Open-air complexes are ideal destinations for enjoying the outdoors, except during the hot summer months. High temperatures and scorching sun can hinder comfort and enjoyment in these areas, discouraging visits during warmer seasons.
However, by implementing landscaping and shading strategies, we can elevate these spaces and transform them into dynamic destinations with beautiful views, environmental value, and elegant design.
Landscaping refers to planting trees and shrubs in barren areas, creating a green community that serves the ecosystem and the environment. It also benefits humans by improving air quality, regulating local climate, and reducing thermal effects. For this reason, it is a smart step in designing open-air complexes, especially in hot countries.
“Working to combat climate change boosts competitiveness, creates millions of jobs, and today’s younger generation in the Kingdom and around the world demands a cleaner and more sustainable future. We owe it to them to deliver that.” – His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud
Landscaping can be an individual initiative to plant trees in public or private spaces or part of larger afforestation projects undertaken by government agencies or non-profit organizations. Saudi Vision 2030 adopts the largest afforestation initiative in the Middle East, embarking on a sustainable and vibrant green era to combat desertification, address the resulting environmental and economic challenges, reduce temperatures, and protect biodiversity in all regions of the Kingdom.
In recent years, there has been increased interest in greenery in the Kingdom. To unify efforts and follow this ambitious vision, you should consider implementing this strategy in your open-air commercial complex design.
By implementing landscaping and shading strategies in open-air complexes, we can make them attractive to visitors even during the hot summer months. By providing shade, comfort, improving air quality, enhancing the overall landscape, and filling it with aesthetics, the visitor experience is elevated and enhanced, attracting more people.
How can landscaping and green spaces be utilized in open-air complexes?
- Reducing temperatures and providing shade: Trees reduce temperatures by providing shade that protects from the harsh sun and its direct rays, making the green environment more moderate and comfortable for visitors, and worth visiting for longer periods even in the summer.
- Providing aesthetic value: Plants and greenery add visual beauty to any space. Undoubtedly, diverse plants and vibrant trees enhance the landscape and make these destinations more attractive and connected to nature, even in urban areas.
- Improving air quality: Landscaping contributes to improving air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Plants with dense and low leaves can be used to absorb air pollutants and purify the air.
Important points to consider when implementing landscaping and shading strategies in open-air complexes:
- Selecting the right plants: Choose trees and plants that can withstand high temperatures and drought. You can consult agricultural experts to select the appropriate types that are compatible with the local climate.
- Creating shading structures: You can use umbrellas, or natural shades like trees and wooden cabins to provide shade in open-air complexes. These structures should be strategically oriented to achieve an even distribution of shade in the area.
- Plant care: Provide the necessary care for your plants, that includes regular watering and providing the necessary nutrients. Regular pruning of trees and plants should also be done to maintain their shape and health.
- Providing shaded spaces: Designate specific areas and shade them; such as outdoor seating for eating and drinking. This makes them a suitable place to relax.
Landscaping and greenery can make a positive impact in the field of real estate development and the environment, it also contributes to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which encourages environmental conservation principles such as sustainability, water desalination, and the use of solar energy to reduce harmful consumption.
All of this inspires citizens, decision-makers, and business owners to change their habits and consider the big picture before making decisions that may seem small but are crucial for the environment and the future of cities. This approach, which starts from governments and real estate companies, is the first step in environmental education and the most important step toward a green, vibrant, and conscious Kindom.
