Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 75 - 2025 i Landscape & Urban Design

The Rise of Green Roofs in Urban Design Green roofs are an increasingly common feature if not an essential part of the urban landscape, delivering benefits that range from biodiversity gains to improved thermal performance. These systems fall into two broad categories: extensive roofs, typically low-maintenance and intended for ecological value, and intensive green roofs which are deeper, landscaped environments, often designed for human use. Design Complexity and Irrigation Needs Projects like the landmark new development in King’s Cross are showcasing just how multifunctional these spaces can be. However, their long-term success depends on more than just the planting selection. Irrigation plays a vital role, particularly where deeper substrates and diverse species require consistent moisture to establish and thrive. When Irrigation Is Essential At Waterscapes, we work closely with design…

Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) is returning to GroundsFest in 2025 to showcase the latest in turf solutions, digital technology and line marking innovation. After two successful years at the event, OAS will be exhibiting both outdoors on stand RB140 and indoors in Hall 2 on stand 20. Visitors can expect to see OAS’s comprehensive range of products and services, aimed at the fine turf, sports and grounds care sectors. With the largest dedicated team and unrivalled product portfolio, OAS continues to support customers with practical, innovative, and sustainable solutions backed by decades of experience. Outdoor focus – line marking, robotics and digital tools Outside on stand RB140, OAS will display a wide selection of line marking machinery, from pedestrian spray markers to the latest GPS-guided robotic systems. The popular TinyLineMarker…

Which paving option is more durable? If durability is your main concern, both porcelain and sandstone will serve you well, but porcelain does have an edge. Porcelain paving is made from compressed clay with an image printed onto it to resemble natural stone. The slabs are fired at a high temperature, producing a tough, resilient material with low moisture absorption. Porcelain is a great option if you use your outdoor space heavily for entertaining. Sandstone is created naturally over thousands of years. It’s tough and thick, ideal for patios and driveways. However, porcelain has the edge in terms of durability. Which is easier to maintain, porcelain or sandstone? Thanks to its resistance to moss, mould, and stains, porcelain is easy to maintain. It only requires the occasional wipe clean to…

In high-end residential design, the swimming pool has evolved. Today, luxury pools are emerging as architectural centrepieces, integrated from the earliest stages of planning and becoming defining features of beautiful landscape design projects. This shift reflects a broader trend in how homeowners are reimagining their outdoor spaces. No longer an afterthought, the pool is now a focal point that anchors the entire design narrative of a property. From infinity edges that blur into the horizon to sculptural forms that echo the geometry of the home, pools are being designed to harmonise with both architecture and nature. “Clients are increasingly viewing their pools as an extension of their lifestyle and aesthetic,” says Alex Kemsley, Managing Director of Compass Pools by Waterstream. “We’re seeing pools integrated into the master plan from day…

Supplying the trade with high quality large trees, specimen shrubs, instant hedging and screening plants for over forty five years, Wykeham Mature Plants are experts in supplying mature stock for instant transformations, tailored to the site conditions and to the requirements of your business. The 150 acre nursery is located in a frost pocket near Scarborough; the Yorkshire-grown stock is guaranteed to be hardy and, as a nursery that has achieved the prestigious Plant Healthy certification, you can rest assured that it is free from imported pests and diseases. At Wykeham you really can buy time, such as large shrubs for instant effect, large trees, including fruit trees, or instant hedging or screening for privacy and security, giving any garden or planting scheme maturity which would otherwise take years to…

Since 1963, Civic Trees have been at the forefront of tree relocation throughout the UK, from importing the very first Vermeer tree spade into Europe, to designing and constructing the Newman Frame which is now used worldwide. Civic Trees are always looking to pioneer new techniques that aid the relocation of trees. Tree relocation is a concept that involves uprooting trees from one location and transplanting them to another. With current events surrounding environmental issues, relocating trees is even more important now than ever before. By relocating trees instead of cutting them down, we can preserve nature’s beauty while also promoting sustainability. We are proud of our reputation for efficient, cost effective and reliable tree relocation throughout the UK. You can be confident that through our exemplary commitment to staff…

