Glaxo SmithKline

GSK appointed PHS Greenleaf to complete the interiorscaping at the stunning new global HQ in London. The planting reflects the company’s workspace ethos of life work and harmony.

Keith Kirkham visited the American nurseries of South East Growers to select rows of 7.5m Ficus nitada trees. These were taken from the open ground and acclimatised over a 2-year period. The trees were to run the length of the street which is a glass open atrium. The central café area provided a relaxing training area in which to work. Zamioculcus are planted in specially designed containers with built-in data ports for staff laptops, whilst a water feature “harmonises” the area. An additional 1200 plants were installed throughout the offices in colour-coded containers, ranging in material from aluminium to stainless steel and hand-made ceramic.

The vast difference in the light levels between the north and south of the building was a challenge when specifying plants. Over 36 species and varieties were used in the scheme including 20-year-old Cacti. Special tree containers were also designed to allow easy rotation of the Ficus nitida.

 Photo 1 (opposite)

Clusters of 7.5m Ficus nitada can be viewed from the skywalks in the open atrium, affectionately know as “The Street”.

Strelitzia line the entrance to the café area and provide colour and interest when in flower.

 Photo 2: (opposite) 

Complimenting GSK’s workplace ethos of “Work, Life, Harmony”, Ficus nitada provides a shaded area within the café area, allowing staff to relax or work away from their desks. Zamioculcus zamifolia and a water feature further add a relaxed, informal area for staff enjoyment.

Photo 3 (opposite)  

Sanseveria in matching colour co-ordinated stands, blend with furniture in the staff breakout areas overlooking The Street

Photo 4 (opposite)

Matching 4.5m Adonidia palms within the café area. Ash planters with built-in data ports allow staff to work flexibly in all areas of the building

Photo 5 (opposite)  

Hand-made terracotta planters with Euphorbia abyssinica enjoy a sunny position at the south end of the building

  Photo 6 (opposite)  

1.8m A line of Nolina recurvatas look stunning in the South side entrance

  Photo 7 (opposite)

Throughout the offices, we carefully colour co-ordinated planters to contrast with the décor. Zamiocilcus zamifolia in red containers work well against a purple screen