Perched atop a two-story structure, towered over by a connecting residential high rise and surrounded by studio apartments, this unique urban pine forest stands in a bed of low-hanging fog and reaches to the clear skies above. One hundred and one white pines, planted in a loose formation of elliptical mounds, seem cast adrift in a sea of washed river stone. Dwarf mugo pines cover each mound like a carpet with raised Corten steel edges mediating the pine and gravel dialogue. This minimalist mono-culture of a landscape is a poetic distillation—both sample and symbol—of the peace and repose to be found in the great pine forests of the world. Whether standing in the middle of it, or simply viewing it from afar, residents can enjoy the year-round display of lush greenery; wooded decks outside the residents’ lounge at the forest floor offer a closer view of the varied topography, as well as fresh mugo pine scent from the forest’s understory.
Fuzhou Vanke City
Central Lake Forms Spine for Recreational Living
The Yongtai residential project, located inside the Red Cliff Scenic Area, borders the Dazhang River and consists of a 45-hectare watershed area surrounded by 12 small hills. It is part of an overall development that features a boutique hotel, a shopping street, clubhouses, residential high-rises, townhou...
Zakin Residence
SWA worked closely with the client and architect in siting the house to maximize views and preserve opportunities in which to develop the landscape. The varied program for the landscape included a small family vineyard, a multi-use field, flower gardens, fountains, terraces, a koi pond, swimming pool and spa, tennis courts, courtyards, a heli-pad and guest par...
Alexander Residence
The elements of the site program for this residence are relatively simple: a large pool and deck area without fencing; a large lawn area for children’s play; perennial gardens; concealed parking; and native plantings included in a playful manner. Since the dune height precluded any ocean views from the natural elevation of the site or the ground floor spaces, ...
Sky Terrace at the Grand Millenium
Located on a penthouse located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, the terrace offers stunning panoramic views of Midtown, Central Park, Broadway, the East River, and the Hudson River. The design takes advantage of this prime location with glass parapets and low planters for unhindered views.
Cantilevered ten feet above the deck is the main feature of the t...