Author: Land8: Landscape Architects Network

Şışhane Park by SANALarc, Istanbul, Turkey  Şışhane Park is a refreshing take on new urban public space. It oozes quality without being pretentious. Its clean geometric edges, clear open spaces, and mix of plantings beautifully frame the park while simultaneously integrating it with the surrounding city. It provides what all inner city spaces should: opportunity for a multitude of events, social encounters, relaxation, or expression. There are some notable draw card features, such as the silhouette walk, a walkway that sits above the city to the west and provides views across to a sunset backdrop.

As a truly modern sustainable urban park, the space may lack wide open lawn areas, but it is inviting, encouraging visitors to stay by creating a genteel ambiance, offering reclined sunset decks for people to lie on and look out over the old city and watch the sun set each evening. Native plantings enhance the genius loci – the identity of the park in its rich historic environment. The native trees also provide welcome shade for users seeking shelter in the summer months.

Sustainable Urban Design Becomes the Theater of Life

An indoor event space provides the opportunity for varying functions and opens out onto the hard-scaped central theater-like square, which is known as the “outdoor room” and is perfect for a range of cultural programming. Steps and terraces up one side of the central space aid in managing the 12-meter level change across the site, offer increased flexible seating options, and are also important in highlighting the unique features of the site that the design team wished to showcase in their sustainable urban design – those magnificent sweeping views across the old part of the city.

The design team set out to foster an environment that would “nurture the social life of public space”. This is done by encouraging park users to be viewers, or be viewed by others in the theater that is city life in Şışhane Park, predominantly in the outdoor room or on the silhouette walk. Along with the wide open spaces, there are also more intimate, private spaces, places for play, and areas for groups to gather. The park is an extension of the existing social spaces in the city, and further extends this social life as a gateway into other adjoining areas. Related Articles:

• Contemporary Landscape Architecture in China: Beautiful or Dangerous?
• Shipyard Site Transforms into Stunning Ecological Park
• Lotus Lake Park Sets Precedent for Sustainable Urban Design in China

Even the underground car park is edgy and exciting: Adorned in bright, bold colors to aid navigation, the walls also add energy and, as with much of the scheme’s detailing, show how extra effort and consideration around design and user experience can go a long way. Why should an underground, multistory car park purely be a concrete maze?

Connectivity – The Key to Sustainable Success The below-ground levels connect with the city’s public transport system, aiding connectivity and making Şışhane a truly dynamic hub of activity and a destination point for park users, and a beacon of sustainable urban design. A tree growing up through the levels of the car park toward the light shining down from the street level above reaffirms this – the whole site is connected with the city, the park and the 1,000-space car park flowing into each other as a single organism. And like a living organism, visitors can expect to see an ever-changing offering, day and night, from one season to the next, with changing events and changing faces frequenting the park. Sustainability in the City It should also be noted that the entire car park and rooftop park structure have been designed to minimize water usage – harvesting rainwater and incorporating permeable pavers to reduce storm water runoff. Natural light floods the top level of the car park, while natural cross ventilation circulates fresh air through the levels below. Soft works and materials at the surface reduce the heat island effect. This combination of responsible design consideration coupled with an understanding of site and the needs of the people for which the public space is intended is a fantastic example of the ever-increasing quality of projects being undertaken by the profession. Watch: Şışhane Park In many cities just like Istanbul, space is at a premium, but the history is rich and the landscape sensitive. Şışhane Park is able to offer a really exciting public space to entice potential users, tying together the old and new parts of the city, public and private transport, built and natural form. Focus on the strengths of the site, draw them out, encourage people to explore and enjoy them, and hopefully you, too, will be able to create quality public places. Recommended Reading:

• Urban Design  by Alex Krieger
• The Urban Design Handbook: Techniques and Working Methods (Second Edition) by Urban Design Associates

Article by Simon Vive Return to Homepage

Your guide to all the top computer software for landscape architects. There is a plethora of Computer Aided Software or CAD options on the market. All have something to offer for everyone from the budget focused landscape architecture student to the professional wanting a fully comprehensive package. Here we take you through a range of software options to suite all budgets and needs.

Software for Landscape Architects

• Sketchup

Sketchup is a FREE 3D drafting package with probably the world’s most intuitive interface. Much maligned for its simplicity, over the years Sketchup has gotten a bit of a bad rap for being ‘blocky’ or ‘too geometric’. However I’ve always found it to be as good as the designer using it. WATCH: Instant Topography with the Toggle Terrain Tool – The SketchUp Tutorials for Landscape Architects As well as being able to work in a 1:1 scale in 3D, there is a range of tools for lighting and set camera angles. The Sketchup 3D Warehouse allows you to download models of trees and plants straight into your own model.

Bottom line: Sketchup is a simple, intuitive, and above all FREE piece of drafting software, ideal for the budget focused student or professional who wants to produce quick models. Download Sketchup here. Do NOT miss our hit article: Top 10 Hints & Tips For SketchUp

• AutoCAD

AutoCAD, by Autodesk, comes in a comprehensive range of packages to suit most needs, and since 2012 has also supported MAC OS. Probably the most useful package for landscape architects is AutoCAD MAP 3D. This package fully supports Geographic Information System (GIS) and LiDAR (Light Detecting and Ranging) data sets, and allows you to create models over Geo-referenced rasterized images of maps.

I have found it very useful working on some of the larger infrastructure projects in the past. Autodesk also offer Revit for Building Information Modeling (BIM) purposes, allowing the user to track costs and efficiencies throughout the lifespan of a project. There is also AutoCAD LT, a trimmed down package offering basic 2D drafting at a lower cost. AutoCAD is not the most intuitive platform and can take a little while (or even some professional training) to get the most out of. Do NOT miss our hit article: 10 AutoCAD Hacks for Beginners! Bottom line: AutoCAD can be expensive, but it does everything you need and more. In many countries AutoCAD is the industry standard, and so if you want to work in multidisciplinary teams it may well be worth the investment. Find your country to download AutoCAD here.

• LandFX

LandFX is a very comprehensive landscape architecture CAD ‘plug-in’ that generates very good hard and soft landscape plans and construction/planting details. With a database of over 20,000 plants its unlikely any user is going to run out of plants to specify. As LandFX is a ‘plug-in’ it requires full AutoCAD to run – NOT AutoCAD LT (as aposed to Keyscape which comes with its own CAD driver, and so there is no need to buy an additional CAD program). This can make it a more expensive solution and therefore perhaps not suitable for the budget minded landscape architect or landscape student. WATCH: LandFX to Sketchup Bottom line: LandFX is very powerful and comprehensive product for the professional landscape architect. However, it’s requirement for full AutoCAD might make it too expensive for some. LandFX can be downloaded here.

• ArcGIS

ArcGIS, by Esri, is a Geographical Information System (GIS) for producing intelligent mapping and Geo-spatial graphics. The two main benefits of GIS are the breadth and depth of information that can be accessed, stored, and represented for any given location; and the ease at which that information can be shared. ArcGIS offers a range of desktop based platforms, from a simple viewer (known as Desktop Basic) that allows the user to view GIS files, through to the full package ‘Desktop Advanced’. There is even an online subscription based option that ensures you have access to GIS data no matter where you are or what device you are using. ArcGIS will suit any student or professional working on planning larger areas/neighborhoods, and those working in multidisciplinary teams. WATCH: ArcGIS 10 – Calculate Area and Volume of a Reservoir Bottom line: Arc GIS is a professional tool with very powerful capabilities for landscape architects, that comes in a range of solutions to suit most budgets. The full range of Esri’s products can be explored here.

