As the days start to get lighter, the outdoors once again presents itself as a welcoming environment. Hospitality projects make the most of this time of year to create appealing outdoor spaces for clients, especially those looking for a calming and luxurious break.

British landscape architect, Scape Design Associates has recently completed a high-end hospitality exterior for a new hotel in Turkey. The challenge for Mandarin Oriental Bodrum’s landscape was to weave the landscape around the buildings, creating the sense that they both might have been there for years, naturally growing together over time like an ancient settlement on the shores of the sea. Read more about this project on page 22.

On the subject of outdoor spaces, this month’s Public Space focus on page 30 presents alternative options for public space design that create genuine societal hubs for urban locations. Jennette Emery- Wallis, Landscape Architect at LUC, explains: “Play opportunities should be integral to the fabric of our cities, be they play streets, roof gardens, pocket parks or public open spaces. Places to play and be active will become ever more vital in addressing the health needs of our children and young adults.”

Other issue highlights include an exclusive interview with high-end interior designer and television personality Celia Sawyer on page 18 and guidance from staircase expert Bisca’s Design Director Richard McLane on choosing the right staircase and balustrade for your project on page 40.