Boulder Park, a 13,000m2 community park in Ji’nan, incorporates large boulders - a natural material symbolizing eternity - as the central design element. These boulders integrate with the park’s functional and experiential activities. Boulders placed over a sandpit are transformed into climbing and resting play structures; stones in the shallow creek can become part of the water play installation. Additionally, a massive rock cave adventure space is constructed using advanced 3D-printed concrete technology. Designed by XISUI Design, it integrates children’s play areas with water features and natural landscapes, offering a space for intergenerational interaction and community engagement. Design background Boulder Park occupies the central area of Yunwan Garden in Ji’nan. This 13,000m2 space functions as a comprehensive community park combining a children’s playground, shallow stream water activities, family interaction, and…

At Stoneworld, natural stone is at the heart of inspired landscape and urban design. From striking staircases and terraces to elegant pathways and architectural features, our stone solutions combine craftsmanship, durability, and timeless appeal. With an expert onsite workshop, we can produce fully bespoke pieces to meet the exacting specifications of architects, designers, and developers, while also offering a curated range of standard sizes for seamless integration. Every project is supported by our knowledgeable sales team, who provide guidance on material selection, finishes, and practical considerations, ensuring designs are both visually compelling and buildable. Stoneworld’s meticulous approach brings character and refinement to outdoor spaces, allowing landscapes and urban environments to endure and impress. By combining bespoke flexibility, expert craftsmanship, and dedicated support, we help design professionals deliver projects that are…

The initial premise of Loures Riverfront was to complete the intermunicipal pedestrian and cycling continuity, connecting Lisbon to Vila Franca de Xira, and to consolidate an important strategic plan that aims to implement a continuous route along the Tagus Riverfront in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. It was also intended to encourage the connection from Loures’ urban areas, isolated by roads and railway infrastructures. As a result, this pedestrian and cycling route constitutes an important mobility infrastructure with a significant impact on the current daily commuter matrix, contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions and positively affecting the lives of the communities. An analysis of the project area revealed a surprising landscape: a mosaic of natural ecosystems in the vicinity of a highly urbanized zone. Just minutes away from densely populated…

A landmark project in South Africa is highlighting how synthetic turf can be used to enable freshwater recycling. Two ‘Cruyff Courts’ are simultaneously providing a high-quality playing surface while integrating an advanced water collection and filtration system under the field, providing the local community with fresh potable water. The installation of the courts is part of a wider initiative by the Cruyff Foundation, supporting various sports endeavours for children, and young people with special needs. The two new fields in Orange Farm, near Johannesburg, bring the total number of Cruyff Courts to 10 in the country. The investment and innovation come as South Africa is currently grappling with one of the most severe droughts in recent history, affecting approximately 61 million people across Southern Africa. [1] The prolonged drought has…

Drawing on decades of outdoor lighting expertise, Thorn Lighting has launched an exciting urban solution, created in collaboration with Scandinavian studio Lyhne Design. The new Avenue family consists of four product types: post-top, lateral arm, lateral post-top and suspended, providing the flexibility to meet the varied needs of lighting schemes for urban spaces in a consistent and connected design language. Avenue was developed through close collaboration between Lyhne Design and Thorn’s in-house technical teams and customer base. The result is a versatile product family that caters to many different urban lighting scenarios, including parks, pathways, pedestrian zones, car parks, residential areas and urban roads. A key outcome of this new method of development is Thorn’s ‘Quad’ modular platform (patent pending). The modular design simplifies maintenance, upgrades, refurbishment, and eventual disassembly…

Sports surfaces specialist SIS Pitches has made a multi-million-pound investment into a fleet of 16 new hybrid pitch stitching machines. Developed to meet growing demand for faster installations and greater configurability, the new state-of-the-art machines feature patented technologies that increase the rate and efficiency of fibre injection on grass-based sports surfaces. Once installed these fibres then accelerate recovery times and reinforce a playing surface by promoting stronger, healthier root systems. The investment will allow SIS Pitches to ease the operational pressure on multi-use stadia, whose narrowing timeframes to install hybrid grass pitches between matches and non-sporting events represents a major challenge. This need for speed and flexibility – without compromising in quality - has been driven by clubs and franchises around the world seeking to maximise stadium revenue by hosting…