• Keyscape Design Studio

Keyscape Design Studio, by Keysystems, is a dedicated landscape package running on an AutoCAD platform. It is a very flexible package that allows you to add to the range of 2D and 3G graphics. Planting plans are easily produced using the preloaded database of over 7500 plants. Hard landscape plans can also easily be produced using a range of editable hardscape patterns. As Keyscape runs on an AutoCAD platform it is fully integrated with the industry standard file format, making sharing of files easy. There is also a lite version for the more budget minded user. From personal experience I have always found their customer support and training to be first class. Bottom line: A great piece of landscape software that allows the user a great deal of flexibility. Download a trial version of Keyscape Design Studio here.

• ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD by Graphisoft is a CAD drawing and rendering program comparable with Autodesk’s main AutoCAD program. In price there isn’t much to chose between the two, so much of the choice comes down to personal preference and differences in features. Autodesk have a propensity to create many different programs aimed at specific markets, where as the flagship ArchiCAD program is more of an all singing all dancing option, that includes BIM and sophisticated rendering. Related Articles:

• Top 10 Hints & Tips For SketchUp
• 10 AutoCAD Hacks for Beginners!
• 3D Modeling Software for Landscape Architects

Bottom line: There isn’t much to chose between ArchiCAD and AutoCAD, but if you are looking for one program that will do more, and support a wider range of file formats, then ArchiCAD may be your best bet. Find out more about ArchiCAD here.

• Vectorworks Landmark

There is an age old debate between those who prefer Vectorworks (VW) and those who prefer AutoCAD. Essentially the two programs approach the same solutions from different angles. AutoCAD is said to be more programmatic and efficient, while VW is said to be more intuitive to those of an artistic nature. I originally trained in VW, but moved over to AutoCAD as it is the industry standard in the UK. I enjoyed VW, and did indeed find it more intuitive and easier to create quick 3D models, but working in multidisciplinary teams requires the ability to be able to share data and generate tender and construction drawings from shared files, and so therefore I had to learn to use AutoCAD. WATCH: Welcome to Vectorworks Landmark Bottom line: VW Landmark does everything a landscape architect requires from CAD software in an intuitive and stylish way, but is not industry standard in some countries. Find out more and here.

• Rhino

For rendering of 3D models Rhino 5 offers a very capable package that will feel like second nature to any experienced CAD user. Even if you are a novice, Rhino explains what all their tools do in a straight-forward way so that you can be creating 3D CAD models in no time. There is also a range of ‘plug-ins’ available like Grasshopper and Flamingo that allow you to create photo-realistic models that are easily editable. WATCH: How to get a Free 3D Tree Library for Rhino with VRay Support Bottom line: Rhino is a powerful industry standard rendering program that offers the landscape architect everything they need to create photo-realistic rendered CAD models. FREE trials of Rhino can be downloaded here.

• Blender

Aimed at the animation and gaming market, Blender offers the landscape architect a powerful (and above all FREE) photo-realistic rendering package. Being open source software, Blender has a wide range of ever changing capabilities that allow the user to create models, and then animate them with surprisingly sophisticated tools. Features that will appeal to the landscape architect include the speed at which simple rendered models can be created, and the simplicity of walk through/fly-by animation. WATCH: Blender Tutorial: How to make a grass field? Bottom line: Blender is a great open source project that offers the budget minded landscape professional or student free photo-realistic 3D model rendering. Find out more about the Blender project here. With a such a range of CAD software available to the landscape architect it can sometimes seem daunting choosing a program. While some choices (such as AutoCAD/Vectorworks) might come down to personal preference, there are some great FREE CAD options like Sketchup and Blender that are worth investigating. What is your personal CAD preference? Recommended Reading:

• SketchUp 2014 For Dummies by Aidan Chopra
• The Complete Guide to Blender Graphics, Second Edition: Computer Modeling and Animation by John M. Blain

Article by Ashley Penn Return to Homepage Featured image: Printscreen from Youtube; source.

Viewpoint Ørnesvingen, by 3RW Architects in collaboration with Smedsvig Landskapsarkitekter AS in Geiranger, Norway. One of the most complicated mountain systems in all of Europe belongs to Norway, where the highways and roads follow a serpentine route of curves and bends. Because of this, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration commissioned 3RW Architects to design diverse viewpoints, paths, and outdoor furniture along The Atlantic Road to provide the environment with better tools to absorb rising pressure from the tourist industry. The Ørnesvingen site, located on across the valley from Flydalsjuvet, close to the community of Geiranger, located at the end of the Geiranger Fjord, is the most beautiful viewpoint of all the places along the Eagle Road. The space provides astounding views over the acknowledged UNESCO world heritage site, transforming it into one of the most popular of Norway’s tourist sites (600,000 people visited it in a period of five months).

Breathtaking Views The Viewpoint Ørnesvingen, designed by 3RW Architects in collaboration with Smedsvig Landskapsarkitekter, is a project of small scale, but big landscape potential. Located at one of the many bends of The Atlantic Road, the viewpoint takes advantage of the Ørnesvingen landscape and gives users the opportunity to witness breathtaking views. “The integration with the natural landscape is the core aspect of the project”. The location of the project, thanks to the highroad stroke, is a particular situation in which a problem becomes the opportunity to generate the idea of a landscape project that uses a residual space. The project uses one of the many bends of the highway to establish a comfortable and peaceful place, where you can be in touch with nature. The integration with the natural landscape is the core aspect of the project. But it is not only about the integration of the project, but the integration of each user. To do this, geometrical considerations, simple architectonic program, and materials are the elements used and combined by 3RW Architects to achieve this goal. A Complement to the Surroundings The simple and aesthetic design of the platform makes evident the panoramic views of the site (from the clear skies to the calm river, passing through the mountains). Being inside the project, it’s easy to feel surrounded by nature, to feel the energy of the site and the peacefulness of such a magical place. Because of this, the project becomes part of the forest instead of something imposed on it. Don’t look down! Another key aspect of the project is the structure. Despite being an element that is not seen or considered by most tourists, the structural considerations allow for the elevated and, apparently, floating concrete slab. With this, the Viewpoint Ørnesvingen defines a 600-meter vertical drop, enabling the observer to step out into the airspace. The Waterfall The viewpoint is not only concerned about the panoramic and spectacular views of the site, but also about the water theme of the site. To represent this, they designed an artificial waterfall located at the left side of the concrete platform. With this, the quiet environment of the site is broken by the sound of the water when it hits the rocks. Related Articles:

• Mo I Rana Waterfront Competition Winners!
• Rooftop Infinity Pool with Awesome Views
• The Garden of Hilton Pattaya by TROP : terrains + open space

WATCH: Geiranger Fjord Viewpoint (30 second video clip) Materials Used The most used material in this project is concrete, and its structural pattern was made in collaboration with artist Mai Elin Eikaas Bjerk. The material is also used as benches. The differentiation between these two elements is in the finish — while the benches are white and have a fine concrete finish, the slabs are gray and with a rustic finish.

