Geranium is a specialist food, gift and grocery shop at the base of Lauderdale Tower, one of the three residential towers in the Grade ll Listed Barbican Estate.

The first step of the project was to remove two layers of suspended ceilings, blackout paint on windows, plaster, and cheap floor tiles. This revealed a beautiful quarry tiled floor matching the outdoor surface and the characteristic Barbican feature concrete in various textures and greys. This became the starting point for the sensitive and contextual design that was then created and applied. The space now stands proud in its intended double height, and overlooks the City of London’s skyline, while dappled sunlight dances on the concrete walls.

A gigantic table at the centre of the room and wall-mounted discrete Vitsoe shelving units are the main displays, showcasing products and adding embellishment to the otherwise raw room. The original concrete ceiling ‘cut-outs’ are fitted with custom made drop-down pendants held by an intricate intervention that holds both the light fitting and the plate covering the opening, a detail that delicately complements the simplicity of the space. Inspired by the geranium flowers that spill over the estate balconies, the shop has been named GERANIUM.

The design of the shop delicately combines retail display techniques and detail design. Marianne’s flair for place-making and product curating have rendered the space an Aladdin’s cave within the estate, with displays constantly growing and evolving as new products the shelves and tables.

Since its opening GERANIUM has become a focal point for many residents of the Barbican, and also welcomes visitors to the area including those visiting the Barbican Centre. The shop has been featured in Monocle magazine, The Financial Times weekend supplement, in the shop and website of VITSOE as well as the community’s local publication: Barbican Life.