After the Grenfell tragedy in 2017, the government proposed a plan to revamp the Lancaster West Estate, creating more inviting, green communal areas and boosting biodiversity. As part of the WeAreW11 vision, residents were able to have their say on the future of the estate, which is where we then came in to help deliver this vision. Our project featured a strategic range of products that aimed to increase the greenery, overall atmosphere and aesthetics of the estate.

Working with the Lancaster West Neighbourhood Team – WeAreW11, this project involved a start-to-end process of designing and installing living walls, planters and flower beds. A broad planting scheme was implemented, encompassing hardly plants and biophilic plants designed to bring consistent biodiversity and visually enhance the estate.

Meristem’s approach involved multiple tailored solutions, using the existing architecture of the estate to enhance greenery and create warmer communal spaces. Some of the plants in the planting scheme included:

• Soleirolia soleirolii
• Helleborus niger
• Polystichum Setiferum
• Polystichum polyblepharum
• Euphorbia wulfenii
• Asplenium scolopendrium
• Vinca minor
• Cyrotmium fortunei
• Liriope muscari
• Convolvulus cneorum
• Sarcococca Confusa
• Carex everest
• Erysimum bowles mauve

This project not only enhanced the visual interest of the estate but also improved the sense of community. By structuring a communal space with planters and flower beds, we created an inviting area for residents to enjoy and relax in. The planting enhanced biodiversity, promoted cleaner air, and attracted pollinator insects. The living walls serve as visual focal points and help reduce carbon, creating safer and healthier environments.