One Tree at a Time, Guerrilla Tree Planting Architects

As temperatures rise across London this week, a guerrilla-planted olive tree near our office which we planted a few years ago is being watered to help it continue growing.

The tree forms part of a small, ongoing planting initiative that members of our architectural practice have undertaken over the past several years. During that time, a number of trees and plants have been introduced into overlooked and underused spaces in the surrounding area as a modest contribution to local urban greening.

The olive tree was chosen for its resilience and adaptability. With deep root systems, drought tolerance, and the ability to store carbon throughout its lifetime, it has increasingly come to symbolise the need for cities to adapt to changing climatic conditions. A symbol of climate action, resilience, and sustainability, the olive tree reminds us that adapting to a changing climate starts with nurturing nature.

The practice intends to continue planting and maintaining trees where opportunities arise and hopes that others will consider similar actions in their own neighbourhoods. As cities face increasing environmental challenges, local efforts to expand urban greenery can play a role in improving biodiversity, reducing heat, and strengthening connections between people and place.