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PROJECTS » EDINBURGH AIRPORT (LEGACY PROJECTS)

LEGACY PROJECTS: EDINBURGH AIRPORT

This retrospective revisits our landmark installation at Edinburgh Airport, celebrating one of the most memorable projects in our thirty-plus years of business.

While some of the pictures might now look a little dated, our approach here underscores the enduring connection between nature and human wellbeing, a principle which remains at the heart of our work today.

THE BRIEF:

When the new main terminal building at Edinburgh Airport was first constructed, we were awarded the contract to enhance the terminal’s aesthetic appeal through strategic interior landscaping. Winning a competitive tender, our goal was to create a visually striking and welcoming environment within a specified budget. The challenge was not only to design an impactful display but also to maintain it in the high-traffic and security-conscious environment of an international airport.

THE SOLUTION:

Our solution involved a combination of large feature plants, robust containers, and strategic placement to maximise visual impact and functionality. Key elements included:

Large Trees: We installed several 4-meter high Ficus Benjamina trees in the departure lounges. These trees served to soften the space and provide a natural, calming atmosphere for travelers.
Robust Containers: To withstand the high-traffic environment, we used durable metal containers, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.
Feature Banana Plants: Placed prominently in the main entrance atrium, the Banana plants became an unexpected highlight. Positioned in front of the terminal’s glass window, they thrived in the radiated heat, growing rapidly and even producing edible bananas.
Planting Groups: Strategically placed to guide travellers towards the departure gates, these groups not only added aesthetic value but also served a functional purpose in the busy terminal.

Over time, as the airport’s footfall increased and space became more valuable, the number of plants was reduced. However, the remaining plants continued to play a crucial role in maintaining the aesthetic and environmental quality of the terminal spaces.

THE RESULTS:

The installation of these plant displays had an immediate and positive impact on the ambiance of Edinburgh Airport.

Highlights include:

Edible Bananas: The Banana plants in the main atrium produced edible bananas, a surprising and delightful outcome that captured the attention of both passengers and the national press. This unique feature provided a touch of paradise, making the airport experience more enjoyable and memorable.
Speaking with The Herald, Airport spokesman Malcolm Robertson said: ”It is a strange sight and holidaymakers have been intrigued by the tree. We have seen lots of people having their photo taken beside it.”
He said the tree gave passengers a taste of their sun-soaked holiday before they had even left the airport.
”When you think of Edinburgh Airport you tend to think of the grey and miserable weather and waiting for your flight can make the holiday seem a long way off.
”But the banana tree brings a little piece of paradise to the airport and waiting under it for a flight is the ideal start to a holiday.
”In fact, why fly to the Caribbean when you can just come as far as the airport?”
Enhanced Traveler Experience: The presence of large trees and plant groups helped create a more restful and attractive environment, contributing to a positive traveler experience. The plants also played a role in increasing humidity, reducing dust, and cleaning pollutants from the air.
National Recognition: The success of our initial installation at Edinburgh Airport led to us being awarded the contract for all Scottish airports three years later, including Glasgow and Aberdeen.

Our project at Edinburgh Airport showcases an early example of how we use plant displays to enhance public spaces. The unexpected success of the Banana plants and the subsequent national attention are testaments to the creative approach we pride ourselves on.

Contact Us

From airports to arenas and everything in between, we’re passionate about the benefits plants can bring to commercial spaces. For more information or to discuss requirements for your next project, please contact us on 01324 861300 or mail@benholm.com.