NatureCulture

Lailak Park at Emirates Hills

Wild, unstructured, mysterious – the whole park is a playground. A world to be explored.

Rambunctious planting and free play elements create a different kind of playspace.
The resident’s association for Emirates Hills initiated the creative direction for this park. The community wanted a place that appeared wild and natural, in contrast to the highly maintained character of  the gated estate. Parents wanted a place for kids to stay off their devices, use their imagination, create their own games, and explore the world with confidence.
The NatureCulutre design stimulates a sense of adventure with a range of free play elements. Low and wide retaining walls invites kids scamper through the thick planting and discover new pathways through the park.
 
Organic and seemingly random paving patterns  are custom designed for every paved surface in the park. No two paving patterns are the same. The patterns stimulate kids imaginations to invent different kinds of games.

The pattern logic is based on the shape of the paved area. For example, patterns for long paths could be used for running or racing games. Patterns for broader shaped areas could be used for chasing or ball games. 

Big play structures get kids moving—climbing, jumping, and build motor skills. Kids engage in group fun, tackling  challenges together, and making friends. Growing stronger—and loving every minute of it.

NatureCulture designed the  hilltop to make the park more visible from the surrounding area. From the hilltop, kids survey their neighbourhood, knowing they hold the most advantaged territory. A tall space net at the top of the hill accentuates the high point and calls out to be conquered. 

Every park needs a flexible space. The lawn is used for games, sport and community events like small scale markets or iftar tents during Ramadan.

Project Owner

Emirates Hills Residents Association

Location

Dubai, United Arab Emirates
25.0685862, 55.1730888

Land Area

5.6 ha (14 acre)

NatureCulture Role

Landscape Architect, Urban Forester, Community Consultation

NatureCulture Team

Liuba Apostolova, Joan Garcia, Jinmo Jung, Miguelito Pegi, Andre Paul Saladaga, Ian Sandigan, Pierre Smit, Laith Wark

Partners & Collaborators

Proscape