GroundsFest returns to Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on 9-10 September 2025, and the countdown has begun. Registration is open - and entry is completely free. Now in its third year, GroundsFest has quickly carved out a unique place in the industry calendar. It’s not just an exhibition; it’s a dynamic blend of hands-on demonstrations, hundreds of exhibitors, exclusive product launches, CPD-accredited learning, and live entertainment - all with a community atmosphere that sets it apart from any other show. Hundreds of Brands, All in One Place For two days, Stoneleigh Park will be home to hundreds of the biggest and most respected names in groundscare, landscaping, arboriculture, and horticulture. From established global brands to innovative start-ups, every corner of the industry is represented. The show floor is the perfect place to…

Established in 1900, J. A. Jones & Sons is celebrating 125 years of growing in Southport. From humble beginnings, the company has matured into one of the UK’s leading wholesale nurseries with an enviable international reputation. Based over five sites in Southport, our production includes over 105 acres of field grown trees and 7,000 peat-free container grown and air pot trees. Given our location, and being ‘Plant Healthy’ certified, we’re able to grow a range of OPM free Oak trees ranging in size from 8-10cm to 16-18cm girth, all of which are freely transportable throughout the country by our own transport or selected haulier. In addition to our tree stock, we also grow over 25 acres of shrubs, perennials and hedging to ensure we’re able to offer a complete ‘one…

Give your garden project and instant uplift with ready to plant hedges. Suitable for all garden types, both commercial and domestic. At Readyhedge you can choose from: Metre long lengths Various heights – from 30cm tall to 200cm tall Available in Readyhedge bags or Readyhedge troughs Our hedging expertise spans 20 years+, producing over 50,000 metres of instant hedging per year in over 35 varieties. This includes individual plants, low and high panels and even screens. Wide variety of hedges Discover the large selection of evergreen, deciduous and mixed native hedging available. There are quick growing hedges, semi evergreen, formal hedges, and even low maintenance hedges to choose from! Expertly Grown Readyhedge ready to plant hedges are grown to be fully mature, under the watchful eye of our hedging experts.…

For this year’s Flower Show at Wentworth Woodhouse, he helped create a garden designed to enrich the senses – using products donated by essential materials provider Breedon. The RHS project, which won Gold medals for Best in Show and Best Construction, reflects a growing industry trend of organisations carrying out ‘sensory audits’. 2025 is fast becoming the year of the accessible garden, a leading landscaping consultant has said – after a sensory-rich garden he created for the RHS Flower Show at Wentworth Woodhouse took home a trio of awards. Gareth Wilson worked alongside renowned horticultural designer Paul Hervey-Brookes to construct a garden in partnership with the RNIB that invited people without visual impairments to experience the world through the eyes of someone with sight loss. Described as “thought provoking and…

Design team unveil new pedestrian and cycle bridge design to boost connectivity and celebrate Brent’s industrial heritage. New images of the planned pedestrian and cycle bridge across the Grand Union Canal in Alperton have been unveiled, as work continues to improve accessibility and connectivity in the Brent community, as part of a wider £5 million regeneration plan. Images released by the project’s design team, AECOM, the world’s trusted infrastructure consultants, show more clearly how the bridge will look once complete. The sculptural design will provide a more direct east-west pedestrian and cycle network in and around Alperton, connecting the Grand Union development to the towpath on the southwestern side of the canal, the Abbey Estate and Park Royal employment hub. The bridge features a gently curving structure with slender steel…

A major refurbishment of the car parking facilities at a renowned historic estate in Stratford-upon-Avon has been successfully completed using Terram Bodpave™ 40, a high-strength, sustainable surface solution made from 100% recycled materials. As part of broader visitor enhancement works carried out in 2022, the Grade-listed Tudor estate, set within 180 acres of landscaped deer park, required a significant upgrade to its previously unsurfaced car parks. The project aimed to deliver a durable, all-weather parking surface capable of supporting increasing visitor numbers while remaining sensitive to the estate’s historic character and surrounding environment. Before the refurbishment, the estate’s gravel car parks were increasingly unable to cope with the rising visitor traffic and seasonal weather conditions. During wetter months, surface erosion, standing water and reduced parking capacity created both operational inefficiencies…

