Designed & planted in October 2022, this 160 sqm large commercial roof garden design behind the Bank of England EC2 is a lush biodiversity haven, with copious wildlife plant species for all seasons. 50 species in 50 custom-made planters feature diverse deciduous trees, woody shrubs & ornamental grasses, growing untamed & lovingly maintained.
Project Name: Bank Roof Garden Urban Biodiversity in the City
Studio Name: Mylandscapes LTD
There are 3 roof terraces here. The 2 lower ones flanking the main terrace feature singular trees. The main roof garden has 5 distinct zones. 2 perpendicular lines of troughs planted with Bog Myrtle, Quaking, Switchgrass & Purple Moor grasses create 3 seating areas for staff & clients.
The oblong building elevation at 50 metres long, features a dozen low troughs of Gossamer grasses & meadow perennials. The ultimate zone by the CEO’s office window features a Climbing Rose arch, a Rowan tree and planters with grasses & herbs.
We’ve planted Gossamer grasses with native Lythrum and meadow perennials to create a profuse, rich urban grassland. Selected tree species include Paperbark Maple, Serviceberry, Birch, Paper Mulberry, Dogwood, Silverbell, Magnolia, Osmanthus, Rowan & Lilac, interlaced with perennials such as Materwort, Pincushion Flower, Knapweed, Aven & Germander. The star of the summer show is Lythrum salicaria, the native purple Loosestrife, with outstanding, pollinator-friendly mauve flowers.
The abundant biodiversity attracts highly valuable pollinators & local birds, maintained organically by hand weeding, no pesticides or herbicides, peat-free soil & minimal pruning. This sparse intervention creates a balance between people & nature, benefiting both, where staff, clients & visitors can appreciate the importance of seasonal change, multisensory flora, culinary herbs & learn about environmental stewardship.
