When we were called in the planters at the front had been neglected since the building opened. The watering system had stopped working and the grasses had died.

We were called in when they needed urgent attention before the building was to be considered for an award. In two days, we had sourced plants, removed the dead plants, and planted it all up in time for the judges arrival.

We have been looking after Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, public flower beds, in Peckham, for several years.

The original dead grasses in the main beds were replaced by a variety of perennials and we repaired the irrigation system. We also modified the planters to make them more vandal proof.

planting in the public realm

To keep the plants in place we installed chicken wire and secured it with timber battens. This means that plant roots prevent them from being stolen or torn out.

Solid oak planters in black each have a character of their own

The planters add greenery, and allow the space to feel open while preventing cars from taking over the forecourt. Each is planted to give it a separate identity and character.

Calatheas, drcaenas sensiverias, guynura aurantiaca and alocasias add an exotic air to the atrium

The planters are black to reflect the brickwork of the building.

Succulents inhabit the desert planted

Succulents inhabit the desert planter

We also planted up indoor planters which are located in the main atrium to help bring some greenery into the space. Again each planter is designed to have its own character with the planting going from tropical to lush woodland to desert succulents.

We designed and built these three planters in solid oak, placed in the forecourt to prevent illegal parking. They are designed to be moved with a pallet truck and each is planted to have a separate identity like characters in a drama.

The planters were constructed from 50mm thick oak planks and were assembled on site.

Desert planter, located beside a window at the end of the atrium. The other planters are just visible on the right, below the rooflights

The lush and tropical planters provide some welcome greenery in the middle of the atrium