Arcade, Tottenham Court Road

Meristem Design have completed an innovative indoor planting and bespoke planters installation project at Arcade Food Hall and Bar, located in the iconic Centre Point Building in Central London.

Working with Arcade

The brief was to design and install an outdoor seating area which provides protection from the elements and that frames the space. Meristem delivered custom planters from treated softwood painted in a rich olive green shade.

DESIGN Features:

The addition of hardwood folding benches allows the restaurant to close down the space at night providing the opportunity to open the space up for networking events whilst helping to reduce anti-social behaviour.

Meristem Design also sourced and installed a number of terracotta planters with olive trees in to add to the vibrant environment.

The space can be reconfigured as required and can also be collapsed down and stored within the end section in bad weather.

Incorporating nature into our space has truly enhanced the environment. The new installations have not only elevated the aesthetic appeal of our food hall but also improved the overall atmosphere for our customers. We are extremely happy with the results!
— Matt Wade, General Manager at Arcade Food Hall and Bar

Inspired by street market culture, Arcade’s interior and terrace area have been enhanced through the introduction of lush greenery, complementing the food hall’s design and creating a visually appealing environment. The indoor plants were re-planted and refreshed with a variety that were more well suited to their space. Meristem Design will be carrying out a maintenance service in both the indoor and outside areas to help keep the plants healthy.

Biophilic design: improving wellbeing in a healthier environment

The new green installations not only boost the vibrancy and aesthetics of the bar, but also promotes wellbeing and relaxation through biophilic design elements, overall improving customer experience.

Meristem designed and installed bespoke planters to seamlessly integrate with the existing features and decor, adding splashes of green and colour whilst also utilising indoor plants to purify and improve air quality, contributing to a healthier environment.

What are the benefits of biophilic design?

Biophilic design offers numerous benefits to both individuals and the built environment. Some key benefits include:

  1. Improved well-being: Exposure to nature has been linked to reduced stress, improved mental health, increased productivity, and enhanced cognitive function. Biophilic design elements, such as living walls, green roofs, and natural lighting, help create a connection with nature, resulting in these positive effects.

  2. Enhanced air quality: Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving indoor and outdoor air quality. Integrating plants into the built environment through biophilic design helps reduce pollutants and create a healthier atmosphere.

  3. Increased biodiversity: Biophilic design incorporates natural habitats, providing opportunities for wildlife to thrive in urban areas. Green roofs, rain gardens, and bioswales create habitats for birds, butterflies, and other beneficial organisms, enhancing urban biodiversity.

  4. Energy efficiency: Green infrastructure elements like green roofs and shading from trees can help reduce energy consumption by providing insulation, reducing the urban heat island effect, and lowering cooling needs in buildings.

  5. Aesthetically pleasing spaces: Biophilic design elements contribute to the visual appeal of spaces, creating calming and soothing environments that promote relaxation and positive experiences.