Paul Cracknell

    Recognising the capacity of good landscape design to improve the health and wellbeing of those from all backgrounds, Paul established Cracknell in London in 1987. Alongside successful community projects across London, Paul’s overseas work led him to open the second office in Dubai just as the Emirate was about to enter its first major expansion period. Cracknell’s far-reaching landscape work was a key part in the endeavour contributing to the region’s rapid growth.

    Now with six studios worldwide and 30 years’ international experience, Paul is a proactive Chairman, contributing intuitive design ability and an energetic raison d’être to the company mission.

    Oasiz Madrid

    Oasiz Madrid, Madrid, Spain waterfront landscape design

    Grand mature trees are reflected in the shallow lakes of this contemporary yet gardenesque lush retail landscape.

     

    In a celebration of culture and community this vibrant shopping and entertainment destination is a regional draw. The mountains and rocky pools of Madrid’s Torrejon de Ardoz region inspired the simple bold fluidity of the landscape design. Looking to drive footfall by activating and connecting all the open spaces, two visually interlinked lakes provide both attractive wetland environments and an entertainment venue; a series of terraced decks enliven the lake edges with atmospheric café seating and outdoor dining. 

    Sinuous paths direct visitors around the landscape in a flowing movement that is punctuated by a series of sensory nodes. These intense gardens concentrate taste and sound, touch and scents, evoking immersive and intangible experiences such as music or memory.

     

    Fun and contemporary, the space is a fluid story of experiences. An open air stage, an urban beach, sculptures, oversized bean bags, hammocks and fountains provide inspiring and surprising pockets of play and delight, encouraging the curious to explore. After dark a sparkling array of colourful light displays and cinema screens bring a creative buzz to the plazas. 

     

    Sustainability was built into the design from inception. All roofs either have planted gardens or are covered in sedum, solar panels cover 7500m2, the lake water is recycled and photocatalytic materials were used throughout the construction. The project’s BREEAM Excellent rating is a reflection of the design team’s innovation and commitment to its design resilience. 

    © Alex Fidalgo Garcia - Lluvia Estudio Creativo
    © Alex Fidalgo Garcia - Lluvia Estudio Creativo
    © Oasiz Madrid
    © Alex Fidalgo Garcia - Lluvia Estudio Creativo
    © Alex Fidalgo Garcia - Lluvia Estudio Creativo
    © Alex Fidalgo Garcia - Lluvia Estudio Creativo

    Valbonne Retail Park

    A hybrid retail park that accommodates offices and leisure areas, the Valbonne Retail Park lies on the Côte d’Azur between Nice and Cannes. 

    A large central lake and wooded areas bed this leisure complex into the surrounding landscape. With a maximum two storey height, extensive green roofs and underground car parking the development will have a low impact on surrounding landscape views. Adjacent to a major thoroughfare to Cannes and a future TGV station, the attraction will serve both locals and tourists alike.

    Thessaloniki Confex Park

    A park for all seasons that celebrates the 1960s landmark OTE Tower and reunites the city across a rejuvenated mixed-use park and urban activity core that serves university campuses, event and exhibition centres and shopping districts.

    Meeting the challenges of the site, culture and sport are celebrated in a space that unites disparate land uses and zones within Thessaloniki.

    Limassol del Mar

    “Limassol Del Mar will surely become an iconic destination for people to enjoy for years to come, and invite recognition of the beauty, vibrant culture, and modernity that Limassol deserves.”

    Fady Khalife, Group Design Director/Managing Director-Europe

    Contemporary beach landscape and public spaces reflect the Mediterranean location of this 5 star development. The fluid design and materiality evokes the waves of the sea, reinforcing the resort language and character.

    Faro Garden

    An organic garden with a rustic, Mediterranean ‘lived in’ feel envelopes this private south coast retreat.

    Paths meander through the landscape connecting hidden terraces and water pools, providing an authentic Portuguese setting. 


    Attracting an abundance of wildlife, the garden is interspersed with scattered rock groupings, reclaimed wooden sleepers and ‘natural’ water features.

    Cavo Tagoo Hotel Zuma Beach Club

    An extension of this 5* hotel’s famous beach club will retain the clear views to the horizon across the Aegean Sea, creating a one-of-a-kind hilltop lifestyle destination.

    The multi-purpose luxury relaxation space will feature a restaurant, lounge and bar, infinity pool and daytime poolside lounging.

    Lustica Bay Resort

    Referencing the traditional vernacular and intricate winding street patterns, this resort echoes the local organic, rustic character and harmoniously sits alongside the nearby villages.

    Taking full advantage of the dramatic coastline with far reaching views over the Adriatic Sea the architecture clings to the mountain side, nestling between the existing rich coastal planting.

     

    Visitors will find moments of discovery and intrigue created by the interplay of narrow lanes threading between buildings and opening into courtyards and plazas of mottled paving.