Modern Outdoors

Landscape Designs

August 20, 2008

Dunescape for a fragile sand dune ecology in Long Island, New York

This award-winning dunescape in Long Island is eco-friendly, renewable and a great reminder that we are partners with nature. This Dirtworks, PC Landscape Architecture project took home the Residential Design Award of Honor from the ASLA, for this innovative and captivating sand dune oasis, which reminds us of the fragile ecosystems on our planet.

"The sustainability of this project is quite impressive and the landscape architect is to be commended. The materials and plants are modest, yet powerful in their simple gestures. The wood going into grasses provides useful interplay. The deck is innovative and appears to be dropped into a moving landscape." - 2008 Professional Awards Jury.

An oasis was created in the middle of this sand and rock haven. The beach house is enclosed with numerous private, outdoor living spaces designed for a minimum impact on the surrounding sand dunes. Cedar, a wood that endures without splintering and does not need any treatment, is both durable and eco-friendly, ensuring that no chemicals will leach through the wood, since it is pure. The Cedar is smoothed for the most comfortable surface for little and big toes alike, to walk along the mazes around the house. Lounge chairs are placed amongst the long grasses to provide a quiet and peaceful place to read or catch some rays of sun. A sitting area providing a table and chairs is the perfect spot to catch up with old friends or play a round of cards, while adding a splash of colour with deep blue seating pillows. Because of the native plants surrounding the beach house and decks, minimal care is needed, and it adds to the natural oasis feeling of the dunescape.

August 19, 2008

Red Ribbon Tanghe River Park in China - eco-friendly landscape architecture

The Red Ribbon made its mark in China’s with its award-winning Tanghe River Park. The park sits on the outskirts of the evolving city of Qinguangdao, in a river corridor. Before Turenscape got a hold of this land, it was littered with trash and deserted irrigation structures. Turenscape was able to preserve the environmental treasures while integrating ecological principles. They created a ribbon of red steel that runs throughout the park, parallel to the river. The red ribbon is both functional and fashionable providing seating, and plenty of lighting and plan displays. The red is bright and inviting while symbolizing China’s joy and prosperity towards preserving the environment. The Tanghe River Park won the 2007 ASLA Design Honor Award and received first place in the national competition.

19 Aug 2008 | Landscape Designs | Comments (0)

July 24, 2008

Sustainable Landscape Design by Architect Pamela Burton & Company, Malibu, California

It’s no wonder Pamela Burton & Company received the 2008 Residential Design Award of Honor from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). Pamela Burton & Company met the challenge of creating a sustainable and eye-pleasing landscape at a modern, oceanfront house that presented little opportunity for vegetation. It resulted in exquisite and an eco-friendly design. With dry beach sand as the ground cover, drought-tolerant grass and plants were situated in a manner that accentuates the open-concept layout. The plants act as both a border and a screen, to block out unwanted views. The ornamental grass simulates the California hillside, while the bright yellow Kangaroo Paws and Mexican Marigolds catch the eyes of all, reminding residents they can have a beautiful yard while using minimal water for maintenance. Pamela Burton & Company

Photos: Bruce Botnick and Pamela Burton & Company

An informal sandy walk connects the Main House entry with the Lap Pool and Guest House. A low maintenance, drought-tolerant planting palette reduces the carbon footprint.

May 17, 2008

Lanscape with a pool by B & B Pool and Spa

Whether your backyard is used for formal get-togethers or rowdy pool parties, B & B Pool and Spa will landscape a haven to suite your style. This transcendent garden retreat is the perfect hide-away to spend endless hours in. Bright pink lilies accent the lush greeneries composed of ground cover, shrubs and trees. An avid gardener will appreciate the mulch that is used to complement the landscaping. While it adds more interest to the gardens, it also helps contain moisture and prevent weed and grass growth. Flecks of yellow and brown in the gray-toned flagstone patio are highlighted with splashes of yellow perennials in the surroundings, while encasing the azure-colored, Gunite, free-form pool. The sounds from the natural-looking waterfall add even more luxury to this vista. Indulge all your senses in the essence of serenity with a backyard from B & B Pool and Spa Center.

17 May 2008 | Landscape Designs | Comments (0)