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OUR PROJECTS
Creating a statement feature that did more than look good
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 specifically for the interior
Integrated infrastructure
Growing tanks concealed behind the wall
Productive planting
Regular fresh-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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an office Farm be part of a workplace fit-out?
Yes. In this project, Square Mile Farms was involved from the beginning of the refit and worked alongside the architects and designers to integrate the Farmwall into the interior.
Can an office Farm be bespoke?
Yes. The Farmwall for this project required a bespoke floating structure with rounded corners and a stone-effect Corian finish.
Where does the water tank go in an office Farm?
The infrastructure depends on the installation. For this project, the Farmwall mechanism was redesigned so the growing structure could sit flush with the wall while the tanks were concealed in a cupboard behind it.
How many plants can an office Farm grow?
Farm capacity depends on the installation. This bespoke Farmwall holds 315 plants at any one time.
What happens to food grown in an office Farm?
At this workplace, fresh produce is regularly harvested for the building's occupants. Harvest sessions also give employees an opportunity to participate in the Farm and learn more about food production.
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.
Planning a workplace fit-out?
Talk to Square Mile Farms early in the design process to explore how food growing could be integrated into your scheme.