The 28-acre site is part of an existing master planned resort community. The golf course and lake were existing. The owner wanted water gardens and had in mind tropical gardens with artificial rocks and rope bridges. The designers convinced the owner that a concept that recalled ancient South American themes was more appropriate for the desert. Lines of date palms mitigate a massive building and extend into the landscape, framing views to the mountains and creating garden rooms under the palms and between them. An aqueduct, water temple and pavilions provide an armature from which water can fall and create a second level pedestrian experience. These elements also provide for bars, waterslides and spas. In addition to the water gardens, six courtyards provide a variety of spaces for lawn games, quiet gardens, entry and arrivals courts. With the exception of the existing lake and the owner’s requirement for 20,000 square feet of swimming pools, water use is minimized. Lawn was used only where needed as a space for outdoor activities. Other plant materials are desert species or drought tolerant. Water features are in the Moorish tradition of narrow, shallow canals, low volume clear water jets and small gravity spouts.
The Address Residence Dubai
The Address Residence is centrally located in Dubai’s Burj Opera District, adjacent to the Burj Khalifa and Lake, and along new waterfront retail development. In this fast-paced environment, the Address Dubai offers unparalleled luxury that inspires rest and relaxation. Whether you are a resident enjoying the pool with family, an art aficionado strolling in th...
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Triple Bay
The guest and resident experience at the Four Seasons Resort Triple Bay is rooted in the user’s renewal, achieved through restorative moments and total immersion in the local environment. The elegant architecture is nestled within lush landscapes, which serve as the luxurious, connective fabric of the overall destination, uniting land and sea along the H...
Bishops Lodge
Bishop’s Lodge Resort is a 66-acre parcel situated along valleys and ridges in the high New Mexican desert, four miles from downtown Santa Fe, known for its history, natural beauty, outdoor activities, and isolated location. The core of the resort is composed of a number of individual lodge-style buildings, along with the historically significant 150+-ye...
Kyoto Hotel
This project transforms an old elementary school site into an iconic destination for visitors and community. SWA reinterpreted the traditions and culture of Kyoto and proposed a poetic landscape design for this former schoolyard, transforming it into a welcoming community garden and courtyard.
The courtyard, as a public space, is designed simply, provid...