Urban Nature Project

The Urban Nature Project (UNP) has reimagined the Natural History Museum’s (NHM) five-acre gardens in South Kensington, creating a sustainable, accessible, and biodiverse space. As part of the NHM’s Urban Nature Movement, the project is a landmark initiative for urban nature recovery across the UK.

A Tale of Two Gardens
The redevelopment transformed the museum’s outdoor spaces into two unique environments:

1. The Evolution Garden, featuring a bronze Diplodocus named Fern, tells the story of Earth’s 2.7-billion-year history through geology and planting.

2. The Nature Discovery Garden invites visitors to engage with nature, learning to monitor and study biodiversity in urban environments.

Pioneering Sustainability
The project set new standards for low-carbon, sustainable construction, winning the Silver Prize for Europe at the Holcim Foundation Awards for Sustainable Construction 2023. Its modern methods of construction (MMC) have influenced best practices for future projects across the industry.

A Celebrated Public Landmark
The UNP received widespread acclaim, with The Guardian calling it a “cultural triumph” and architecture critic Rowan Moore ranking it among the five best projects of 2024. The Princess of Wales, a project patron, praised its transformative impact on visitors.

A Lasting Legacy for Urban Nature
Beyond its stunning design, the UNP provides scientific tools and skills essential for monitoring and protecting urban biodiversity. By setting a benchmark for sustainable urban redevelopment, it ensures that cities can embrace nature and inspire future generations.

Watch the project video: Walter Lilly – Natural History Museum

Social Media channels: LinkedIn: Walter Lilly Twitter: @walterlilly1924

Credited Organisations: Feilden Fowles, J&L Gibbons, Gitta Gschwendtner, engineersHRW, Max Fordam & Mace