Meristem Design Limited

In a proactive response to urban flooding risks, we worked with Southwark Council to implement Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) infrastructure in the London Bridge area. Identified as a Critical Drainage Area (CDA), the site was equipped with large steel powder-coated SuDS planters designed to manage rainwater, reduce flood risks, and enhance urban biodiversity. Installed in 2022, these planters play a crucial role in addressing urban water management challenges in urban residential areas.SolutionsSuDS planters provide innovative and efficient solutions including:Stormwater Capture and ControlStrategically placed planters intercept and store rainwater, releasing it slowly to prevent drainage overflowNatural FiltrationVegetation and soil layers act as natural filters, removing pollutants from the water before it enters the environmentCompact DesignAs containerised rain gardens, SuDS planters are space-efficient, making them ideal for urban areas with limited ground spaceMultifunctionalityThe planters improve water management, enhance urban biodiversity, and beautify public spaces simultaneouslyImpactThe SuDS planters in Southwark have delivered significant environmental and social benefitsFlood Risk MitigationBy capturing and managing stormwater, the planters reduce urban flood riskImproved Water QualityFiltration systems within the planters ensure cleaner water returns to the environmentUrban CoolingThe vegetation within the planters contributes to cooling the local environment and mitigates the urban heat island effectBiodiversity BoostNative and adaptive plants support local ecosystems, creating diverse habitats for pollinators and other species

Revitalising High Streets Across Wembley, Harlesden and Kilburn with our Planter and Parklets. As we all know our High streets have been hit hard by our changing online shopping habits along with the uncertainty and unpredictability following the after-effects of the COVID lockdown.As many of Brent’s residents have shifted towards working from home and spending more time in their own local neighbourhoods, the council wanted to refresh the high streets for the new daytime generation to enjoy.  The new initiatives have included everything from aesthetic and environmental improvements to new youth facilities and public artwork.Wembley High RoadFor Wembley High Road the council wanted to carry out improvement works to enhance the appearance and character of the high road including, new footway paving, lighting, seating areas and greenery with new trees and plants.  This is where our planters and parklets came into the equation, the planters with integrated seating allow the residents to sit and rest during their shopping and local residents in the surrounding flat to come out and enjoy the sunshine.Harlesden Town CentreHarlesden being a vibrant and multicultural centre within Brent is a priority area for the council.  There are a lot of major developments taking place and therefore the challenge is to retain the character and sense of place.In early 2020, Brent Council acquired the former Picture Palace cinema building on Manor Park Road, Harlesden, and set aside funding for the renovation and refurbishment of the building.Meristem was asked to install a series of planters surrounding the Picture Palace cinema to brighten up the frontage, and provide greenery, trees, plants and seating opportunities. Kilburn High RoadKilburn High Road is an important local town centre and is designated as one of 35 ‘major centres’ according to the Mayor’s London Plan.The high road has lots of shops – both large retailers and small independents – a market, library, restaurants, pubs, and the Tricycle Theatre and Cinema. These all help to create Kilburn’s character and offer a wide range of goods and services to residents as well as to evening visitors to the restaurants and other attractions.The objectives of the Kilburn High Road improvement scheme are to reduce the dominance of traffic on the high road, help create a place that people want to visit and spend time in, and support businesses.The feedback led to our green interventions to make the high street greener through the inclusion of trees, planters, shrubs, and seating.

Meristem worked with Derby City Council to install innovative pocket parks, planters, and bike corrals across multiple locations in Derby. Funded by the Government’s Future Transport Zones Fund, the project features six pocket parks, nine bike corrals, and other green infrastructure, with a focus on improving public spaces and creating more accessible, eco-friendly areas within the city.Goal The primary goal was to transform unused or underutilised spaces into welcoming, functional, and sustainable community hubs. This initiative aims to:Create green spaces that enhance the aesthetic and environmental quality of local neighborhoods.Promote active travel, such as walking and cycling, by providing safe, accessible areas for rest and secure bike parking.Boost local businesses by increasing footfall and making it easier for people to visit shops and amenities without relying on cars.Improve biodiversity and environmental sustainability through the integration of plant life and green infrastructure.Scope Six Pocket Parks located at:Burton Road/Harrington Road, LittleoverChapel Street, SpondonEtwall Road, MickleoverLondon Road, AlvastonNottingham Road, ChaddesdenUniversity of Derby’s Britannia Mill siteUttoxeter Road, MickleoverNine Bike Corrals: Birchover Way, AllestreeBlagreaves Library, LittleoverCouncil House, City CentreKedleston Road, DarleyParker Street, DarleyPrince Charles Avenue, MackworthGrove Street, NormantonSolutions Through collaborative design, strategic placement, and community input, we created sustainable public spaces that promote active travel and support local businesses.Collaborative DesignMeristem Design worked closely with Derby City Council and local communities to create custom, site-specific designs that incorporated sustainable materials, varied seating options, and plant life.Strategic PlacementThe parks and bike corrals were placed near busy local amenities to encourage active travel and support local businesses.Sustainable and Flexible StructuresThe pocket parks use durable materials and are designed to be movable, ensuring long-term sustainability and adaptability to changing needs.ImpactThe project delivers a range of positive impacts, from enhancing community wellbeing to supporting local businesses and promoting environmental sustainability.Community WellbeingThe pocket parks provide accessible, green spaces for relaxation, socialising, and improving mental health.Encouraging Active TravelBy offering secure bike parking and pedestrian-friendly spaces, the project promotes walking and cycling, reducing congestion and emissions.Support for Local BusinessesThe proximity of the parks and bike corrals to local shops boosts foot traffic, benefiting the local economy.Environmental BenefitsThe green spaces enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and contribute to Derby’s sustainability goals.

