Urban Nature Project

The Natural History Museum’s (NHM) Urban Nature Project (UNP) is a landmark initiative aimed at transforming South Kensington’s five-acre gardens into a welcoming, accessible, and biodiverse green space. As part of the national Urban Nature Movement, this project aligns with NHM’s strategic goal of creating a resilient and sustainable organisation, while developing educational gardens and galleries that inspire future generations.

Pioneering Sustainability & Innovation
The project set ambitious sustainability targets, ensuring a low-carbon redevelopment using cutting-edge construction methods. It has been internationally recognised, winning the Silver Prize for Europe at the Holcim Foundation Awards for Sustainable Construction 2023.

A bespoke set of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), tailored to the unique nature of the project, drove best practices in climate action, resource efficiency, pollution control, and responsible procurement. These KPIs were fully integrated into the design and construction process, ensuring the highest standards of sustainability, accessibility, and educational impact.

Setting New Industry Benchmarks
1. Innovation in Sustainable Construction – The UNP introduced Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) never before used in the UK. This approach set new benchmarks for sustainability and resource efficiency, providing a blueprint for future projects across the industry.

2. Award-Winning Climate Action – The Holcim Foundation Award recognised the UNP as a leading example of international sustainable best practice, further cementing NHM’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

3. Client Satisfaction & Lasting Impact – NHM’s vision of creating an urban educational sanctuary has been successfully realised. The project not only enhances biodiversity but also provides a transformative experience for visitors, researchers, and scientists.

The Urban Nature Project is more than a garden—it’s a sustainable legacy that redefines how cities can integrate nature, education, and climate action.

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