The last major project overseen by planting professor Nigel Dunnett will open to the public later this month in central London, following a £25 million restoration of Grosvenor Square.
The 300-year-old square reopens on July 20, marking only the fourth redesign in its history. Dunnett, who died in April, developed the planting strategy for the project, which reflects his belief that urban settings should work for both people and nature.
From concrete to a living setting
Before the redesign, less than 1% of Grosvenor Square was planted. Now, nearly half of the space is dedicated to greenery—70,000 new plants across 63 species, 88,000 bulbs, 44 trees, and two wetland areas. The changes reflect Dunnett’s ethos.
Nigel believed that urban settings should work for both people and nature.
The redesign was led by architecture firm Tonkin Liu and delivered by design practice BDP. It addresses climate challenges like urban flooding and rising temperatures, with features that allow the square to absorb 1.4 million litres of stormwater. The planting is designed to thrive through wet winters and hot summers, conditions that are becoming more common in London.
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A park shaped by public demand
The project was informed by feedback from over 7,000 Londoners, who wanted a space that was safer, more welcoming, and usable year-round. New pathways, seating, and woodland areas encourage visitors to linger, while an education centre will offer programmes on biodiversity and climate change.
Early signs suggest the square is already supporting wildlife. In the weeks before opening, ducks, butterflies, and dragonflies were spotted using the site—a preview of the richer ecosystem expected as the plants mature.
James Raynor, chief executive of Grosvenor Property, said the redesign was driven by necessity, not just aesthetics. “We challenged ourselves to consider not only what looks good, but what the city actually needs,” he said. “The result is a garden where climate resilience, biodiversity, and access are built into every part of the design.”
The square’s transformation began a decade ago, part of a broader shift in how cities approach public spaces. With resilience at its core, the park will provide a calm and rich environment for people in the heart of the city.
