In today’s cities, finding smart ways to handle rainwater is more important than ever. Rain Gardens and SuDS Planters are innovative solutions that address this need. At Meristem Design, our focus is on transforming urban spaces into areas that are not only green but also sustainable and beneficial for the community.
Award-winning SuDS Planters
Our SuDS planters have been recognised with the Flood & Coast Award as part of the Climate Resilient Schools program, in collaboration with the Greater London Authority, the Department for Education, and Thames Water. This award reflects our commitment to innovative and effective climate resilience strategies.
We designed, built, and installed 564 SuDS Rain Planters in 72 of London's schools most vulnerable to flooding. Through this project, we aimed to create sustainable, climate-resilient environments while educating children on the importance of nature in combatting global warming.
Our SuDS planters are designed for eco-friendly stormwater management, featuring an internal reservoir and slow-release drainage system that efficiently manages roof runoff, providing sustainable flood control. Made in our London workshop, our planters can incorporate traditional shingle or opt for the Hydrorock® system - an advanced solution that significantly outperforms traditional methods in water absorption.
Here’s why our planters are exceptional for urban settings:
Effective Water Management: With a 94% water absorption rate and the ability to hold 142 litres of water per square meter, our planters excel in rainwater management. They support plant hydration for up to 28 days through an efficient water distribution mechanism.
Eco-friendly Design: Constructed from sustainably sourced wood or durable, powder-coated steel, our planters contribute to environmental sustainability. Our involvement in initiatives such as the Climate Resilient Schools program reaffirms our dedication to promoting resilient urban environments in the face of climate challenges.
Customisable Solutions: Available in various sizes, colours, and shapes, our SuDS Planters can be tailored to meet the unique requirements of different projects, making them suitable for a wide range of urban applications. They are perfect for new buildings, homes, businesses, and schools.
Exploring Rain Gardens
Rain Gardens are designed to capture and filter rainwater from impermeable surfaces, offering a natural solution for stormwater management. These gardens not only help in reducing flood risks but also support water purification and biodiversity enhancement. Our projects, like the ones in Waltham Forest, show how we can make neighbourhoods nicer and greener with Rain Gardens.
Key Differences
SuDS Planters offer complete customisation, with options for size, shape, and colour, to suit the specific needs and aesthetic preferences of any project.
Installation Considerations:
SuDS Planters are pre-designed for easy integration into various settings, ideal for locations with limited space. Rain Gardens require specific conditions for installation and are best suited for areas that can accommodate natural infiltration.
Water Management Efficiency:
Our planters are engineered to address urban drainage challenges effectively. In contrast, Rain Gardens focus on gradual water absorption and environmental enrichment.
Versatile Applications:
SuDS Planters are versatile and can be deployed in diverse environments, including educational, residential, and commercial areas. Rain Gardens are particularly effective in enhancing public and communal spaces with their ecological benefits.
The Benefits of SuDS Planters in Schools for Kids and Learning
Schools are not just places for learning maths and reading. They're also spaces where kids can learn about the environment and how to look after it. SuDS Planters have become a big part of this learning at schools like Springfield Community Primary School.
““Our school had the SuDs planters installed in the majority of our drain pipes in January 2023. Previously to this we have really struggled with flooding when there is heavy rain, across the school but especially in our playground. The water has always pooled in very large areas which cause significant disruption to our children, staff and parents. Due to old drainage systems, the water would settle there for long after the rain had stopped interrupting football which is a big no-no!
Since we’ve had the SuDs installed we have seen a dramatic decrease in the amount of pooling water in our playground. Apart from the practical benefits, the children have loved learning about the types of plants used in them, and it has brought to life lessons around sustainability and water cycles. I could not recommend them more highly. “”
Schools like Springfield Community Primary are showing how these planters can be a part of making the future better by teaching kids about sustainability. Putting SuDS Planters in schools is smart because they fix two big problems at once. They reduce flooding and they're also a great tool for teaching kids about the environment in a fun and interactive way. It's a way to help kids see how they can make a difference in taking care of the planet, starting with their own schoolyard.
Enhancing Urban Resilience
Through our work, including the installation of over 100 Rain Gardens and the fabrication of 664 SuDS Rain Planters in schools, we demonstrate our dedication to improving urban resilience against climate change. These initiatives not only address environmental challenges but also contribute to creating more enjoyable community spaces.
Conclusion
The choice between SuDS Planters and Rain Gardens depends on the specific needs of your project and your environmental goals. At Meristem Design, we are committed to delivering solutions that effectively manage rainwater while contributing to the greening of urban areas. Our innovative designs are focused on enhancing the quality of urban life through sustainability.
For further information on how our SuDS Planters or Rain Gardens can contribute to your project, please contact us through the form here.
Let's collaborate to create greener, more sustainable urban spaces :)
