plant designs – United Kingdom

Category: Complexity, sustainability and long-term maintenance

Client Manager: Callum Garner Horticultural Lead: Yasmin Gunston

With the vision of an immersive biophilic design, we took on the challenge to transform a site featuring predominantly replica greenery, into one of the most abundantly planted interior workplaces in London.

The clients initially intended for 80% of the planting to be replica, but we advocated for the use of live plants – citing the building’s ample natural light, good airflow, and the many proven benefits of living greenery. This subsequently developed into one of the largest projects in Plant Designs’ history.

Our design focused on delivering visual impact at every turn, creating a natural and calming atmosphere for employees and visitors alike. To achieve this, we employed a diverse range of planting methods and styles – from large bespoke joinery to freestanding pots and even floor-integrated planters, ensuring the presence of plants throughout the spaces. These house a variety of plant species, seamlessly integrated into the furniture and fabric of the building, working in collaboration with architectural and design practice TP Bennett.

Complementing the open-plan layout of three trading floors, the space also includes several breakout areas that form a creative workspace as opposed to traditional corporate offices. The atrium floods four of the floors with natural light, with the staff restaurant, multi-functional amenity space, and access to a rooftop terrace at its base. Greenery runs throughout these versatile spaces in the form of cabinet tops, desk end planting, green wall arrangements and single potted plants.

Following a large installation in 2019, the Canary Wharf office now boasts approximately 10,000 living plants spanning 8 floors. Biophilia is subtly yet extensively woven into the building’s architectural landscape and complements the natural light and materials. The statement reception area creates and impactful welcome for staff and guests, featuring joinery that runs through the open space – punctuated with large Ficus trees and accentuated with lush underplanting.

Successfully creating spaces that truly integrate biophilia into the surroundings and the working lives of the users. We visit this site regularly with trainee and expert horticulturalists alike as it looks better and better over the years of careful maintenance and consequent plant growth.

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