Twelve Architects Unveils Retro-Fit of Basingstoke’s Hanging Gardens

The architectural marvel formerly known as Mountbatten House in Basingstoke has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as Plant Basingstoke. This redevelopment project, spearheaded by Longstock Capital for the client Mactaggart Family & Partners, has rejuvenated the iconic modernist structure into a state-of-the-art workspace. The building now boasts over 19,500 square meters of multi-let office and amenity space, embodying a perfect blend of historical preservation and modern innovation. The project not only honors the original vision of Peter Foggo and Arup Associates but also integrates contemporary design principles that prioritize sustainability, wellbeing, and connectivity with nature.

The Legacy of Mountbatten House

Originally designed in 1973 by Peter Foggo and Arup Associates Group 2, Mountbatten House was conceived as the UK headquarters of paper manufacturers Wiggins Teape. The building, along with its terraced roof gardens designed by James Russell, was listed by English Heritage in 2015, recognizing its significance within British modernist architecture and horticulture. The gardens were added to the Register of Parks and Gardens at Grade II, further cementing their historical importance.

Architectural Significance

Mountbatten House is considered one of the most important listed modernist buildings in Britain. Its design was ahead of its time, emphasizing the integration of nature within office spaces. This prescient approach created a legacy that continues to inspire contemporary architectural practices.

Historical Preservation

The refurbishment project aimed to preserve the unique character of Foggo’s original design while updating the building to meet modern standards. This delicate balance was achieved through meticulous planning and execution, ensuring that the building’s historical essence was retained.

Modern Innovations and Sustainability

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios was initially selected in 2019 to revamp the building, obtaining planning approval and listed building consent. The design was taken up to Stage 3, after which Twelve Architects completed Stages 4-6, including design variations under approval of conditions. The project incorporated several modern innovations to enhance the building’s functionality and sustainability.

Enhanced Interiors

Inside, a redesigned and expanded entrance and reception area strengthens the visual connection to the gardens. A new helical staircase marks this space, creating a striking focal point. New double-height spaces have been formed to create vertical connections between floors, drawing more natural light into the plan. The original curtain wall system has been refurbished to improve the building’s thermal performance, while the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems have been upgraded.

New Amenities

The building now includes a range of new facilities designed to enhance the tenant experience:

• Café
• Gym
• Shower and changing rooms
• Secure cycle storage
• Multipurpose function space

Revitalized Hanging Gardens

The project also focused on revitalizing the famous ‘hanging gardens of Basingstoke’. Grant Associates designed the landscaping to Stage 4, obtaining planning approval and listed consent in 2019. Subsequently, Studio Knight Stokoe obtained planning and listed building consent for an amended landscape scheme in 2024, based on the principles established in the Grant Associates design.

Climate-Resilient Landscaping

The listed landscaping has been adapted to be climate-resilient, regenerative, and to foster biodiversity. Over 2,500 new plants and 86 new trees have been introduced, taking inspiration from the original design vision for the gardens to be *informal, elaborate, romantic, overflowing, and tumbling*. Much of the existing hardscaping has been restored, with every original paving element across the garden levels reused.

Spaces for Relaxation and Reflection

Access to the gardens and roof terraces has been improved, with pathways and new seating areas offering spaces for relaxation and reflection. This connection to nature is not just an aesthetic choice but a core principle of the design, promoting wellbeing and a sense of tranquility for those who work and visit the building.

A Benchmark for Future Office Design

Plant Basingstoke sets new standards for the future of office design, with sustainability at its core and a pending BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification. The project exemplifies how historical preservation and modern innovation can coexist, creating spaces that are both functional and inspiring.

Team Effort and Vision

The success of this project is a testament to the collaborative effort of the entire team, including Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Twelve Architects, Grant Associates, and Studio Knight Stokoe. Each team member brought their expertise and passion to the project, ensuring that the original vision was honored while meeting the needs of the modern workplace.

Client and Developer Contributions

The client, Mactaggart Family & Partners, and the developer, Longstock Capital, played crucial roles in bringing this vision to life.

Their commitment to delivering remarkable buildings that positively impact people and the environment has resulted in a workspace that is not only functional but also nurturing and inspiring.

In conclusion, the transformation of Mountbatten House into Plant Basingstoke is a shining example of how architectural heritage can be preserved while embracing modern innovations.

This project goes beyond creating office space; it shapes a place where people and nature thrive in harmony.

For more details about this incredible redevelopment, visit the Architects Journal article.