Rewilding the Workplace – A Butterfly Garden for Voyageur UK
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Tiempo de lectura 3 min
At Sprouts of Bristol, we believe green spaces should be for everyone - not just people, but pollinators too. When Voyageur UK, a travel company based in central Bristol, got in touch about transforming their unused courtyard into a wellbeing-focused butterfly garden, we couldn’t wait to bring it to life.
Project at a Glance
- Client: Voyageur UK (Travel Services) LTD
- Location: Lower Park Row, Bristol
- Brief: Transform a blank courtyard into a butterfly-friendly retreat to support employee wellbeing and local wildlife
- Style: Naturalistic and textural, full of colour and pollinator-friendly planting
- Aftercare: Regular plant maintenance by Sprouts of Bristol
A Garden with Purpose
The client had a simple but thoughtful request: “Butterflies used to visit the garden – it would be lovely if they came again.” That intention shaped the entire design. While not focused on any one species, our goal was to reintroduce nectar-rich plants and habitat to bring life back into the space.
We also considered how staff would interact with the space, seating, sensory planting, and structure to create a peaceful retreat just a few steps from their desks.
Planting for Pollinators
The scheme blends native and pollinator-friendly perennials, soft textures, and evergreen anchors for year-round structure.
Some of the planting highlights include:
- Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’, Lavender ‘Platinum Blonde’, and Salvia ‘Kate Glenn’ – beloved by bees and butterflies alike
- Erigeron karvinskianus ‘Profusion’, Scabiosa ‘Kudo White’, and Lychnis ‘Petit Henri’ – for delicate seasonal colour
- Thymus serpyllum ‘Snowdrift’, Ajuga ‘Burgundy Glow’, and Erodium variabile ‘Album’ – low-growing fillers with high pollinator value
- Climbing Clematis ‘Apple Blossom’ to soften the trellised walls over time
- Evergreens like Euonymus fortunei ‘Harlequin’ and Scaly Male Ferns for structure and winter interest
Locally Grown, Lovingly Planted
All the plants used in this garden were grown in the Cotswolds by one of our trusted British suppliers. We’re proud to support UK growers and reduce plant miles wherever possible. Not only does this help the environment, but it also means the plants are well-suited to local conditions and already toughened up for a life outdoors.
The Before & After
Before:
The image above shows the courtyard pre-transformation - empty planters, exposed concrete, and little sign of wildlife.
After:
A new lease of life - raised beds bursting with texture and colour, lattice trellises for climbers, and a seating area for staff to enjoy.
Why It Matters for People, Too
This garden isn’t just for butterflies - it’s also a space for people. Studies continue to show the benefits of time spent in nature, especially in the workplace. A thoughtfully-planted garden can:
- Encourage movement and breaks from screens
- Reduce stress and support mental health
- Strengthen team culture and connection to place
We’re thrilled to support Voyageur UK’s commitment to staff wellbeing by maintaining this courtyard as part of our corporate plant care services.
Want to Rewild Your Workplace?
If you have a courtyard, rooftop, balcony or even just a few planters, we’d love to help you turn it into a buzzing, blooming oasis for your team (and the local wildlife!)
📩 Get in touch or explore our plant styling and maintenance services to start your own green transformation.
What plants attract butterflies in the UK?
Some of the best plants include Nepeta, Lavender, Salvia, Verbena, and Scabiosa. These are rich in nectar and bloom over a long season.
Can I create a butterfly garden in a courtyard or small space?
Definitely! Even a few containers or raised beds can support pollinators. Choose a mix of flowering plants and evergreens for structure.
Is a butterfly garden high maintenance?
Not necessarily. With the right plants and a seasonal maintenance plan, you can keep the space looking lush without constant upkeep.
Do you offer plant maintenance after installation?
Yes – we offer regular visits to keep gardens healthy, happy, and looking their best all year round.
Jessy Edgar
Jessy is the founder of Sprouts of Bristol, a plant and gift shop in the heart of the city. Passionate about greenery and creativity, Jessy shares practical plant care advice and inspiration for bringing nature into your home.