Each bench functions as urban furniture, but also as a security barrier, in case of a car crash. The dimensions of the benches also exalt the geometry of the high road. They function as a geometrical link between the road and the viewport platform. The rail, with a design based on steel, creates a unique visual sensation in which you can see the reflections of the sun in a very particular way. The geometry of the rail is as simple as required in order to allow integration with the landscape by avoiding architectural barriers. The project expresses equilibrium and perfect order with the continuous change in the Norwegian landscape – always modified, altered, and improved by cultural ambitions. It also shows a calm and quiet place can be surrounded by a unique dramatic landscape. Its location and function allow for panoramic views and a sensation of floating, but most important they let the tourist take a break from driving and be in contact with this beautiful landscape. Recommended Reading:

• Architecture in Northern Landscapes by Todd Saunders
• Site Engineering for Landscape Architects by Steven Strom

Article by Luis Eduardo Guísar Benítez Return to Homepage

Effective and sustainable ways to conserve water in landscape architecture. As we all know, water is essential to life, whether for humans or for any other living things. Water is a natural resource necessary but perceived as a limited commodity today. Furthermore, urban development generally leads to soil sealing. This generates disturbances in the water cycle and often causes flooding following the runoff from impervious surfaces that increase water velocity and therefore causes a lot of damage. So, poor management of water can cause damage to water systems and the environment. Therefore, it is imperative to act for better water management to promote its evacuation and the recovery of its natural cycle.

Here are 9 Methods we Can Apply to Conserve Water:

1. Meadows and floodplains When we are in a situation where runoff water is abundant and that its volume or speed can cause damage; (for example in the case of a steep slope), it is interesting to create a grassed waterway called a swale, or allow water to flood a meadow. This allows the speed of the water to slow down and acts as a filter to help retain soil nutrients as well as pesticides transported by runoff. This last point is important because in most cases these waters are headed directly into a ditch or stream. Retaining the pesticides in land allows the water quality to be improved.

Don’t miss our book review Meadows by Design by John Greenlee. 2.  Terraces We think directly about the beautiful rice terraces in China that use this method better than anyone else. But this structure can also be used in our countries, although it is less impressive. It is used to reduce the speed of runoff in crop fields where the slope is long and steep. This also reduces soil erosion. 3. Hedges Hedges planted on the edge of fields or streams are not just decorative; even if it is one of the advantages they offer. In fact, they reduce the speed of the water and so reduce the damage related to flooding and mudslides. But these plantations are also used to stabilize banks when they are planted next to a stream. They also help to reduce water loss by evaporation, they retain soil moisture and as an added bonus, they maintain and increase biodiversity, act as habitat connectivity pathways, and reduce the effects of the wind. 4. Development of ditches Today, it often happens that the ditches are buried because they are considered as an open sewer and are dirty and smell bad. Thereby people forget our relationship with the water. It can be useful to create open ditches so that citizens may renew visual contact with the water and realize that we must improve our water management. To make them acceptable and to keep ditches open, we can create ornamental ditches which play a social role, but also an environmental role, because these planted ditches also increases biodiversity. 5.  Catchment basins Catchment basins allow the accumulation of runoff water for a certain period. This type of development is used to reduce the velocity of runoff which then slowly flows into the water course. These basins are also used to promote the sedimentation of the soil particles carried by these sources of water. There are different types of basins. Firstly they are placed according to the terrain. The basin can simply be dug on flat ground or it can be built on a slope with berms. The basins can be simply fitted for their role in assisting in the evacuation of water and can be planted with grass. But it is also possible to grow crops in these ponds when the flood periods are short. It is possible to assign other functions as purely utilitarian! Also, it is possible to arrange ornamental retention basins that contribute to the development of biodiversity and have a playful and recreational aspect that encourages people to walk around. 6.  Preservation of peatlands and wetlands Peatlands are wetland areas because Sphagnum (Sphagnum sp.) has a significant capacity to conserve water, they are like sponges. This phenomenon contributes to maintain a humid and fresh microclimate which is useful for plant development. In addition, these plants filter water and purify it. In a similar way to retention ponds, peatlands, which are natural, help to maintain water for a certain period of time before returning them to the natural environment and thus help to mitigate floods and maintain a minimum flow in rivers during summer. It is therefore important to protect peatlands but also wetlands that help regulate the water. These environments are also often used by migratory birds guiding them during their course, and act as important sources of water for wildlife. Related Articles:

• Innovation in Water Management for Stunning Landscape Design
• What Landscape Architects Need to Know About Water Shortages
• 10 Practices Showing That “Sustainability” is More Than Just a Buzzword!

WATCH: What is the value of a peat bog? 7. Maintain forests Forests have beneficial effects in every way, whether for the conservation of water and soil or as a carbon reduction and atmospheric pollution measure. For these reasons, it is important to conserve forests. But today we also see a new phenomenon, that is urban forests. This is a positive alternative when forests do not exist or are not sufficient to meet the ecosystem services we need. WATCH: Benefits of Urban Forests Regarding the conservation of water, trees play a major role in regulating the water as they participate in the water cycle, allowing a percentage of the rain to reach the ground and going directly back into the earth’s natural systems. Also, a small percentage of the rain which falls on trees evaporates directly from leaves, integrating it back into the earth’s atmosphere. Further more, planting an urban forest can reduce ambient temperatures, mitigating the effects of the phenomenon of urban heat islands, caused by surface concrete and asphalt. 8. Permeable pavements To reduce the saturation of hydrological networks and water runoff, it is important to think about making landscapes with the greatest permeable surface as possible. Thus, we can act on parking lots, tram tracks, pathway surfaces… All these combined actions allow to greatly reduce soil sealing.

Don’t miss our essential guides, including a special feature on permeable paving. 9.  Select plants suited to the climate and soil Despite a wide range of plants in the nursery, not all are necessarily adapted to our climate. You have to choose plants that are adapted to the climatic conditions in your area and soil present in your garden. Thus, opting for native plants you will get a more durable and less demanding garden. WATCH: Xeriscape is not a garden, it’s a system However, nurseries indicate that the succulent plants or gray foliage are more drought resistant. Among these plants, we can mention mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), lavender (Lavandula sp.) and thyme (Thymus sp.) or sedum (Sedum sp.) and fescue (Festuca sp.), stipa (Stipa sp.), miscanthus (Miscanthus sp.) and pennisetum (Pennisetum sp.). So water management in the territory is an important element to consider when designing a project as it acts on other elements such as the reduction of erosion, the increase of biodiversity, and it also improves the relationship that people have with water. Therefore, it is necessary to act for its preservation in our landscapes. Recommended Reading:

• Landscape Ecology Principles in Landscape Architecture and Land-Use Planning by Wenche Dramstad
• Principles of Ecological Landscape Design by Travis Beck

Article by Alexandra Wilmet. Return to Homepage

The Lakewood Garden Mausoleum by HGA Architects. The Lakewood Garden Mausoleum was considered Minnesota’s finest place for the final rest since its founding in the 1870s. Many popular names of the time were engraved on this cemetery. As time passed by, local residents developed an emotional connection with the site, making it a treasured landmark in the neighborhood. HGA Architects and Engineers had the task of leading the master plan for a full renovation. From the beginning, Halvorson’s Design Partnership’s lead architect gave advice for the landscape composition and helped as a highly valued design team member until the renovation was complete.

The project has won the ASLA National Award of Excellence for 2013 and the Honor Award by the Boston Society of Landscape Architecture. Lakewood Cemetery The site consisted of a byzantine-styled chapel, the two-story mausoleum, the garden crypts, a problematic “pool of reflections” and paths. A strategic expansion had to be done to preserve this beloved space.

An Historical Landscape

Laid over 250 acres, the Lakewood Cemetery was founded in 1871. It was governed by the Lakewood Cemetery Association, a non-profit organization that ensured the vitality of the mausoleum with its master plan and space saving for future development. The renovation planning started in the late 1990s, and cemetery trustees finally commissioned the work in 2003. The project included a new garden mausoleum for more than 10,000 graves and a full landscape makeover.

