The gardens of the former Mountbatten House in Basingstoke have been transformed as part of the redevelopment of the iconic site.

Architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios and landscape architects Grant Associates led the overall concept and detailed design for the modernist building and gardens.

Now rebranded as Plant Basingstoke, the building – which was originally designed in 1973 by Peter Foggo and Arup Associates Group 2 – features six levels of commercial space, with tiered roof gardens by garden designer James Russell.

It received a RIBA award in 1979 and was Grade II listed in 2015. The recent revamp has seen the building entrance and reception area expanded and redesigned with a helical staircase added. Various new facilities have also been added, such as a café and gym.

New level access has been created for the gardens and roof terraces which have become known as the ‘hanging gardens of Basingstoke’.

The listed landscape has been designed to be climate resilient and regenerative, using research in the archives at the University of York which includes Russell’s handwritten planting lists. Species poorly suited to exposed rooftop conditions have been replaced and encouraging biodiversity has been taken into consideration.

More than 22,500 new plants have been introduced, along with 86 new trees to complement those already on the site.

Winding pathways and new seating areas have also been added, whilst a lot of the existing hardscape has been restored. Every original paving element across the garden levels was recorded and catalogued, before being temporarily removed through construction, and then placed back in situ. A contemporary water feature has replaced a deteriorating pond in the Level 2 courtyard.

“Our approach in helping to bring this amazing building and series of gardens back to life, has been to honour the original vision of seamlessly blending architecture and landscape. This project provided a unique opportunity to not only preserve the legacy of Peter Foggo and James Russell but also to enhance it for future generations,” says Keith French, director at Grant Associates.

“By prioritising nature, wellbeing, and sustainability, we’ve created an environment that reflects the changing needs of the modern workplace while staying true to the building’s pioneering spirit.”

Twelve Architects and landscape architects Studio Knight Stokoe were brought on board to sensitively manage the design and delivery phase.

“For those who’ll work and visit here, Plant offers a daily reminder of nature’s importance in our lives,” says Martin Knight, director at Studio Knight Stokoe.

“This project goes beyond preserving history or creating office space. It’s about shaping a place that positively impacts people and the environment. It’s been a pleasure to be part of the team bringing our client’s vision to life.”