Gold Leaf Award Winner 2025

Urban Planters

Urban Planters were delighted to work on the GPE St Andrew Street project — a scheme that brought together design excellence, sustainability, and biophilic innovation in one remarkable building. From the moment visitors enter the reception, they’re greeted by lush planting in the bespoke joinery beds, setting the tone for a workplace where nature and design exist in perfect harmony. Moving through the floors and up to the roof terrace, where a stunning living wall creates an urban oasis, the result is an environment that feels inspiring, healthy, and connected to nature.

Urban Planters were provided with detailed floor plans and tasked with developing a planting scheme that complemented the building’s interior design and the client’s sustainability goals. Every element — from the colour and finish of the pots to the species selection — had to meet exacting standards. The client had made a significant investment in creating a high-quality, enjoyable workspace, and planting played a crucial role in achieving that vision.

A variety of planters were used to add character and texture to the space. Large bespoke joinery beds were fitted with made-to-order GRP liners to ensure perfect integration. Smaller planters, including 3D-printed designs made from recycled plastic, were used to add unique detailing on shelving and desks. Many of the freestanding and tabletop planters were crafted from recycled materials such as forest-floor remnants (twigs, bark, and leaves) and recycled paper composites — perfectly aligning with the client’s environmental ethos.

Preserved plants were used on the hanging rafts in areas where live planting wasn’t practical, allowing Urban Planters to maintain a lush, natural appearance with minimal upkeep. Across the nine-storey building, a carefully curated selection of live plants was introduced to bring texture, colour, and vibrancy to each space, creating a cohesive and uplifting environment that complements the building’s modern design and sustainable ethos.

The client also requested a living wall for the roof terrace, aiming for a solution that aligned with the building’s strong sustainability focus. Urban Planters presented two system options, with the chosen design offering exceptional environmental credentials — being made from sustainable materials, fully recyclable, and reusable.

 The living wall and external planting were delivered in collaboration with the main contractor, requiring close coordination with multiple trades to meet tight programme targets and ensure completion on schedule. Managing logistics within the building presented additional challenges, particularly in establishing the correct water pressure for the irrigation system. Through meticulous planning and teamwork, Urban Planters ensured the installation was delivered smoothly, achieving an outstanding result that complemented the building’s eco-conscious vision.

The completed scheme showcases how thoughtful biophilic design can transform a workspace into a thriving, sustainable environment. Every detail — from the recycled materials to the innovative living wall — contributes to the building’s environmental credentials and aesthetic appeal.

Urban Planters’ work at GPE St Andrew Street stands as a benchmark for sustainable interior landscaping and a deserving recipient of the Gold Leaf Award, reflecting their dedication to excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

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