Lifescapes revitalized and greatly expanded (to 120,000 sm, or 30 acres) an existing private park and man-made lake to provide an exclusive amenity to homeowners in nearby luxury communities Imperial Mansion and Beijing Demesne. Dubbed Hyde Park, because of its unique, royal-like proportions and amenities, the improvements not only invigorated the open space, they have contributed to the boost in sales at the neighboring properties.

Designed as a statement in contemporary landscape architecture, this modern park integrates specially designed areas with a classical European flare that complement the traditional gardens of Imperial Mansion. The juxtaposition of styles produced the fresh experience the client was looking for to set the development apart from others across China.

To take advantage of the grandeur of Lake Victoria, key vehicular and pedestrian routes were opened up to areas which were previously underutilized. The strolling and jogging path network was expanded to over 1,500 m (nearly a mile) long, improving the flow of traffic to destinations throughout the park. A focal point away from the lake is a 52 m (170 ft) diameter European fountain that features a dancing water show set to music and is surrounded by water plants and a grand shade pavilion.

There are sprawling lawn areas, perfect for community events, which roll into mounding berms with sculptural drama. The spiraling walkway leads down to a tree-lined amphitheater. Meanwhile, weaving through the property are meandering reflection pools – perfect spots for reflection and respite. An ambling 275 m (900 ft) spiral, meditation walk, “Flower Hill,” culminates in a dramatic domed folly at the top of the 6.5 m (21 ft) high peak in which to rest and enjoy the view of the surrounding patterned shrub planting.

A bridge with stylized contemporary scrollwork leads residents from Flower Hill to the forest garden, an area intended to provide another mood as well as a buffer to the adjacent, elevated train tracks. A large granite waterfall which connects the forest back to the park flows into a shallow pond, perfect for summertime play.

For the younger residents, LSI designed a 7,100 sm (1.75 acre) Kid’s Adventure Park on the other side of the lake, away from the rest of the park. Featuring extensive grade changes and custom-made play elements (balance beams, webbed rope equipment, musical play equipment, mazes, and tunnels), this destination promotes children’s mobility, agility and creativity. A terrace overlooks the activity zone while also creating a perfect spot for gatherings or birthday celebrations.

The planting selection offers numerous types of flowering and deciduous trees that offer color and shade for the warmer months, woven around a backbone of evergreen trees for year-round green as well as visual buffering. Beds of changing patterned annual color also wind through the landscape, greeting residents and guests throughout the seasons.