At Meristem Design, we believe that the future of urban living lies in creating sustainable, attractive, and resilient cities. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by partnering with Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to implement green infrastructure that enhances public spaces, supports local businesses, and improves climate resilience. Through our collaborative efforts, we’re helping to create healthier streets, vibrant neighbourhoods, and thriving communities.
Our Approach: Tailored Solutions for BIDs
We understand that every BID has unique needs and goals. That’s why we work closely with each borough and district to develop customised urban greening solutions and designs that align with their identity and strategic vision. Our approach is rooted in sustainability, community impact and aesthetic appeal to ensure that every project delivers tangible benefits for businesses, residents and visitors.
Featured products and services
Our high-quality, custom-made planters are designed to withstand urban environments while adding vibrancy and colour to streetscapes. With bespoke options in materials, colours, and finishes, we create planters that reflect a BID’s unique identity.
We worked with the Central District Alliance to bring custom planters to New Oxford Street. We introduced a series of street planters to soften the bustling streetscape, and bring additional greenery and biodiversity to the space with a mix of drought-tolerant and long-flowering plant species.
Carol Boye from CDA gave the following feedback: We've had a really positive experience working with Meristem Design. John and the team are reliable, proactive, and consistently deliver high-quality work, with strong attention to detail and an understanding of the wider context of our public realm projects. Their collaborative approach has made them a valued partner, and we look forward to continuing to work together.
We transform high streets and underused areas into inviting green spaces with parklets that feature seating, tables and places to rest. These installations not only boost community interaction but also drive foot traffic to local businesses.
We worked with Hammersmith BID on the Hammersmith and Fulham Parklets to provide cycle parking and seating space, giving the area a sense of purpose and encouraging active travel for the wider community. The parklets went on to win the Best Healthy Streets Improvement District Project, a testimonial to the improvements they brought to the borough.
Rain gardens can support BIDs by reducing surface water flooding, defining street layout zones and giving spaces a bit more character. Our rain gardens are designed to boost biodiversity, enhance the streetscape and create more welcoming spaces for people to pass through.
Working with the Central District Alliance, we installed rain gardens along St. John Street, an iconic stretch that anchors the historical Smithfield Market to boost pollinators, resting spaces and active travel routes through the space. Featuring over 1500 pollinator-friendly plants, seating stones, pathways and bug hotels, the space has come alive and local residents and commuters are actively using the space to socialise and spend more time outdoors.
Living walls are a great way of visually improving high streets, commercial spaces and BIDs. Providing a green backdrop to restaurants, offices and other venues, living walls make use of vertical spaces to catch the eye and bring additional greenery to spaces where it may not have been before.
Better Bankside BID decided that the iconic spot, Borough Market, was lacking greenery and visual interest. We partnered with them to deliver a living wall right by a key entrance to the space where footfall is high. The wall draws in the wider interest of visitors and tourists, supporting the businesses in the market and creating a more pleasant space to walk through.
To keep green installations thriving, we offer tailored maintenance packages that include watering, pruning and pest control.
We've looked after the Northbank sector of the London Heritage Quarter BID including Embankment, Charing Cross and Villiers Street. Our team regularly prune, water and fertilise the planters we previously installed in the area to keep them looking their best and remain functional for years to come.
The Power of Urban Greening
Urban greening is more than just an aesthetic enhancement - it’s a transformative tool that can revitalise areas, boost local economies, and improve the wellbeing of residents and visitors alike. By incorporating greenery into urban spaces, BIDs can unlock a host of benefits that go beyond visual appeal. Here’s how:
Increased Footfall and Economic Growth
- Green, well-maintained spaces are magnets for visitors. They encourage people to linger, explore, and return, which translates to higher foot traffic for local businesses.
Enhanced Visual Appeal and Safety
- Greenery adds colour, texture, and vibrancy to urban environments, making districts more attractive and enjoyable. These spaces not only look better but also feel safer and more relaxing.
Street Furniture in Walton for Walton BID
Revitalising Underutilised Areas
- Greening projects can breathe new life into neglected or underused spaces, turning them into thriving hubs for social interaction and economic activity, creating a positive cycle of growth and development.
Improved Air Quality and Climate Resilience
- Plants and trees help reduce urban heat, filter pollutants, and capture carbon, contributing to cleaner air and a more sustainable environment.
Community Interaction and Wellbeing
- Green spaces provide places for people to connect, socialise and unwind. For those who spend most of their day indoors, exposure to greenery can boost productivity and mental health.
The Bigger Picture: Building Sustainable Cities
Urban greening is a powerful tool for creating cities that are not only beautiful but also sustainable and resilient. By working with BIDs, we’re helping to shape urban environments that prioritise the wellbeing of people and the planet. From improving air quality to fostering community spirit, the benefits of green infrastructure are far-reaching and transformative.
At Meristem Design, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement, collaborating with BIDs to create greener, healthier, and more vibrant urban spaces.
Let’s work together to transform your district into a model of sustainable urban living. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your BID’s vision for a greener future.
