Top 5 landscape design trends in premium projects in the UAE: the experience of Studia 54

Landscape as part of architecture

One of the key features of premium projects in the UAE by Studia 54 is the seamless integration of architecture and landscape. This approach ensures both visual coherence and functional unity of the space. For instance, in the Etherstone Garden project in Dubai, the landscape became an extension of the architectural lines: smooth pathways, a rotunda, and art objects, much like the residence’s facades, adhere to Vaastu principles, creating a harmonious environment. On the facade, a brass sculpture is organically integrated into a greenery-filled niche, enhancing the building’s aesthetic while blending natural and architectural elements into a unified composition. This technique transforms the grounds into an extension of the living space, where the boundary between interior and exterior dissolves.

Water as a key element

In a hot climate, water transforms into both an architectural material and an engineering component. In our Villa Aqua project, an innovative concept was realized: the building, elevated on stilts, appears to levitate above a system of mirror-like pools. This serves as both a visual technique and a well-considered climatic system. The water surface reduces the temperature around the structure by 5-7°C. Pathways made of light-colored stone, designed following the principle of a coastal labyrinth, reflect solar rays and prevent overheating of the surfaces.

In our Villa Stingray project on Palm Jumeirah, vines and palms frame the building, forming a bioclimatic facade where the vegetation serves as natural sun protection and aids in thermal regulation. Artificial waterfalls, beyond their aesthetic function, act as natural air humidifiers, creating a microclimate with higher humidity in the relaxation areas. The glazed lounge pavilion with views of the Persian Gulf reduces stress, improves cognitive function, and, of course, inspires!

In Etherstone Garden, we employed the principle of "plant layers" — from tall olive trees to low decorative shrubs, creating a complex ecosystem. Drought-resistant species of local flora are expertly combined with adapted exotic species — this approach allowed us to reduce water consumption by 40% compared to traditional solutions.

Engineering for the desert climate

Creating a sustainable environment in the extreme climate of the UAE demands innovative engineering solutions. The key challenge is to establish a self-sufficient ecosystem capable of withstanding high temperatures, sandstorms, and water scarcity.

Studia 54 frequently employs automated systems. Sensors continuously monitor microclimatic parameters: surface temperature, humidity, UV index, and dust concentration. Real-time data is integrated into the smart home system for automatic adjustments to all engineering systems. For example, when temperatures rise to critical levels, misting systems activate and nighttime lighting modes engage to reduce heat load.

Materials

For terrace surfacing, we recommend using light-colored stone: travertine, limestone, or porcelain tile. These materials visually cool the space and maintain comfort even under scorching sun. They possess high reflective properties, reducing heat absorption by 30-40%.

The role of light in the landscape

Programmable lighting scenarios allow for a complete transformation of spatial perception depending on the time of day or specific events. Dynamic illumination of water features, vegetation, and small architectural elements creates the effect of a "living" landscape.

Etherstone Garden showcases an innovative approach to landscape lighting. It features a dynamic lighting system that adapts to lunar cycles. During a full moon, the intensity of artificial light is reduced, allowing natural moonlight to dominate the space.

The integration of the lighting control system with the smart home enables seamless light transitions and scenarios that consider the time of day, weather conditions, and the presence of people on the property.