Stantec: Sustainable biophilic design for a sustainable workplace

Located just minutes from some of London’s most iconic cultural landmarks, Stantecs new office space demanded a biophilic design scheme capable of capturing the imagination - and competing with the inspiring architecture that surrounds the area. The British Museum is only a short walk away, and the calm, natural beauty of Regent’s Park sits just to the north.

Together with Stantec, we sought a planting scheme that was subtle, effective, and purposeful. We wanted to communicate their environmental credentials and green ambitions while gently anchoring the workspace into one cohesive, connected environment.

The planting would not shout for attention, but instead work quietly and intelligently to enrich the office and support its sustainable ethos.

The brief: Office planting that blends into the architecture

Rather than having the planting loudly dominate the space, we wanted the office planting to integrate seamlessly into the fabric of the workspace. This would also reflect the way sustainability is woven naturally and consistently into Stantec’s own business practice.

It was also important for us to reflect on our own sustainability commitments throughout the project. Plant Plan is working towards a new set of internal sustainability goals, shaped by our dedicated ESG group, and this project provided the ideal opportunity to benchmark our progress and refine our approach.

The scheme also had to be functional. We wanted to provide areas of restorative calm, practical acoustic baffling in key areas, and integrate as much planting as possible, without impeding on space.

The design: Integrated office planting that is both visual and sustainable.

Our design team wanted the planting to contribute to the structure of the interior, enhancing the existing architectural features, rather than dominating them.

Tall, structural species were placed on end-of-desk planters to create a sense of refuge from higher traffic areas. Strong topographical floor-standing planters softened harder corners and helped to guide the flow of movement through the office. Gentle hanging plants added a calming canopy in meeting rooms, creating a softer and more comfortable environment for focused conversations.

Statement foliage was used sparingly but effectively, adding height and presence where the architecture naturally invited it. One key example was the exposed brick cross-girder wall, where a feature planter held lush, vibrant greenery. Smaller, softer planting was also introduced in recessed areas where natural light could filter through, creating pockets of calm throughout the workspace.

Materiality played an important role throughout the scheme. Planter finishes were chosen to complement the interior palette, reflecting the natural, biophilic tones already present in the furniture and flooring.

The result is a planting scheme that sits seamlessly within the wider environment, reinforcing Stantec’s sustainability values without ever feeling overstated.

The challenge: Meeting sustainability standards and a complex fit out

Working with a company so deeply rooted in sustainability meant the bar was set high from the outset. The planting scheme had to embody the same principles Stantec champions in their own work, both in its design and in its execution.

We also had the challenges typical of a central London office planting scheme; multiple trades, shifting schedules, and material movements throughout the building.

Coordination, was as always, key. Through close communication with contractors, continuous schedule reviews, and careful staging, we delivered the installation smoothly and without delay.

Beyond installation: Plant maintenance for long term performance

We here at always consider the long term when designing and installing planting schemes.

It is vital that a scheme works far beyond the first install; that it grows and thrives in the space in which it is set. This commitment is central to our Plant Plan philosophy, but it carried particular weight for this project.

A company that lives and breathes sustainability could not be supported by a planting scheme that required frequent replacements. Our maintenance teams have been vigilantly monitoring the performance of the plants in this scheme, to ensure as few plant replacements as possible!

Conclusion: Sustainable design made visible

At Stantec’s Tottenham Street headquarters, planting is not simply decorative. It reinforces the company’s dedication to sustainability, forming a natural extension of the work they do every day.

Through thoughtful design, precise installation, and long term maintenance, the planting scheme has become a quiet but powerful addition to the workspace. It enhances wellbeing, elevates the interior, and supports Stantec’s commitment to creating environments that respect people and the planet.

This project shows how subtle biophilic design can transform even the most contemporary office interiors into spaces that feel connected, grounded, and truly alive.

If you would like to find our more about what we can do to transform your office with outstanding indoor plants, get in touch!