Landscaping for Tranquility Halvorson’s collaboration from an early design stage allowed the project to evolve as a unified space. Landscaping is a key element for the sensations inside the building. Large wall openings face the garden’s geometric figures. The central space works as a unifying element for the 1960s-era mausoleum, the byzantine-styled chapel, and the new garden mausoleum. Between the chapel and the existing mausoleum, a redesigned, zero-edge reflecting pool draws an axial line, while the surrounding hawthorn and maple trees encourage reflection and peace. To the northeast lies a beautiful roof garden covered by juniper shrubs and a perfectly mown lawn. From the central garden to the rooftop, a group of terraced lawn steps gently dissipate the transition between the building and the natural ground. Geometrical figures pop up from the top of the roof, serving as skylights for the chambers beneath them. A barely visible glass railing protects people from falling without compromising the view. Related Articles:

• The Landscape of Death and Green Burial – How Our Beliefs Design Cemeteries
• 15 Great Examples of Historical Landscape Architecture
• Giant Sized Pergola Creates Ecological Haven

The niches between the crypt rooms of the new Garden Mausoleum are an extension from the interior to the landscape; this is definitely an extraordinary way to give light and joy back to the room. It helps the user to focus a little bit more on life rather than death. Circulation along the central garden is shifted away from the building. Elevated bronze plant slabs surrounded by river stones embellish the pathway while giving privacy to the crypt rooms. Small trees, grass, and juniper shrubs were used for these features. Sustainable Attributes As mentioned before, parts of the new built areas have their surface covered by a green roof with all the benefits it carries. Storm water is stored in a below-grade infiltration system under the river stones, and further sustainable features include native trees and the preservation of existing vegetation through air spading and root pruning. Lighting is minimal, and permeable parking areas and lower garden paths are covered with locally sourced granite. WATCH: A beautiful overview of Lakewood Garden Mausoleum The Lakewood Garden Mausoleum preserves the harmony with its surroundings, as it did 150 years ago. But this time, architects took a different approach and came up with a very distinguished landscape design. The clear conversation between the building and the planned landscape makes it an iconic work and a good example of how landscape architecture should respond to a building’s nature and human needs. Recommended Reading:

• Graceland Cemetery: A Design History by Christopher Vernon
• Stories in Stone: A Field Guide to Cemetery Symbolism and Iconography by Douglas Keister

Article by Eduardo Reguer Return to Homepage

The City Dune by SLA and buildings by Lundgaard & Tranberg Arkitekter, Copenhagen, Denmark. Public spaces should be the heart and soul of every city; they might be the meeting places for the citizens, the areas where people gather, spend time, socialize. The potential is endless – however, this is often unfulfilled, leaving the spaces underused, empty, lifeless and forgotten. Fortunately, more and more areas are getting revitalised, invigorated and refurbished for the benefit of local communities. Such great public spaces are always full of life. They are functional, they can be used in a variety of different ways. It takes a team of wonderful landscape architects to design a working urban space – Danish studio SLA managed to succeed with its project, the City Dune, designed and constructed for the leading Nordic bank, SEB.

The History of this Iconic Space The City Dune is an exemplary public space, constructed in 2011 in Copenhagen, Denmark. Its history started when the Swedish SEB bank decided to build its Scandinavian headquarters in Copenhagen, at Bernstorffsgade 44, right next to the harbour cutting the city in half. This area was often scolded for being unattractive, unwelcoming and underused. It all changed with the construction of the City Dune, technically a private ground owned by SEB, open to the public under the Danish law.

Conceptual Design at the Forefront

The concept of the design is enclosed in its name – the area is supposed to represent a giant urban dune (covering 7300 m2,, with its top elevated 7 metres above the street level), inspired by the sand dunes of North Jutland as well as by the snow dunes, which are a common occurrence during Scandinavian winter. Denmark has strong ties to the sea, and Copenhagen is its coastal capital. On top of that, the site is the Scandinavian headquarters of the Swedish bank. The multi-layered conceptual design reference to the dune is therefore understandable and meaningful for the locals. One of the main aims of the design is to ensure easy and intuitive communication routes across the whole area, connecting the busy street with the bank’s office buildings and the area behind them. The spatial arrangement of the dune’s slope encourages the movement of the cyclists and pedestrians across the space, along alternative routes. It also makes for a great space for skateboarding.

The ideas of the “flowing intelligence” and enhanced mobility are one of the main themes of the whole conceptual design. The visitor is encouraged to find a new way through the area every time, which makes each visit a new experience. The movement is encouraged by the layout of the concrete shelves and planes as well as the planting located on the fissures between them. Related articles:

• Copenhagen’s First Climate Resilient Neighbourhood
• Can Copenhagen Become the Best Cycling City in the World?
• Cool Pavements: The Essential Guide

Materials and Sustainability The most prominent material used in the area is white, folded concrete. This huge, white surface has an added benefit of repelling the heat radiation and making the area cooler during the Summer, in a similar way to Julia Lucchese explains in her article – Cool Pavements: The Essential Guide. The shiny contemporary space is divided by pockets of greenery – large herbaceous borders and individually planted large trees. The variety of plants enhances the value of the urban space at all times of the year.

The project is fully sustainable. All the rainwater is collected and recycled, used in the water atomizers in order to moisten the air. The area is populated by a variety of users; the employees of the bank, pedestrians, cyclists, skateboarders, youth and the elderly. The in-situ poured concrete has a non-skid and water-repellent surface, which makes it safe for everyone that might be passing through it. The lighting also makes it a pleasant place to be at night. The City Dune project is a great example how a previously underused and boring space can be made into an attractive area perfectly serving the local community. It also shows how functionality is an integral and essential element of a wonderful conceptual design. Recommended Reading:

• Heat Islands: Understanding and Mitigating Heat in Urban Areas by Lisa Gartland
• Designing Small Parks: A Manual for Addressing Social and Ecological Concerns by Ann Forsyth

Article by Marta Ratajszczak Return to Homepage

A look at some of the world’s most outstanding riverbank projects. When it comes to building sustainable cities, discussion often centers on urban rivers and their surroundings. In many cities around the world, rivers have been channelized, transformed into receptacles for waste disposal, or just forgotten when they are no longer needed for industrial and commercial uses. As a consequence, these rivers have lost their innate ability to aid in flood control, seen their aquatic life destroyed, and gone unnoticed due to construction of barriers that blocked their access and hid them from residents’ eyes. But in other cities, once dead spaces along rivers are being brought back to life and transformed into recreational areas, meeting the demand for outdoor spaces from quickly growing populations. As in music, where the notes and the pauses have equal importance, an increase in constructed areas must harmonize with green space to guarantee liveable cities for the future.

Inspiring Riverbank Projects

Riverbanks can set the new pace for this composition. The following list offers some of the most inspiring river transformations that have improved the relationship between city residents and nature, inviting people to look at rivers not as obstacles, but as vital and connective urban components. 10. Berges de Seine, Paris, France, by Franklin Azzi Architecture The combination of historic bridges and monuments along the Seine River has made this place one of the top tourist attractions in the world. Some may think that the designation of the famous riverbanks as a UNESCO World Heritage Site means that the place cannot be changed. But the initiative of the local authority, known as Berges de Seine, is showing that historic riverbanks can be modernized to adapt to the current needs of a city.

