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Crowne Plaza Docklands - Boat Design
Crowne Plaza London Docklands is a contemporary waterfront hotel overlooking the Royal Victoria Dock. Seeking to create a memorable arrival experience, the hotel commissioned Frederick William Design to deliver a bespoke botanical installation that would become the centrepiece of its reception.
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Inspired by the area's maritime heritage, the concept took the form of a suspended boat, celebrating the docklands' connection to London's waterways while introducing a striking biophilic feature into the heart of the hotel.
Something different...
Unlike a traditional floral installation, this project required close collaboration across multiple disciplines. Working alongside architects, builders and specialist metal fabricators, Frederick William Design played an integral role in developing a feature that was not only visually impactful but also structurally engineered for a busy hospitality environment.
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Every element was carefully considered, from the bespoke metal framework and suspension system to the planting design itself. The installation needed to integrate seamlessly with the building's architecture while meeting practical, safety and installation requirements.
Installation
The completed feature combines a custom-built steel structure with carefully selected planting, creating the illusion of a living vessel suspended above the reception. Cascading greenery introduces movement, texture and softness, transforming the space while complementing the hotel's contemporary interiors.
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Positioned above the reception, the installation creates a powerful first impression, drawing guests into the space and establishing an immediate connection with the hotel's dockside setting. More than a decorative feature, it is a permanent architectural installation that reflects the identity of the location through thoughtful, site specific design.
Results
This project demonstrates Frederick William Design's ability to deliver complex botanical installations that extend far beyond floral styling and is a great example of how bespoke planting features can become fully integrated elements of the built environment rather than simply decorative additions.
