Large-format planters anchor the central atrium at 33 Broadway, creating a welcoming, green heart within the workplace.

The atrium at 33 Broadway was reimagined as a welcoming, human-scaled space within a large commercial building.

Originally experienced as a transitional, underutilised zone, the brief was to introduce comfort, warmth, and visual appeal so tenants would feel encouraged to pause and occupy the space. By reworking the furniture layout and using planting to define zones, the atrium was transformed from a pass-through void into a series of places designed for connection and use.

Planting plays a defining role in shaping how people move through and inhabit the atrium.

Large-scale pots and carefully selected trees break down the height of the multi-level volume, creating intimate seating areas while maintaining openness. A winter garden lounge takes advantage of northern light, offering a calm retreat, while a central waiting area is anchored by greenery that softens the architecture, provides subtle screening, and improves acoustic comfort.

Species selection was guided by available natural light and a desire to balance delicacy with architectural strength. Ficus benjamina was chosen for its fine foliage, which contrasts with the building’s strong structural elements while complementing the timber finishes throughout. Selected with long-term growth in mind, the trees will continue to develop their canopies over time, forming a soft overhead presence that people can move beneath.

Simple, durable pots were intentionally scaled to suit the height and volume of the atrium, ensuring longevity in a high-traffic environment while delivering strong visual impact. The result is an activated winter garden setting where people can meet, wait, or step away from their desks, enjoying warmth, light, and the restorative presence of greenery within the workplace.