An open-air park along the Seine is filled with benches, bars, gardens, and playgrounds (some making use of recycled materials such as ship containers), making the area along the Seine more attractive for tourists and recovering its importance as a meeting point for city residents. The riverbank regeneration project is also seriously engaged in motivating physical activities, such as group walks; providing more adequate seating areas to watch performances; and reorganizing the public space so that it can be better shared by pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. 9. Melbourne Southbank Promenade, Australia, by Denton Corker Marshall Surrounded by a variety of arts and cultural buildings and featuring cafes, shops, and restaurants, the Southbank Promenade stretches along the south side of the Yarra River as one of the most important cultural and social hubs in Australia. The design was completed in the early 1990s when the former dock site was the subject of an urban renewal. The promenade paved the way for important developments that transformed the area into a successful business center. It is still fundamental to attracting investments and enticing people with a variety of leisure options and splendid views of the river and the city. 8. Mill River Park, City of Stamford, Connecticut, USA, designed by The Olin Studio in collaboration with the Mill River Collaborative Although there are several stages to be completed in the upcoming years, some important parts of the total 28-acre area are already finished, and they are significantly improving the residents’ quality of life by enabling people to experience nature without leaving the urban environment. The project encompasses the creation of world-class recreational facilities, attractive green areas, and walkways. But its main feature is the restoration of the urban section of the Mill River and its banks. By applying approaches of sustainable design and bio-engineering techniques, the design and technical teams worked together to remove concrete walls and de-pollute the water to allow the river to flow freely, storm water to be absorbed, and wildlife to return to the area. The riverbanks have become the focal point of this new space that has transformed a decaying downtown area into a healthy central park. Read more in our review of the Mill River Park. 7. Louise McKinney Riverfront Park, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, designed by Dialog As Edmonton is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, urban revitalization projects such as the Louise McKinney Riverfront Park, which created a 15-hectare green space in an area formerly occupied by a landfill, are fundamental to keep the balance between increasing constructions and nature. The preference for a verdant open space over more complex solutions has provided an unobstructed river view for developments adjacent to downtown and a lawn for recreation and special events. The park is the gateway to trails, motivating people to explore the outdoors beyond the city boundaries and allowing newcomers and longtime citizens to celebrate the riverfront during special events. 6. Kallang River Bishan Park, Singapore, designed by Atelier Dreiseitl This project is part of Singapore’s program of water management, which aims not only to guarantee an efficient drainage and supply system, but also to transform areas located along the water into recreational and social spaces. Completed in 2012, it occupies a total area of 62 hectares redesigned around a restored sinuous river to offer green spaces, restaurants, playgrounds, and a look-out built using recycled concrete from an old channel. WATCH: Have you met the Friends of Kallang River @ Bishan Park? Because the design is based on a floodplain concept, during rainy season the park works as a channel and, when the water level is low, the soft riverbanks can be used for recreation, allowing people to get close to the water. Another important achievement for the urban environment was the increase of biodiversity brought by the transformation of the concrete channel into a re-naturalized river that now flows freely, surrounded by vibrant spaces. WATCH: Kallang River at Bishan Park 5. The Red Ribbon Park, Tanghe River, Qinhuangdao City, Hebei Province, China, by Turenscape The 500-meter-long red ribbon was the surprising solution found by the designers to preserve natural habitats and create recreational and educational areas along the river. Made of fiber steel, the ribbon stretches along the riverbank, working as a winding seating component and integrating the walk pathways to the diverse spaces in the park. The contrast of the “red ribbon” with the green areas during the day becomes even more interesting at night, due to red glowing light installed inside. Related Articles: 

• How Industrial Landscapes Can Become Beautiful Sites
• Extraordinary Development Re-connects City With The River Bank
• RheinRing Bridge is a Work of Art!

Since its completion in 2008, the 20-hectare green area that replaced the formerly inaccessible riverbanks is being massively used by the growing urban population without compromising the goals of preservation of the environment. The ribbon has been working as a key component of this success because it is the “spine” that provides structure to the space and makes reference to ancestral Chinese myths of energy flow, allowing people to identify with the environment through their cultural heritage.

4. Cheonggyecheon River Project, Seoul, South Korea, by SeoAhn Total Landscape Opened to the public in September 2005, this project embellished downtown Seoul with its hanging garden-like banks framing a cascading stream. It became a reference for urban renewal by the designers’ bold choice of demolishing an elevated highway to allow the restoration of the stream and the planting on its banks. WATCH: Cheonggyecheon River in South Korea – Best restored river in the world, possibly The project was started by Mayor Lee Myung-bak in 2003, and, although it faced opposition, its implementation proved that its benefits outweighed its costs. The landscape that replaced the typical urban concrete space and motorized lanes now attracts tourists and investors, promotes sustainable transportation, preserves cultural heritage, and provides flood control. It turned the city into a sensitive environment, while promoting its social and economic development. 3. The Rhone River Banks, Lyon, France, by In Situ Architectes Paysagistes The population of Lyon was given a 10-hectare linear space for recreation when this winning project for the competition for the improvement of the Rhone River Banks was completed in 2007. Formerly used as a car park area, the east side of the river is now a dynamic space featuring walkways and bicycle lanes that facilitate exercise and promote sustainable transportation. The main characteristics of this impressive space are the giant amphitheater-like stair and seating components that were built taking advantage of the sloped riverbanks, which accommodate the audience for performances, work as social gatherings spots, and are used as rooms for relaxation. The water fountains and lawns are alternatives for re-energizing while enjoying the scenic views of the river. Read more in our review of the Rhone River Bank. 2. Zhongshan Shipyard Park, Guangdong, China, by Turenscape This park was built in an abandoned shipyard, with the main goals of preserving the environment and historic heritage. With the creation of solutions such as an island to preserve trees and regulation of the water level in the Qjiang River in the early 2000s, the landscape architects showed leadership in environmental practices. The principles of reutilization and recycling of natural and man-made materials were also followed when creating new forms that resulted in an artistic reconstruction of the brownfield. Read more in our review of the Zhongshan Shipyard Park. 1. Rio Madrid, Spain, by West 8 and MRIO Arquitectos The area along the River Manzanares in the center of Madrid was completely changed after the completion of this project in 2011. The project was designed to reintegrate the river with the city. This huge transformation included the construction of tunnels to accommodate car traffic, leaving the ground level free for the construction of gardens, and the creation of pedestrians ways that preserve the city’s heritage and link the river to the other parts of Madrid. The Salon de Pinos is the key space to reach these goals because, as its name suggests, it was designed to invite visitors to a ballroom-like space where the pace is set by the pine trees planted at different angles to configure a unique urban forest and soften the riverbanks’ hardscape, built mainly in concrete. It’s one of the most original urban designs recently implemented, not only because it creates a layer of nature and leisure over a motor tunnel, but also by having enhanced the river’s landscape, reminding the city about the importance of its natural elements. Read more in our review of Rio Madrid. These 10 projects are some of the best examples of reconnecting riverbanks with post-industrial cities, since they not only apply sustainable methods of design, but also show that the dream of bringing the rivers back as core elements of the urban fabric is an achievable goal. The designers also met users’ expectations by recreating the landscape in a way that citizens can rediscover and enjoy the places where their cities were born. Recommended Reading:

• Landscape Architecture Now! by Philip Jodidio
• Landscape Graphics by Grant Reid

Article by Tania Gianone Return to Homepage

Monuments across the globe.

Monuments have been an important part of our landscapes for millennia. Some of them have been accepted by their communities almost immediately, while others raised controversies, complaints, or even protests. Sometimes it takes time for a monument to grow into the landscape and to become part of it or even an icon or a landmark. Who knows, maybe the ancient Egyptians complained about the Sphynx or the pyramids — who can now imagine Egypt without those majestic constructions? Other structures don’t pass the test of time and are either universally hated, or removed and forgotten. We are presenting the list of the monuments that raised the most controversy in their time. Find out which are still doubted, and which became well loved.