The popularity of cement free brush-in grouts for grouting in porcelain and natural stone paving has grown exponentially over the last decade, but they do bring with them a specific issue concerning amine blush. Amine blush is a greasy or waxy film that can form on tiles that have been installed using a cement free brush-in jointing compound. It’s caused by a reaction between the amine hardener in the epoxy and moisture and carbon dioxide in the air during curing. This reaction can lead to a hazy, cloudy or white appearance on the surface of the paver. On porcelain pavers, if pre-grout protection has not been applied, the process of squeegeeing the grout across the surface and into the joints can result in some of the ingredients getting caught up…

One of the features that makes so many of Britain’s public spaces a delight to explore is the flowers and foliage that adorn our local areas. Whether it’s vibrant perennials in hanging baskets dotted around a city centre, or outdoor seating that incorporates seasonal blooms at a local railway station, the floral displays we see on our daily commutes and holiday amblings alike can make an ordinary day just that bit brighter. Despite its environmental benefits, ongoing maintenance can make outdoor street furniture a costly investment. To avoid having to replace benches that have rusted before their time, or the staff costs of regularly watering planters, it’s important to begin by choosing quality, long-lasting street furniture. That’s where Amberol can help. Sustainable All our products are rotationally moulded using a…

For two decades, Pictorial Meadows has been successfully supplying, installing and maintaining large-scale meadows which transform urban landscapes into vibrant, environmentally-conscious spaces. This article delves into a variety of urban projects by Pictorial Meadows, exploring their approach in creating resilient and engaging nature-based solutions for diverse urban environments. Meadows for Urban Brownfield Sites With urbanisation on the rise, there is a pressing need for vibrant and cost-effective landscaping solutions that transform brownfield sites into aesthetically-pleasing spaces. Temporary meadows, composed primarily of annuals, have emerged as an effective solution. Pictorial Meadows’ products have been used on over 150 hectares of development land, bringing not only colour and ecological benefits, but also effectively reducing antisocial behaviour. Research from the University of Sheffield validates the positive impact of Pictorial Meadows, fostering heightened feelings…

To maintain clear, healthy lakes and ponds in the face of rising climates, Otterbine pond aerators are the unparalleled choice. Following the warmest spring on record, the summer of 2025 has seen UK waters dramatically affected by the high heat. Oxygen deficiencies in ponds and lakes led to multiple cases of mass fish kills and unattractive, foul-smelling water – making national headlines as it discouraged visitors from venues nationwide. Reesink Hydro-Scapes, the exclusive UK and Ireland distributor of Otterbine aerators, provides cost-effective solutions that prevent oxygen deficiencies and help ponds and lakes flourish. From surface spray aspirators that deliver vertical circulation to horizontal aspirators for lakes up to 12ft in depth, Otterbine’s best-in-class pond aeration systems are recognised for improving water quality. Oxygen deficiencies are common when water maintenance doesn’t…

The Cinderella incineration toilet, ideal for off-grid sites such as glamping tents, shepherd huts, bothies etc., continues to grow in popularity, expanding the toilet’s original success in Norway and Sweden. LeeSan, who are part of the Pump Technology Ltd Group, are the UK Cinderella distributors. They offer sanitation solutions for leisure, marine and welfare and have recently appointed a number of Cinderella authorised agents across the UK. For customers this means that they can find a local company who they can rely upon for installation and maintenance. This year has also seen the introduction of the diesel powered Cinderela, adding to the option of electric and gas. The diesel unit is ideal for sites such as huts, campervans and canal boats. The Cinderella incineration toilet looks very similar to a…

Lumena Lights Ltd proudly launched six cutting-edge outdoor lighting products this summer, designed to enhance landscapes with style, sustainability, and durability. Several of these will be showcased at GroundsFest 2025 in September at stand L154, offering landscape architects and designers innovative solutions for diverse projects. Excitingly, new solar bollard lights and solar fairy lights are also in development, set to debut soon. The Tectona [fig.1], a popular 0.7m teak wood bollard light (240V), now offers a new finish with 316 stainless steel louvres alongside its classic brass louvre variant. Its natural teak and glare-free downward light make it ideal for garden pathways and commercial spaces. The Ember [fig.2], a striking 0.6m 240V bollard light with ‘rusty’ effect appearance. Crafted from Corten Steel, the finish forms a protective patina layer, with…

