Transforming surface runoff into a sustainable solution, rain gardens capture rainfall before it enters the piped network and either releases it slowly into the network or allows it to infiltrate into the ground, preventing flooding.
Often dominated by concrete and other non-permeable surfaces, urban landscapes have increased surface water runoff. Rain gardens help to improve surface water management while providing amenity, reducing pollution and enhancing biodiversity.
Meristem Design specialises in installing rain gardens that increase climate resilience and support local wildlife while adding beauty to your outdoor space.
We design and deliver hardy and drought tolerant planting schemes to ensure the sustainable drainage system can tolerate fluctuating weather conditions, creating resilient green areas for the public realm, schools and more.


Rain Gardens in the public realm
Rain gardens can transform how the public realm is designed. When integrated into public spaces, streets, nature gardens and transport hubs they become multifunctional green infrastructure that enhances daily life for communities.
Beyond their technical function, rain gardens provide visible, living infrastructure that reconnects people with nature in the heart of the city and demonstrates how climate adaptation can enhance the everyday public realm.
Rain gardens range from small-scale through to larger schemes and can be installed in most public spaces such as roadsides, high streets, pocket parks, high-traffic areas and alongside bike lanes.
Rain Gardens for schools
Installing school rain gardens are not only beneficial for rainwater management but they also create engaging outdoor spaces that are perfect for educating school children about the environment, nature, biodiversity and climate change.
School children can get involved in rain garden planting - providing them the opportunity to interact with the plants and get their hands dirty, all whilst learning about the importance of flood-resilience. It also gives them a sense of ownership over their new green space, allowing them to watch as the plants grow and establish.
Rain gardens can be installed inside the school grounds in playgrounds, reducing the risk of flooding and school disruptions. We also install rain gardens outside of schools to prevent cars idling, helping to improve air quality for the young children. By stopping cars from parking too close to school gates this also creates safer and greener environments.


Rain Gardens on residential roads
Repurposing parking spaces down residential roads to make space for rain gardens is an effective way to make streets greener, more resilient and people-focused. They can also help bring communities together, particularly if they are involved in the design, planting or ongoing maintenance process.
By replacing hard, impermeable surfaces with planted areas that capture and filter rainwater, these spaces help reduce local flooding, improve water quality and support biodiversity for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.
What were once car-dominated areas can become pockets of natures that cool the street, create habitat for pollinators, and make neighbourhoods more pleasant for everyone - showing how both small and large design interventions can deliver big environmental and social benefits.
Benefits
Low Maintenance
Supports Wildlife
Reduces Flooding and Erosion
Cleans Water Naturally

Local authorities

Education
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sustainable landscaping?
Sustainable landscaping is an approach that works with nature to create green spaces that are low-impact, long-lasting and environmentally friendly. It includes using native or climate-resilient plants, improving soil health, managing water runoff, and reducing the need for irrigation or chemicals.
Do you offer maintenance after installation?
We can provide seasonal and year-round maintenance services to ensure your landscaping stays healthy and looks its best — available when you choose us as your maintenance provider.
Can you help with both landscape design and installation?
Yes, we can work with existing designs, collaborate with your team, or offer a full service tailored to your space.
What type of landscaping projects do you work on?
We work across public realm, commercial and community spaces, including streetsides, schools and green infrastructure projects.
How much does landscaping cost?
Costs depend on the scale, complexity and materials involved. We can provide a tailored estimate once we understand your project needs.
How do I choose the right plants for my space?
We consider soil type, sunlight, maintenance needs and biodiversity goals when selecting plants to ensure visual appeal and long-term success.
What are the benefits of landscaping in urban spaces?
Landscaping can increase biodiversity, reduce surface water runoff, improve air quality and create spaces that are more attractive, welcoming and usable for people.
What’s the difference between hard and soft landscaping?
Soft landscaping focuses on living elements like planting, trees and turf. Hard landscaping includes structural features such as paving, edging and decking.
What is Landscaping?
Landscaping involves the design, installation and maintenance of outdoor spaces. Focusing aesthetic appeal and functional use.
How does urban greening contribute to combatting climate change?
Urban greening is a potent weapon against the escalating threats of climate change. Green spaces, including trees and vegetation, act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing harmful CO2 emissions. They also combat the urban heat island effect by providing shade and cooling through evapotranspiration. Moreover, green spaces play a role in filtering air pollutants and improving overall air quality. These combined benefits not only make cities more liveable but also contribute to global efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Projects like Richmond Road Pocket Park showcase the transformative power of urban greening, highlighting its crucial role in creating sustainable and resilient urban environments.
How do rain gardens work?
The shallow depression collects and filters rainwater from impermeable surfaces such as roofs, driveways and streets. By capturing runoff, this allows water to infiltrate through soil and plant roots, filtering and slowing the flow to reduce pressure on the drainage network.
When is the best time to build a rain garden?
Although a rain garden can be installed anytime the ground is not frozen, the optimum time for this is when the soil is sufficiently dry enough to work with. For the best establishment of plants, early autumn to spring is advised.
What are rain gardens best planted with?
The ideal rain garden plants are moisture-tolerant species which have deep root systems to enhance water absorption into the soil while also enduring dry periods. Native plants are always recommended as they are well adapted to local growing conditions and support wildlife.
What maintenance is required for rain gardens?
As plants establish, regular watering will be required. The SuDS also benefit from weeding, pruning, replanting if needed, and ensuring drainage inlets remain clear.





























































































