Occupier experience and wellness 

Sitting at the gateway to London’s former Smithfield meat market, the JJ Mack Building takes its name from a trader who started selling vegetables from a street barrow and eventually built an impressive store. The new building is one of the smartest and most sustainable buildings in the UK. As well as achieving an unprecedented rating of 96.42% in its BREEAM assessment, it also sets new standards for occupier experience and wellness, so it was no surprise that biophilia was an integral part of this project. Planting was to play a central role for everyone, not just a privileged few.

Planting for everyone 

Large clusters of floor standing plants and tabletop troughs are used generously throughout the space. User experience was front of mind throughout this project, even down to the herb planters in the kitchen so that staff can freshly garnish their lunch! The living planting extends onto the outdoor terrace area, and this will all be maintained in tip top condition on an ongoing basis by our skilled plant maintenance team – this comes as standard under our rental option. 

Upmarket continental vibe

One of our favourite areas in this project is the coffee lounge. Lush tropical planting complements squishy leather chairs and the glossy tiled bar, giving a continental coffee bar vibe. We carefully designed the cluster formations in this space, and they take pride of place next to the floor-to-ceiling windows, with fabulous views out over the City of London. 

Collaborating with fellow designers

The design consultancy wanted a warm colour pallet throughout the space and we worked with them to source options to accordingly. We used a range of metallic pots in shades of anthracite, bronze and champagne, which perfectly complement the rich tones of rust and terracotta used in the décor. These colours are a perfect foil for the vibrant green of giant palms, fig trees and variegated dieffenbachia.

Social climber

A central stairwell is clothed in the glossy leaves of a climbing philodendron which clamber upwards, creating a large green wall. A lower storey of planting has been included in the joinery to enhance the display, with seating provided for anyone who wants to soak in a bit of nature.

Our products used on this project

– Living EnviroLeaf planting
– Exterior live planting solutions
– Floorstanding clusters, potted plants, and recycled planters
– Tabletop troughs
– Planted furniture
– Bespoke planted joinery‍

Planting route

Rental option with maintenance as standard‍

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Powered by renewable heating and power and using 70% less water, the JJ Mack Building really puts nature first, in the very heart of the City, even down to the bee colonies on the roof. The inspired design and generous use of planting throughout this project also makes it a wonderful place to work.

If you want to discuss your project requirements or simply enquire about our selection of plants, feel free to get in touch today!