Welcome to the SCAG Jackal: a Stand-On Mini Skid-Steer. This is a new addition to the SCAG range – extending the capability of SCAG products for professional grounds maintenance. The Stand-On format draws on the technology of the highly successful “V-Ride” stand-on mower range. In addition to the lean-on cushion there are side cushions to protect the operator on the sort of terrain these machines will be working on. The control panel is also typical SCAG with clear information, all within easy reach, plus there is joystick control for drive and bucket. The unit is designed to be of use with a wide range of forestry and clearance attachments which will be available to the customer from our approved source. The Jackal will be available with various engine options, 7”…

At GroundsFest 2025, Avant Tecno (Stand OSA270) will be showcasing two major new product launches – the Avant e727 fully electric compact loader and the Leguan 265, the most advanced spider lift in the Leguan Lifts range. But that’s not all – visitors will also have the chance to test their skills in the Avant National Pro Challenge, a high-energy operator competition with great prizes up for grabs. The Avant e727 – Fully Electric, Fully Capable Avant’s new e727 compact loader is designed to meet the demands of modern construction, landscaping, agriculture, and equestrian applications. With a 27 kWh Avant OptiTemp® battery, up to 5.5 hours of operating time, and a 1400 kg lift capacity, this fully electric machine matches the power and speed of its diesel counterpart – but…

Lawn scarifying is the process of removing thatch and moss - the layer of dead grass, roots, and debris that builds up on your lawn. Over time, this layer blocks water, air, and nutrients from reaching the soil and roots, leading to poor lawn health. Using a scarifier helps aerate the soil, stimulate new grass growth, and improve overall lawn drainage and resilience. When should you scarify your lawn? The best time to scarify a lawn is during periods of active growth: Spring (April to May) Autumn (September to October)Spring (April to May) Avoid scarifying in summer (especially during droughts) or winter when grass is dormant How to scarify Follow these steps to get the best results when scarifying your lawn: Mow the grass short Set up your scarifier Scarify…

Our love for wood dates back centuries when our ancestors used the material to create not only tools but also sophisticated wooden structures. This passion for wood has never gone away as we still see it being used all around us daily in everything from decking, garden furniture and garden buildings. Wood is a timeless and versatile material and offers a stunning array of colours that often goes unnoticed. It can exhibit a wide range of colours from black, violet, dark red, reddish brown, to pale yellow., each wood species has its own unique colour palette. Applying the correct finish will fire up these natural colours giving a unique look. New Osmo Garden Furniture Oil is made up of a combination of sunflower oil, thistle oil, soya oil and hard…

At Wyevale Nurseries, we’re proud to be part of the fabric of British horticulture for over 95 years. As one of the UK’s largest and most established growers of hedging and transplant stock, our legacy is built on a deep understanding of the land, the landscape industry, and the evolving needs of our customers. We’re proud to be one of the biggest producers of 1+1 transplants in the country – a core part of our offering for decades. These young plants form the backbone of countless woodland, hedgerow, and rewilding projects across the UK. Our stock is carefully raised to thrive, thanks to the use of selected native species and provenance-specific seed that supports biodiversity and resilience in planting schemes. We grow plants with purpose. From hedging for highways and…

How do you celebrate the spirit of a town in a high-profile work of public art? This was the challenge presented to designer Stuart Melrose and artist Kev Munday when they were commissioned to create a stunning backlit mural made from HIMACS solid surface for the new £850million Station Hill development in Reading. A key feature of a £1.5 million series of artworks, devised by cultural placemaking agency Futurecity, and commissioned and funded by Lincoln MGT JV, the mural is part of a public realm art trail across the two acres linking the station with the town centre, and is intended to both reflect and enhance the area’s cultural legacy. Having local connections, plus experience of the kind of material that could both capture the essence of the design and…

