Flora-tec Case Studies

Flora-tec case study: Sharp, Uxbridge. June 07

Design Brief
A new planting design was required for the central atrium area and open plan office areas of Sharp’s new modern building.

Sharp was keen that the interior landscaping should complement its products’ hi-tech image, promote its offices’ Japanese theme and incorporate plants that would thrive.

Solution
As you enter the building’s reception area through the security barriers, a large, bright atrium space opens up before you. The atrium has a central seating area, with a flat screen television on the far wall framed on either side with two Bonsai Ginseng Ficus trees.

A large 2.5 metre Bonsai Panda Ficus sits at the far side of the atrium, with Orchids in glass cubes adding to the design’s Japanese flavour.

On the first floor, four Polyscaius Fabiana hang over the edge of the glass balustrade to create a soft weeping effect down into the atrium below.

In the main body of the building, the open plan areas are dressed with various specimen plants in cream white containers. Planting has been brought to eye level with the use of bowls planted with Crassula and Sanseviera Hahni.

All compost benefits from a top dressing of white pebbles as part of the client’s specification, tying the plants into the building’s Japanese theme.

Maintenance
Aftercare maintenance of the planting is of paramount importance for the plants’ well-being and longevity. A twice-monthly visit regime keeps the planting in tip top condition and enables the technicians to detect any potential health issues.

We used a reduced-peat compost, which incorporated an insecticide and nutrient to benefit the planting whilst it was establishing, and a regular check for any signs of pests is carried out and organic treatment applied when necessary.

The planting has thrived with very careful pruning to keep the bonsai specimens in shape.

All planters have watering systems; our research has confirmed that this encourages roots to grow deeper, and the plants are stronger and healthier. The planting is checked regularly to ensure that each plant gets the correct amount of water. This site also benefits from a slow release fertiliser regime which ensures controlled application throughout the seasons.

A regular quarterly meeting takes place between the facilities Manager and the senior Management to ensure the health & safety documentation, COSHH details Method Statements and Risk assessments are kept up to date.

Carolyn, an experienced and highly trained technician, maintains this site with regular input from her Manager to ensure standards remain high.

Sharp has been delighted with the polite professionalism of our staff. Xx commented:

“The maintenance technician is excellent. She often works before anyone starts and is always neat, tidy and polite. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Flora-tec to any prospective clients.”