10. Obelisco de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Designed by Alberto Prebisch and erected on Plaza de la República in 1936, the Obelisco is now an icon of Buenos Aires, but it wasn’t always so. The residents of the city strongly objected to its “unimaginative and stark appearance”. Their resentment was enhanced by the fact that the monument took the place of a church, which was demolished to give way to the Obelisco and Av. 9 de Julio. During its history, the monument has witnessed political events and protests and was a part of several art projects.

9. Christ of the Pacific, Lima, Peru

The Christ statue modeled after Rio De Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer was commissioned by former Peruvian President Alan García and was controversial from the very beginning. First of all, Lima’s mayor was informed of the construction only days before it started. Secondly, the whole structure was designed and built in Brazil. There were no studies on its potential impact on the area, and many people complained about the cost and the country’s allegiance with the Catholic Church. Still, the monument was built and now stretches 37 meters high above Peru’s capital. 8. Pyramide du Louvre, Paris, France

Built in 1989 as a new, modernist entrance to the Louvre Museum, it has since grown into the Parisian landscape. At the time of the monument’s construction, it raised controversy due to the ultra-modern character of the structure placed right in front of the classical palace.

The monument’s popularity wasn’t helped by the legend that the Pyramide contains 666 glass panes. There were even accusations that the American architect,  I.M. Pei, destroyed the very heart of Paris. However, people seem to have grown used to this iconic structure.

7. Valley of the Fallen, Spain

The massive basilica carved in the mountainside by political prisoners was ordered by General Franco to commemorate those who died during the 1930s Spanish Civil War. Years of controversy and protests resulted in an assembly of a commission to establish its future. More than likely, Franco’s body will be removed from the site and the whole monument might be redesigned as a “monument to Democracy”.

6. Jesus statue in Poland

Reaching 36 meters in height (52.5 meters including its mound), this is officially the tallest statue of Jesus in the world. It rises from a large plain near the Berlin-Warsaw motorway, opposite a large Tesco supermarket. Its grandeur and less-than-glamorous location have made it a subject of ridicule and tasteless jokes. There have also been concerns regarding the safety of the monument. The whole project was finished in 2010, at the cost of 6 million PLN, enirely funded by the local community and the Polonia.

WATCH: (Ametuer) Video footage of Jesus statue 5. The Angel of the North,  Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, England The formerly controversial monument, which became a landmark for North-East England, was raised between 1994 and 1998 on a hill on the southern edge of Low Fell. Most people now feel a connection with this iconic structure; however, during its construction, numerous concerns were raised.

It was feared that the giant sculpture would distract drivers, interfere with television reception, and ruin views. The project did no such thing; on the contrary, it became a major tourist attraction and an inspiration for several other sculptures, some of them equally controversial,  including the Angel of the South and the Angel of the West. Related Articles:

• Giant Rabbit Art Has Tourists Flocking to See it!
• Amazing Kinetic Sculptures That Could Hypnotize You
• The Art and Science of Wind Propelled Sculptures

4. African Renaissance Monument, Senegal

This monument, commissioned by President Abdoulaye Wade and unveiled in 2010, was widely criticized both for its huge cost and for sexism, as well as for the skimpy clothing of the depicted female and the lack of style. The sculpture shows a muscular man, with a baby in his arms, emerging from a volcano, pulling along a half-naked woman.

It is the tallest statue in Africa, designed by a Romanian architect and built at the cost of 27 million American dollars by a North Korean company, which also was a matter of controversy. WATCH: Monument De La Renaissance Africane

3. To the Struggle Against World Terrorism, Bayonne, New Jersey,  USA

This huge statue was given to the United States by Russia in 2006. It was first supposed to be placed in New Jersey City, but the city refused and it ended up in Bayonne. The monument is shaped out of steel and coated in bronze. The 30-meter tower is split in the middle, with a large, stainless steel teardrop hanging in the opening, as a memorial to those who died during terrorist attacks in the U.S.

The monument, also known as the Teardrop Memorial, raised massive controversies. First of all, the artist is known for dubious aesthetics. Secondly, he put an outdated list of names of the victims on the base of the sculpture, together with a giant Putin’s face. Finally, some say that the structure resembles part of the female anatomy. To top it all, the monument obscures the beautiful views of Manhattan. 2. The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower must be one of the first names that spring to mind when thinking about Paris. Can anyone imagine this city without that towering, iconic structure? However, it wasn’t always like that; the construction of the tower was incredibly controversial and caused a lot of protests among the artists and architects of 19th-century Paris.

They raised concerns regarding the feasibility of the structure and complained about the tower destroying the landscape of the city. Some of the opponents accepted the tower once it was built; others continued to hate it for the rest of their lives. 1. The Arch of Neutrality, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

This true vanity monument was erected by the Turkmenistan “president for life” Saparmurat Niyazov in celebration of his adoption of neutrality as his official policy. The Arch of Neutrality was a rocket-shaped tower, topped with a gold statue of  Niyazov himself. The statue rotated during the day, so that his face was always in the sun.

Built in 1998, at a cost of more than $12 million, the structure was an outrageous monument to the pride and vanity of one person. As ordered by the new president, Berdimuhamedow, the arch was dismantled in 2010 and replaced with a 95-meter-tall “Monument to Neutrality”. The new monument is located in the suburbs. The golden statue is a part of it, but, sadly, it no longer rotates.

What makes a monument controversial? How come some of them become truly a part of a surrounding landscape, while some stick out like a sore thumb?

Recommended Reading:

• 100 Landmarks of the World: A Journey to the Most Fascinating Landmarks Around the Globe by Parragon Books
• Public Art: Theory, Practice and Populism by Cher Krause Knight

Article written by Marta Ratajszczak

Return to Homepage Featured image: Andrew F. Kazmierski / shutterstock.com

This week’s Sketchy Saturday top 10. Welcome to this week’s exciting edition of Sketchy Saturday; this week’s sketches show a great diversity in style with some Sketchy Saturday regulars throwing their hat into the ring for another attempt at top spot. Certainly sketching and free style hand techniques are skills that will always be appreciated, regardless of whether you are a student or professional so let yourself be inspired by this week’s top 10 and submit your own sketch for next week’s edition of Sketchy Saturday. 10. by Yingying Tu, Chinese student of Landscape Architecture

” The sketch was made on plain A4 paper with marker pens and colour pencils. It is a picture I imagined: A set of parterre plants as a prospect,wooden boardwalks around the central pool. A square on the left and a lawn on the right. There are trees and mountains in the distance.Hard elements stay in harmony with soft and create a brisk atmosphere.” 9. by Monika Magoń,  fourth year student of landscape architecture at the University of Rzeszów, Poland “This was made with a pencil technique. The drawing shows the sea coast. Both the technique and subject matter are very close to me.” 8. by Sarayut Chanachai (Bay), freelance landscape architect , Maejo university, Thailand “We had only one night to prepare our full package presentation for the client for a new Shopping center design in Chengdu ,China. The concept is about stars and champagne glasses, colors and celebrations, so we made the shading canopy and sculpture in a champagne glass shape with colorful lighting in the SoHo area – I started to make quick sketches. To represent a sense of place we use a sketchy style and variety of colors to make the feeling of movement and fun – material used Black ink pen and Marker” 7. by Steven Page “This is a conceptual charcoal sketch from the Scottsdale, AZ desert.” 6. by Partizan arif younus, Northern Iraq (Kurdistan) “It’s a drawing perspective of a monastery which has been abandoned. Now it’s an architectural faculty of GAU (university) and we are restoring the place and so now we have a design studio project over there. The drawing’s name is “revitalization” I’m trying to bring life again into the monastery by catching those dead souls in the sky by that iron feature which has been there for a long time.” 5. by Juliana Lalaj, architecture student, Coventry University, United Kingdom “As a final year, we have to choose a topic and write our dissertation about it. This is one of the buildings I have to analyse, so I made sketches to illustrate my dissertation. The building is the National Art Gallery of Albania. I have used pencils (2B-2H depending on the shadows), sitting in front of the building for some hours.” 4. by Jesus Palafox Garcia, Architect, Mexico “The monumental architecture is exciting, I worked many years in monument restoration. When the time allows I’m drawing. This drawing, is the Cathedral of the City of Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico. Technique: Pencil and watercolor on paper.” Related Articles:

