Case studies

Flora Gardens Primary School

Building a safer, climate resilient primary school at Flora Gardens
Client
Hammersmith and Fulham Council
Location

Project overview

Meristem Design collaborated with Hammersmith and Fulham Council to deliver a range of SuDS planters across schools in the borough. Building on our previous school projects with the council, the work at Flora Gardens Primary demonstrates how flood resilience and biodiversity can be combined with interactive learning to create safer, more resilient school environments.

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Goal

As part of the council’s wider SuDS scheme, this planter installation aimed to reduce flood risk at the primary school while creating interactive green features for pupils. The overall goal was to combine functional design with learning, supporting climate resilience and the stewardship of the next generation.

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Scope

The project spanned all corners of the primary school playground and outdoor space. 11 SuDS planters were connected to the building’s downpipes to ensure the practical use of roof runoff. Four of the planters featured integrated seating, providing additional resting spaces for students.

Our team also ran interactive planting workshops with some of the pupils to engage them with the new SuDS features and teach practical planting skills.

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Solutions

The design and placement of the SuDS planters were crucial in ensuring benefits for both students and teachers, as well as the wider school environment. By connecting the planters to the downpipes, the project aimed to provide significant flood relief. In addition, engaging children in the installation process helped integrate both fun and functional features across the school grounds.

Downpipe Connection

The downpipes were connected to the planters to capture rainwater and reduce surface flooding.

SuDS Planters

SuDS planters were installed to manage runoff while enhancing the greenery of the school grounds.

Educational Signage and Workshops

Educational signage and workshops were used to help students understand water management, sustainability and biodiversity.

Vibrant and Hardy Planting

Vibrant, hardy plants were selected to ensure year-round interest and long-term resilience.
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Impact

The project has had a positive impact on both the school environment and its users by combining sustainable drainage with educational and wellbeing benefits. By integrating SuDS features, planting, and seating, the scheme supports flood resilience, biodiversity, and a more engaging outdoor space for students and staff.

Engaging Students in their Green Spaces

Students are encouraged to interact with and take ownership of their school’s green spaces through hands-on learning and daily use.

Flood Management

The SuDS planters help manage rainwater runoff, reducing the risk of surface water flooding across the site.

Improved Biodiversity

A diverse range of planting supports local wildlife and enhances ecological value within the school grounds.

Relaxed Environment

Integrated seating and enhanced greenery create calmer, more inviting spaces that support wellbeing and social interaction.
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Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School
Flora Gardens Primary School

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If you like what you've seen in our case study and want to learn more about how this could work in your setting, please get in touch.

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