Creating a Buzz at 10 New Burlington Street Mews

Read how The Crown Estate used planting to create a greener, more welcoming seating

The challenge

The seating area at 10 New Burlington Street Mews was rarely used, despite being located directly outside reception. Hard landscaping dominated the space, with a single living screen providing the only greenery. This underuse reflects wider urban design research showing that greener spaces are more attractive to people, encouraging greater use, longer dwell times and a more enjoyable experience.

For The Crown Estate, this presented an opportunity to create a more attractive, welcoming customer space while adding food and habitat for insects and birds.

The Solution

To meet the site’s load-bearing constraints, lightweight planters made from recycled fishing nets were filled with nectar-rich plants that support pollinators and other invertebrates.

The varied planting palette includes RHS-recommended pollinator-friendly and Award of Garden Merit species. Selected for long flowering periods, fragrance and seasonal interest, it provides year-round colour, food and habitat for insects and birds.

We'd love to hear your feedback, as well as any relevant research, insights, or lessons learned that could help inform our approach.

Member:

The Crown Estate

Green Infrastructure Type:

Ground level planters, Green Sitting area

Ecosystem Services provided:

Biodiversity Net Gain, Ecological and Social Connectivity

The new lightweight planters, made from recycled fishing nets, were filled with nectar-rich planting to support pollinators and biodiversity

The Impact

Customer use increased immediately, alongside positive feedback on the planting and requests for more seating. This supports research showing that people are naturally drawn to nature and confirms that the space is now more attractive and welcoming.

The project created 11.8m² of green space, transforming an underused area into an asset for people and wildlife. It gives customers a place to sit while providing year-round interest, food and habitat for insects and birds.