surface covering the ground around the basins. The pattern is meant to connote, with modern variation, circles in the water. This is another nature-inspired motive. Water fountains were chosen according to their impact; this is another accent of the deep design consideration process. The fountains toss the water in different manners.

Dividing the Park By Age Group

For the youngest children, water is splashed from fountains with small strength. Older users in the second part have to work with fountains which spray a little bit harder. Children enjoy wading and paddling inside basins running around the blooming water features. To replenish the water playground design, at night it becomes a fantastic fountain illuminated with highly-colored LED lights.

The end result is a motley yet readable playground where contact with nature is easy to access.  Its location in the neighborhood of the lake makes it even more hospitable for children who desire creative recreation in a harmonious area. This project of RS+ is a great example of combining creative process and safety and other standards whilst basing an innovative design on wide range of inspirations. What do you think of this water playground? Let us know in the comments section below!  Go to comments

Full Project Credits For The Water Playground, by RS+

Project Name: Water Playground Location: Tychy, Poland Cooperation: stud.WAPŚl Jakub Zygmunt, stud.WAPŚl Szymon Borczyk Technology: Arras Date of Design: 2010 Date of Construction: 2011 Architect: RS+ Robert Skitek Investor: Tychy Town Council Project Team: Robert Skitek, Jakub Zygmunt, Szymon Borczyk Water engineering: Maciej Papiurek, Krzysztof Wacek, Anna Terentjew Completion: 2011 Project area: 354 sqm Photographs: Tomasz Zakrzewski www.archifolio.pl Get Social with RS+: Website: www.rsplus.pl Facebook: www.facebook.com/RS-Robert-Skitek 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 Paula Uzarek Return to Homepage

Article by Taylor Stapleton We take a look at 5 Reasons Why Planting Fruit Trees Along Sidewalks is a Terrible Idea. Landscape architecture has often been touted as a profession that can solve urban problems, but sometimes we get a little ahead of ourselves. Recently going viral is the idea to replace street trees in our cities with fruit trees, providing food for the homeless during the summer and fall. While a nice thought in theory, this would actually be a terrible idea, and here is why:

1. Will enough fruit even get picked? It is very likely that a majority of the fruit would go unpicked. What isn’t picked would spoil and fall to the sidewalk below, creating a mess that would stink and attract insects such as wasps. The sidewalks would become slippery, creating a health and safety issue. 2. Would the government support it? The government just wouldn’t do it. With the health and safety issue of slippery sidewalks, there is a strong possibility of the city being sued if people were to trip and hurt themselves. There is also a large cost associated with fruit trees. The mess would need to be cleaned by city employees, and fruit trees require a lot of maintenance and nurturing. Watering, fertilizing, and pruning are just a few things that would be required on a regular basis. Essentially, a city would need to dedicate employees just to the care of these fruit trees, costing a lot of money. 3. Just how tolerant are fruit trees? Street trees are exposed to many modern toxins on a daily basis. Regular street trees are chosen for their tolerance of air pollution, a trait that fruit trees do not possess. Pollution from passing cars would lead to problems such as disease and sub-standard fruit growth. This would mean that the trees would need to be sprayed with chemicals, which in public places is never a good idea. 4. Would fruit tress have enough room to develop? Pollution from passing cars and limited root space stunt the growth of the current street trees found in most cities The trees often need to be replaced every few years. It is said that street trees only live on average for seven years. This means that fruit trees might not even reach the maturity needed to produce fruit — it takes between two and five years for an apple tree to bear fruit and between four and six years for a pear tree to mature. Even if apple trees were chosen for their faster fruit bearing, you might only get a few years of good fruit production out of the tree before it needs to be replaced. And that’s being optimistic, assuming that the fruit tree — which is not known for being tolerant of pollution — would live as long as the average street tree. 5. In such a linear format, how can we guarantee they all enough sunlight? Fruit trees are highly sensitive to sunlight, requiring a certain amount each day. Not only could this be a problem because of tall buildings that are common in cities, but also because of pollution. Car exhaust negatively affects growing fruit, as it contains sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides that coat the leaves, preventing light absorption. Without the proper amount of sunlight, fruit-bearing trees are unable to photosynthesize, leading to small and poor-quality fruit. Many types of smoke pollution — from combustion engines and cigarette smoke — contain ethylene, which is produced naturally by fruit as it ripens. If fruit is exposed to smoke for extended periods, it will ripen prematurely, a practice commonly used by commercial fruit farmers to ready fruit for sale. However, when these fruit are not being picked on a regular basis and the process happens so quickly that the stems are unable to support the weight of the fruit, the fruit will fall to the ground uneaten, leading back to problem number 1.

An Unrealistic But Well-Meaning Idea

Fruit trees replacing street trees to grow food for the homeless is an unrealistic but well-meaning idea. While this wouldn’t work, it is heading in the right direction. A better idea would be to have community orchards that are freely accessible to the homeless to harvest. Combining urban farming with social outreach is an idea that is taking off in many cities. For example, look to what is happening in Detroit. WATCH: Hantz Farms: Detroit’s Saving Grace

Several different non-profit organizations, including Urban Farming and Michigan Urban Farming Initiative, are repurposing abandoned plots throughout the downtown area as urban farms. Each plot has been set up to grow a variety of fruits and vegetables that are maintained either by the group or by the community, allowing everyone to harvest. This concept doesn’t face the same problems posed by fruit trees as street trees. The trees and plants within the abandoned plots have enough space and sunlight to grow well, and they live much longer without the harmful affects of relentless car pollution. It is cost effective, as all maintenance can be done by the community. And with more people to maintain and harvest, less food will be wasted. As well, any food that is not used by the homeless or community members can be given to local soup kitchens. So while the idea going viral is not the best solution to a social problem, it does get people thinking. If you find this idea intriguing, I encourage you to start your own urban farming project or encourage your local government to follow in the footsteps of Detroit. What do you think is planting trees along the sidewalk a terrible idea? Let us know in the comments below! Go to comments 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 Taylor Stapleton Return to Homepage Featured image: “Haikou street and bike lane – 01″ by Anna Frodesiak – Own work. Licensed under CC0 via Commons. Modified by SDR