The garden's structural timber grid is made of glulam, a type of engineered wood, and uses no standard right angles.
The roof design utilizes ETFE pillows, the same material used for the Eden Project in Cornwall, allowing natural light to nourish the plants.
The vegetation is geographically curated: Asian species are located in the East side, while American species are found in the West.
The garden is built directly over the water of the North Dock, structurally integrated with the subterranean railway station below.
The site was specifically designed to bridge the gap between the financial district and the residential neighborhoods of Poplar.
The wooden lattice structure is designed to open at the top, allowing for natural ventilation and rain irrigation.
Crossrail Place Roof Garden is a 300-meter-long, semi-enclosed botanical space situated above the Canary Wharf Elizabeth Line station. The garden is divided into two distinct zones representing the Eastern and Western hemispheres, featuring plants native to those respective regions. It is housed beneath a distinctive ETFE plastic cushion roof supported by a timber lattice structure designed by Foster + Partners. The garden features stepped seating areas, winding pathways, and integrated performance spaces used for regular art events. Unlike traditional parks, it is situated at the top of a commercial building, offering elevated views of the surrounding skyscrapers and the North Dock. The space functions as an indoor-outdoor microclimate, providing shelter from rain while remaining open to natural light and air. Its location bridges the gap between the historic West India Docks and the modern financial district. It remains one of London's largest roof gardens and is maintained as a public amenity within the Canary Wharf estate.
From the western end of the garden looking back through the timber lattice towards the towering skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.
Visit during the early morning to enjoy the quiet atmosphere before the nearby office workers arrive for lunch.
Bring a book, as the terraced seating areas are designed specifically for resting and reading.
Check the official Canary Wharf arts website in advance for scheduled music, poetry, or theater performances held in the central amphitheater.
Do not treat the garden as a standard ground-level park; avoid bringing large sports equipment or bulky items that obstruct narrow pathways.
The garden occasionally closes for private corporate events or film shoots; check the official website for public closure notices.