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3. by Amaury Martins Neto, landscape architect , agronomist engineer , São Paulo – Brasil “I think the visualization process is as important as the design itself. With that in mind I made this sketch to illustrate for my clients how the facade will look like when the garden gets concluded. It is a hand drawing and colored with copic markers and I did some final adjustments on photoshop.” 2. by Steven James Page, background as a golf course design consultant, Phoenix, AZ, USA “The sketch is a perspective watercolor using a Faber-Castell PITT artist pen, Derwent watercolor pencils, Winsor & Newton brushes (3/4 inch flat, number 12 round, number 4 round, and mop brush), on Strathmore 400 series 11×15 inch 140lb paper. It was inspired by a photograph my mother took recently while traveling in the UK and is a gift for her.” 1. by Fred M Tabajonda, Landscape Designer, Philippines “This sketch was done in pen and ink and washed with watercolour, This was conceived in an oriental design for a casual dining far east restaurant showing gazebos for sitting and wooden bridge over the lily pond.” – That’s this week’s Sketchy Saturday Top 10, congratulations to all of you who featured, you have came out on top of a very talented bunch of people. Check out the Sketchy Saturday official Facebook album and see literally 1,000′s of incredible sketches! Follow all the winning entries on our dedicated Sketchy Saturday Pinterest page. If you want to take part send your entries into us at office@landarchs.com Recommended reading:

• Sketching from the Imagination: An Insight into Creative Drawing by 3DTotal
• Architectural Drawing Course by Mo Zell

Article written by Scott D. Renwick Return to Homepage

Vinge Station, by Henning Larsen Architects, Vinge, Denmark A visit to the future Vinge, Denmark, train station will likely evoke the imagination of Star Wars rather than the tradition of Hogwarts. The design by Henning Larsen Architects is futuristic, visionary, and beautiful. The Danish studio won an architectural competition to design the S-train station that will form the chief transportation hub in the center of Vinge, a 350-hectare city to be built in the Frederikssund region north of Copenhagen. The S-train is a network of regional trains in the Copenhagen area. A team from Henning Larsen Architects, in cooperation with Tredje Natur, MOE A/S and the Irish Railway Procurement Agency, designed the proposal, which a competition jury called both visionary and beautiful.  While the station’s primary purpose is to connect Vinge to the regional public transit system, the undulating, circular hub is also designed to prevent the railway from dividing the town in two.

The Design of this Stunning Train Station Five international multi-disciplinary teams participated in the invitation-only architectural competition. Henning Larsen Architects had already created the master plan for the town, which will be the largest urban development project in Denmark to date and home to more than 20,000 inhabitants. The train station will connect the new city with neighboring regional areas, as well as Copenhagen, and is expected to be built by 2017 — ahead of the city’s completion in 2033. The train terminal will be sunken below ground level and accessed by an elliptical opening. The white, curved roof structure will dip to meet the platform level and rise to cantilever over the tracks, forming a bridge on either side of the opening. The structure will be terraced, to provide a recreational area leading to nearby parkland, with the train tracks threading out into channels between buildings on either side of the station concourse. Buildings of varying heights situated along the tracks are intended to integrate the station into the larger city infrastructure. The station will be situated at one end of a large strip of parkland that will run through the center of Vinge, forming a connection between the city and its rural setting. Relation Across the Rails One of the major challenges of the assignment was to design a station that creates connections in the city instead of dividing Vinge into two parts. The architectural team’s solution is a landscape feature that extends across the rails. In the middle of the landscape is a circular urban space that organically follows the surrounding landscape. The site extends over the rails and connects the city across the train tracks.

Ameliorating Recreational Dimensions Through a New Train Station

  “From the high-density environment of the city center, the architecture gradually transitions to lower, more open building typologies, scaling down the building stock towards the surrounding open landscape. The primary design goal has been to bring the surrounding scenery into the new city. Green areas within the urban context create breathing spaces, add a recreational dimension to the city — such as playing fields, urban parks, and wetlands — and ensure nature’s enduring presence in the city,” write Henning Larsen Architects. Related article:

• Copenhagen’s First Climate Resilient Neighbourhood
• Can Copenhagen Become the Best Cycling City in the World?
• Innovation in Water Management for Stunning Landscape Design

Formulation of an Integrated Town Space Henning Larsen Architects has also created the overall master plan for the town of Vinge. “We are very happy to be part of the first step of the development of Vinge by designing the train station and the urban space surrounding it. It is a symbolically strong beginning of a town development. Our idea is to create an integrated town space that connects the movements of the town and the landscape. In Vinge, the natural landscape becomes part of the town and you will be able to live in the countryside within the town,” explains Niels Edeltoft, architect and project manager at Henning Larsen Architects.

“It shows both courage and vision that our proposal to the central Vinge wins. We have in our studio always advocated that the city and the nature should be mixed, but we’ve never met the ambition as a visionary in terms of a builder, as we have in Vinge. Therefore, it is quite unique for us to win the competition, and we look forward (to) developing the proposal, both urban and natural qualities in the future, ” said Flemming Rafn Thomsen, founder and partner of landscape architecture studio Tredje Natur. See all the images in large via Roojoom:

Henning Larsen Architects is internationally recognized for its beautiful architectural works, including concert hall Harpa in Iceland, which won the prestigious Mies van der Rohe Award last year. The studio is also working on several projects in sustainable urban development. Henning Larsen Architects was founded by Henning Larsen in 1959, and over the years has designed many projects in Denmark and elsewhere in the world. The Vinge train station will be a hub for transportation and urban life once the city is fully developed, and the ultra modern look should fit in nicely within this city of the future. Recommended reading: 

• Urban Design by Alex Krieger
• Digital Drawing for Landscape Architecture by Bradley Cantrell

Article by Sha Sulaiman Return to Homepage

Pyramid Garden, a new space saving way to grow crops. In a world of big box stores, convenience shops, and fast food chains, it is easy to lose sight of where our food comes from. Generations ago, families worked the fields and tended to gardens day and night to produce fresh vegetables and herbs for daily meals and canning or preserving for future seasons. Today the trend is again on the rise but we face new obstacles and challenges. In today’s fast-paced, on-the-go, high-energy world, few individuals have the time necessary for intensive vegetable gardening. While many desire to grow their own fresh produce, they often do not have the time or space required to do so.