In 2023, Street Design were specified to manufacture and supply the raised planter walling and seating for a new residential development in Edgbaston, Birmingham. Working with Winvic, the contractor and Fira, the project landscape architects, Street Design developed the manufacture details for the aluminium raised planter walling. Podium raised planter walling A first floor podium formed the main part of the project with 3 large, shaped, raised planting areas with porcelain paving and aluminium deck areas between the planters. The podium build up consisted of; a plastic egg crate drainage layer with a geotextile membrane on top, allowing the planter walling panels to be assembled, creating the raised planting areas. Aluminium ground plates and cross brace straps ensured the walling remained vertical during the build and fill procedures. The planter…

Raby Castle’s recent landscape design scheme and remodelled 18th century Walled Gardens have achieved second place in the prestigious 2025 European Garden Awards. The achievement for the County Durham destination was in the Management or Development of a Historic Park or Garden category, with the first prize going to the Promenades de Reims in Reims, France. A fellow UK nominee, the South Cliff Gardens, was also awarded second place alongside Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. Since 2010, around 140 winners from 23 countries have received an award from the European Garden Award. Most of these have been recognised for their exceptional contributions to the maintenance and development of historic gardens, contemporary garden design, and exemplary climate adaptation initiatives. The award acknowledged both the remodelling of the Walled Gardens, led by…

Bring gardens alive and create an exterior dining space to hang an outdoor chandelier or multiple outdoor pendants so that your customers can enjoy more alfresco dining when warmer weather permits. See our latest range or Rattan Style ceiling fixtures including the Lindendale pendant featured. For the hottest days and nights install outdoor ceiling fans to provide a gentle breeze above a seating or dining area so that your clients can enjoy the great outdoors for longer. Be sure to specify pathway lighting in each garden design to show the way to doors or a car in safety. Elstead Lighting has a great range of pedestals, bollards and lamp-posts to provide outdoor decorative lighting solutions; including a Coastal Collection with fixtures suitable for saline conditions, all of which have no…

Chosen by O.E.M’s & end users the world over, Carlstar’s (formerly Carlisle) groundcare tyre range encompasses sizes, fitments and specifications to suit almost every make, model and application of groundcare machine on the market. From pedestrian mowers and hand powered equipment, to golf equipment, bank and threshing mowers, zero turn mowers, stadium maintenance equipment & compact tractors, Carlstar have fitments and patterns to suit all scenarios and Tyre-Line are proud to have been importing and distributing their products for over 30 years. With an ever-expanding product range, and with sizes starting at just 4” rim size, Carlstar’s specialist groundcare range of tyres boasts well known pattern names including Turf Saver, Turf Trac R/S, Turf CTR, AT101, Super Lug, Ultra Trac, Sawtooth Turf Pro and Fast Trax to name but a…

At Russell Play, we’ve spent over 30 years designing play spaces that bring people together. From housing developments and public realm projects to schools and community spaces, we create purposeful, inclusive environments that leave a lasting impression. As one of the UK’s most experienced playground specialists, our focus is simple: safe, inclusive, and well-designed play for every age and ability. We work with house builders, architects, councils, schools, visitor attractions, and community groups, offering either a full design-and-build service or expert support on the play element of a wider scheme. Your Expert Partners in Play Our strength lies in adapting to each site, turning challenges into well-considered spaces where children and families genuinely want to be. With decades of collaboration across sectors, we balance design integrity, technical precision, and user…

Nothing enlivens a project like adding water! Discover its magic at SPATEX 2026. From water features, saunas, steam rooms, swimming pools, spas, wellness suites, hot tubs, ice baths and enclosures – the UK’s only dedicated water leisure expo has it all, and more! Free to attend, and open to all, the expo runs from Tuesday 3rd to Thursday 5th February at the Coventry Building Society Arena. Seven reasons why you should attend SPATEX 2026 1. It’s a special 30th anniversary edition – the biggest SPATEX to date, it has sold out of exhibition space some six months early. With more products than ever on display, this is not a year to miss. 2. Unique showcase - view and compare a host of new innovations in a fast-moving market. With over…