In the heart of Regent Street lies a hidden gem - Heddon Street, a vibrant hub bustling with fantastic bars and restaurants. Our latest installation of colourful planters has breathed new life into this thriving area, illuminating it with a burst of vibrant hues and the refreshing touch of nature. In collaboration with Landscape Architects Macgregor Smith and funded by the Crown Estate, this project has revitalised Heddon Street, creating an enchanting and captivating atmosphere for all to enjoy.FABRICATION AND DELIVERY OF CUSTOM PLANTERS The planters were fabricated, painted and filled with soil in our workshop in Sevenoaks. To minimise disruptions to the busy area, the planters were delivered to the site using a Hiab, a method chosen specifically for its efficiency and convenience. This careful logistical planning ensured a smooth installation process and minimised any disturbances to the street's vibrant atmosphere.PLANTING SELECTION AND SEASONAL VARIATIONSThe selection of plants was carefully curated to complement the vibrancy of the planters and create a captivating display throughout the seasons. Bright and blooming flowers were chosen to enhance the visual appeal during the summer months, infusing the street with an array of colours that delight the senses. Additionally, grasses were selected to provide visual interest and texture during the autumn and winter seasons, ensuring that Heddon Street remains captivating and engaging all year round.CREATING ENCHANTING OUTDOOR DINING AREAS THROUGH 'GREEN BOOTHS'The primary aim of this project was to create inviting and comfortable outdoor dining areas for the fantastic bars and restaurants that populate Heddon Street. To achieve this, the planters were strategically placed to create enclosed "green booths" where visitors can dine amidst the beauty of nature. These intimate and charming spaces offer a unique and immersive dining experience that sets Heddon Street apart from traditional outdoor dining settings. By harmoniously blending nature and culinary delights, visitors can enjoy their meals in a charming and refreshing atmosphere.THE POWER OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN ENHANCING URBAN SPACES WITH NATUREBiophilic design, which aims to integrate nature into our built environments, has been a key element in the revitalisation of Heddon Street. By integrating nature into the heart of the city, the colourful planters become a beacon of biophilic design, providing numerous benefits for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.BIOPHILIC DESIGN BENEFITS FOR BUSINESSESHere are a few key advantages:Enhanced Well-being and Productivity: Research shows that exposure to nature and natural elements can have a positive impact on people's well-being and productivity. Incorporating biophilic design in business spaces can reduce stress, boost mood, and increase overall job satisfaction among employees. Happier and healthier employees tend to be more productive and engaged, leading to improved business outcomes.Increased Customer Attraction and Retention: Biophilic design creates a welcoming and visually appealing atmosphere that can attract customers and keep them coming back. When businesses incorporate natural elements such as plants, water features, or natural lighting, it creates a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for customers. This positive experience can result in increased customer satisfaction, loyalty, and ultimately, higher revenues.Environmental Sustainability and Responsibility: Embracing biophilic design demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability and responsibility. By incorporating natural elements and practices such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling, and sustainable materials, businesses can showcase their dedication to eco-consciousness. This can resonate with environmentally conscious consumers and stakeholders, enhancing the brand's reputation and attracting a broader customer base.Positive Brand Image and Differentiation: Businesses that adopt biophilic design can create a distinct and memorable brand image. By embracing the beauty and benefits of nature, companies can stand out in a crowded marketplace and differentiate themselves from competitors.

Meristem Design worked with East Sussex County Council (ESCC) to deliver bespoke Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) installations across schools in the Eastbourne and Southern Wealden region. The initiative is part of the Blue Heart programme, supported and funded by Defra, Southern Water, Environment Agency, Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme (FCRIP) and the Department for Education. The goal is to mitigate the significant surface water flooding risk in the urbanised area while educating students on sustainability, water management, and climate resilience.ScopeThe Blue Heart: SuDS for Schools programme aims to install Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in a total of 32 schools across Eastbourne and Southern Wealden. These bespoke installations address each school’s unique environmental needs, while fostering student engagement and climate education. The project is being delivered in multiple phases over several years. Phase 1 is complete and we are currently delivering Phase 2.Fun and playful plantersThe SuDS planters include bright and engaging features such as rain clouds, colourful murals, and the pupil's artworkRainwater harvesting systemsThe SuDS systems reduce runoff and encourage water conservation, teaching students the importance of reusing resources, reinforcing sustainability principlesEducational enrichmentBy participating in the co-design process, students develop a sense of ownership over their new school's resilience solutionsBiodiversity and green spacesThe SuDS planters are filled with pollinator-friendly, hardy and native plants, enhancing biodiversityCommunity engagement and empowermentEngaging students and communities ensures that the principles of sustainability and flood resilience are integrated into daily life, inspiring future climate leaders in the pupilsFlood resilienceBy diverting surface water from overloaded drainage systems, SuDS planters reduce the risk of surface water flooding. This protects school grounds and surrounding neighbourhoods from flood damage during extreme weather eventsImproving sustainability awarenessBy demonstrating the benefits of rainwater harvesting and sustainable drainage, the project promotes water conservation and reduces dependency on traditional drainage infrastructureEnvironmentally focused behavioural changeThe project encourages a shift towards more sustainable practices, inspiring students and their families to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors and contribute to climate resilience efforts.