The Limitations of Growing Crops in Containers

  Container gardens have become one popular solution for those seeking to create a personal urban farm, but again there are limitations to container gardens. Some containers do not provide adequate space or drainage for vegetable plants and potted plants may still require weeding and fertilizing which can be time consuming. Even with pots of all shapes and sizes, those in a small city apartment may only have a few square feet to grow the desired variety of plants. The Pyramid Garden Solution The Pyramid Garden introduces an inventive solution to urban gardening for those who are lacking time and space. The planter is made of food grade polyethylene designed and coated to be UV resistant and long-lasting. Its design takes 4 identical panels with holes every 6 inches and arranges them in a pyramid form. WATCH: Pyramid Garden Greenhouse Tour This 4 foot by 4 foot configuration is ideal for sun and moisture requirements of plants and it allows for the highest possible density of plants in the least amount of space. In a 16 square foot area, a budding urban gardener can plant 136 plants. With so many spaces for plants, it allows for rotational crops, a large variety of plants, or planting in stages to increase the length of the harvest.

“The Pyramid Garden design can grow plants up to 30% faster with 80% less water” The Pyramid Garden works on a system of aeroponics. Aeroponics is “the process of growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use of soil or an aggregate medium.” The lack of soil eliminates the need for weeding saving gardeners time and energy. The Pyramid Garden design can grow plants up to 30% faster with 80% less water. Watering is a simple step of spraying the roots with nutrient rich water to encourage plant growth. Desire Breeds Innovation When founder and designer, Allan, had kids, he started to think seriously about ways to grow his own vegetables and herbs to provide safe and healthy food for his family. This need and desire for fresh produce drove him to develop the pyramid design prototype. With the success of the Pyramid Garden, he can harvest fresh vegetables in the dead of winter in Canada without needing to rely upon California growers shipping their goods across the country. He is also able to ensure the quality of the produce harvested and can monitor the use of any pesticides or insecticides. Related Articles:

• Landgrab City – Urban Farm
• Dublin Urban Farm: Interview with Paddy O’Kearney
• How to Provide Easy Access to Urban Agriculture in Over Populated Cities

800 plants, in just 32 square foot The Pyramid Garden has applications all across the board. There have been requests for 2 foot by 2 foot Pyramid Gardens for those in compact urban areas looking to grow food on balconies and patios. From the micro scale up to a macro scale, growers have even discussed verticalized vertical planters,’ which would involve placing the 4’x4’ Pyramid Gardens on pallet racks and stacking them at least three high.

 This would produce an even higher yield, approximately 800 plants, in just a 16 square foot area. The opportunities span from personal patios and outdoor deck spaces to indoor greenhouses and large warehouses for year around growing. A Green Solution to Environmental Problems The Pyramid Garden also has larger national and international social outreach opportunities. Drought ridden areas such as California may find this as a viable solution for growing crops with less water. This allows for farmers to continue to turn a profit and maintain their family businesses. Additionally, Pyramid Gardens may be deployed in areas that do not have adequate access to fresh produce. These outreach opportunities are in the works through a partnership that has been formed with an outside organization and Pyramid Garden. Who Wants Pyramid Garden?  Pyramid Garden has the attention of a wide range of people. From large commercial growers to city bound urban farmers, Pyramid Garden has developed a prototype meeting the needs of those trying to maximize the yield of vegetables, flowers, and herbs in a confined space. Research is still in the works through partnerships with local horticultural greenhouse colleges in Canada to test other plants that may be best suited for aeroponics production. In the meantime, the Pyramid Garden has already solved a very complex issue of providing a means and a way to grow produce in even the smallest of spaces, with very little time involved. Recommended Reading:

• The Essential Urban Farmer by Novella Carpenter
• Mini Farming: Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre by  Brett L. Markham

Article written by Rachel Kruse Return to Homepage

Key elements to consider when planning urban trees. We all know the importance of trees on the urban landscape. More than just decorative elements, they contribute to the city’s improvement in the social, cultural, economical, and of course, environmental levels. Due to the complexity of the city interaction, trees cannot simply be planted without any criteria – the relationship between the natural and the built environment can be tricky and some risks must be identified to be avoided. Here you have a guide to help you out. For a strategic planning of the urban forest, follow these 5 essential steps:

Choosing Urban Trees

  1. Evaluate The City’s Needs A direct way of evaluating the city’s needs is to measure environmental conditions and variables as they will be of great importance to assist decision makers. However, cities belong to people and therefore they must also be involved in the decision making process. It is of great importance to allow the community to take part in the urban planning as residents know the local needs better than anyone else. WATCH: Urban Forestry 24: From Street Trees to Sustainability–Science, Practice, Tools 2. Get Informed on The Benefits As said before, urban trees improve the urban environment in many levels. To name just a few, beneficial social aspects include sense of belonging and opportunity for human interaction; cultural include collective identity, economical include property value uplift, energy saving and attractive high street retail. The environmental aspects list is a bit longer, worth going into more detail:

• Shading: this is a passive cooling strategy of major importance, especially in tropical countries, as it blocks direct solar radiation so it won’t reach people, buildings and surfaces.
• Reduced air temperature: trees reduce the air temperature through a process called ‘evapotranspiration’, as they take the heat from the air to transform water from liquid to gas form.
• Higher air humidity: another benefit of evapotranspiration is the increase in air humidity, as the process results in loss of water (vapour) by the plant.
• Induced wind flow: lined trees can induce the wind flow by either blocking it, slowing it down or speeding it up, depending on the local needs.
• Pollution filter: tree leaves can filter toxins in the air, improving its quality. Also, trees help reduce noise which is another sort of pollution.

WATCH: Why Trees? 3. Choose The Species Correctly We cannot provide a list of the most suitable trees for the urban environment as it varies from country to country. But here are some aspects you must pay attention to:

• Climate: Choose trees that are appropriate for the local climate, even better, choose native species.
• Soil: it is important to analyze the soil condition before planting, correcting it if necessary for healthy plants for a long time.
• Water: Respect the tree’s needs, if you cannot provide plenty of water choose species which tolerate drought.
• Toxicity: Make sure the trees you choose are safe for people, especially children.
• Fruits: An urban orchard is great but avoid trees with large fruits as they can cause accidents.

4. Respect The Existing Infrastructure Take a holistic approach when designing the urban forest. Respect the existing urban elements so both natural and built environment can safely co-exist:

• Take in consideration the tree’s typology; the canopy must not obstruct vehicle traffic and pedestrian walk ability; make sure the tree size matches the sidewalk and street width.
• Shallow roots may conflict with pavements or underground infrastructure, which may cause disruptions in service.
• Although there is a favorable presumption towards large canopy trees, they should not damage powerlines or buildings,
• And don’t forget to provide adequate distance between trees.

Related Articles: 

• 8 Amazing Facts About Trees That You Didn’t Know
• Street Tree Survival Guide
• 8 Awesome Reasons to Use Trees in The Landscape That You Didn’t Know!

WATCH: Benefits of Urban Forests 5. The  Importance of Maintenance If all the procedures of choosing and planting was done properly, the urban trees will demand little maintenance: about five visits in the first year and just two or three visits in the following ones. The maintenance program should include weeding, pest control, watering (if necessary) and pruning, as well as soil renewal and grid replacement (or any other sort of protection element). WATCH: Residential Street Tree Maintenance — In a financial cost-benefit analysis, the implementation of trees and green areas in the townscape is one of the best strategies to improve the quality of life of city dwellers. They are relatively low-cost and have a great positive effect on the urban environment – if done properly – hence, it should be widely encouraged by local organizations. For more specific information on urban forestry, please refer to your local guide (generally provided by your municipality or city council). Recommended Reading:

• Urban Trees: A Practical Management Guide by Steve Cox
• The Urban Tree Book: An Uncommon Field Guide for City and Town by Arthur Plotnik

Article written by Julia Lucchese Return to Homepage