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An interactive statement feature
During the refit of its office, this client wanted to create a statement installation within an already carefully considered interior. But rather than simply filling the wall with a decorative feature, the team wanted the installation to have a purpose and contribute to the building's community.
There was also a significant design challenge. The installation needed to appear as a floating structure with rounded corners and a seamless stone-like finish, while accommodating all the infrastructure required to grow fresh produce indoors.
Client requirements
315
plants
Growing at any one time
Bespoke
design
Created for the interior
Integrated infrastructure
Tanks hidden behind wall
Productive planting
Regular produce harvests
Designing the Farm into the fitout
Square Mile Farms joined the project at the start of the refit, working alongside the architectural and design teams rather than trying to adapt a standard Farmwall to a finished scheme.
The Farmwall mechanism was redesigned so that the growing structure could sit flush against the wall. The tanks and associated infrastructure were positioned within a cupboard behind it, keeping the technical elements out of sight.
Corian was used to achieve the appearance of stone while remaining light enough for the wall-mounted installation.
The Farm has three main purposes:
1
It's a biophilic feature that doesn't compromise the interior
The Farmwall was designed to feel like part of the architecture rather than something applied afterwards.
2
It's a statement feature with a practical purpose
Rather than introducing a purely decorative installation, the Farmwall has capacity for 315 plants, producing regular harvests for the people using the building.
3
It's a feature employees can participate in
Employees don't just walk past the Farm. Regular harvest sessions offer an opportunity to spend time together and learn about where food comes from.
Could a bespoke office Farm work in your project?
This type of installation could be relevant if you're:
A workplace design team looking to integrate productive biophilia into a workplace scheme.
An asset manager looking for a distinctive amenity that combines design, sustainability and workplace experience.
A facilities team looking for ways to encourage employee participation and connection.
A food services team exploring visible initiatives around food production and local food.