We are delighted to share that our Climate Resilient Schools program in partnership with the Greater London Authority, the Department for Education, and Thames Water, received recognition at the prestigious Flood and Coast Awards. This accolade is a testament to the effectiveness and innovation of our approach to climate resilience. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to London's sustainability goals and support the city's commitment to addressing climate change.At Meristem Design, we are proud to have been awarded the prestigious Climate Resilient Schools contract by the Greater London Authority (GLA). Our mission was to design, build, and install 564 SuDS Rain Planters across London's most flood-prone schools. In collaboration with the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, the Department for Education, and Thames Water, our aim was to enhance the resilience of these schools in London, ensuring they are better prepared to face the challenges posed by climate change. Through this project, we aimed to create sustainable, climate-resilient environments while educating children on the importance of nature in combatting global warming.FOCUSING ON FLOOD-PRONE SCHOOLSThe Climate Resilient Schools project focuses on schools that are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Priority is given to the top 10 percent of schools facing the highest surface water flood risk and falling within the most severe bands of the Climate Risk Map. Flooding can have a devastating impact on schools, as was evidenced in the summer of 2007 when extensive flooding in England led to widespread school closures, resulting in a staggering loss of 400,000 pupil school days and an estimated economic cost of £12 million.Outlined below are the key elements of the program along with a list of participating schools:SuDS Rain Planters: To mitigate flood risk, 72 schools have received 564 Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) rain planters. These planters effectively capture rainwater from rooftops, providing a dual benefit of flood reduction and supporting biodiversity. The feedback from schools has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing satisfaction with their SuDS rain planters. In fact, one enthusiastic Year 2 student, while participating in the planting process, expressed their aspiration to become a gardener in the future.Smarter Business Visits: Thames Water's Smarter Business Visits program offers free assessments to identify leaks and install water-efficient fittings in schools. Measures such as tap restrictors, urinal sensors, and conversion from single-flush to dual-flush toilets have been implemented in 28 schools.Weather Stations and Educational Resources: To monitor the effectiveness of the SuDS rain planters, weather stations with loggers have been installed in 24 schools. This network of weather stations is one of the most extensive in any school system. Further details and data regarding this project can be accessed on the FreeStation website.Climate Adaptation Plans: Bespoke climate adaptation plans have been provided to 60 schools to assist in identifying potential measures for future implementation, aimed at addressing the risks associated with a changing climate and extreme weather events. Each school underwent a survey to determine high-risk areas within their premises, following which appropriate measures and interventions were suggested. Examples of such measures include green roofs or window shading to mitigate overheating. The SuDS planters have proven to be a remarkable success, as they operate autonomously without requiring additional watering. The flourishing plants, nurtured by harvested rainwater, have delighted the children involved in the planting process. As part of the team at Meristem Design, we are proud to have contributed to the fabrication of the SuDS planters and the successful delivery of this project.

By introducing vibrant planters, parklets and street furniture, Meristem Design have supported the council in reimagining the area into child-friendly public spaces for the community and visitors. The completed project enhances the aesthetics, safety and functionality of the area, while providing new green spaces and seating around The Oval and in front of local schools.We introduced parklets, street furniture and planters including: 166 galvanised powder-coated steel planters33 benches and 75m2 of parklets/decking17 new treesOver 2000 grasses, shrubs, herbs and flowers166 planters: Helping improve air quality and reduce pollution, the planters are providing vibrant splashes of blue, yellow and pink, beautifying the area and creating a more inviting atmosphere. Strategically placed, the planters are helping to build a safer and more playful environment, whilst boosting biodiversity and creating rich habitats. 33 benches and 75m2 of parklets/decking: Providing more open space for children to engage and connect with nature, we have delivered new areas for them to explore and learn about plants, friendly pollinators and their environment.

Meristem Design collaborated with Camden Council to reimagine Phoenix Road, introducing greenery, large timber planters, and benches to make the space greener, safer, healthier and more enlivened. The aspiration to create a vibrant and biodiverse environment is at the heart of the project. Phoenix Road is transformed into a shared green space where people can relax, play, and socialise. We designed, fabricated and installed large sets of colourful timber planters and benches filled with a diverse range of plants and Hydrorock to enhance water retention.Integrating the planters has created a stunning green route, linking Euston and St Pancras International Stations. Reflecting the heritage and unique character of the area, the street furniture filled with lush greenery helps improve air quality and encourages local people to spend more time outdoors.