Integrating Trees into Architectural Design

Integrating Trees into Architectural Design

Our very own Howard Booth (Principal Arboricultural Consultant) presented to RIBA on Trees and the Design and Development Process, with a focus on BS5837, informed by his chairing of the BSI Pannell reviewing and updating the current British Standard and his many years of experience providing expert arboricultural advice for diverse projects including housing, infrastructure and public realm improvements.

The webinar was chaired by Hellen Taylor (Director of Practice, Scott Brownrigg) and brought together leading experts to explore the key issues architects need to consider when integrating trees into their designs, including:

• 🌳 John Rose, Senior Urban Forest Consultant, Treeconomics, presented a review of national and local tree policies.
• 🌳  Sarah Dodd, Founder and Director, Tree Law, presented on Trees and the Law.
• 🌳 Amanda Newsome, Biodiversity Net Gain Advisor, and Jim Smith, Urban Forestry Adviser, both at the Forestry Commission Forestry Commission, presented on how BNG aligns with green infrastructure, local nature recovery strategies, and the role of trees in sustainable planning.
• 🌳 Dr Gary Winn, Director at Progression Architects, presented on Developing the client’s brief: Integrating trees and buildings.
• 🌳 Sue James, Chartered Architect and Convenor of the Trees and Design Action Group.

This webinar will provide important insights for architects to best   

• Understand key national and local tree policies in England and their role in supporting the UK’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
• Gain insight into legal protections for trees, how the law addresses subsidence disputes, and how legal and insurance frameworks can support tree retention.
• Learn how Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) legislation influences development, supports green infrastructure, and enhances tree conservation in planning.
• Understand the role of BS 5837 in tree surveys, protection, and canopy cover assessment within the design and construction process.
• Recognise the importance of arboriculturists and landscape architects in integrating trees into development briefs, ensuring compliance with planning requirements.