25 Years of Leaflike: Leading the Way in Biophilic Design

Steve Abernethie

Celebrating 25 years, we reflect on a journey defined by our passion for creating beautiful, healthy spaces through biophilic design.

Leaflike began in 1999, a year characterised by rapid technological advancements and the height of the dot-com bubble, which reshaped industries and paved the way for digital giants like PayPal and eBay. The completion of the Millennium Dome in 1999 symbolised the era’s excitement for the new millennium and fascination with future possibilities.

Over the past quarter-century, we’ve grown alongside a global shift towards sustainability and well-being. Our focus on using nature’s calming power has made us leaders in changing how we interact with our environment.

Greener Solutions for a Changing World: The Leaflike Approach

In the early 2000s, a growing interest in sustainable landscapes perfectly aligned with our vision. When the Global Financial Crisis hit in the late 2000s, we responded by innovating with Everleaf, a revolutionary line of preserved foliage and floristry, offering luxury hotels a stunning, eco-conscious, and cost-effective alternative to fresh flowers.

The 2010s brought policies and incentives for green buildings and spaces. The London Olympics highlighted the power of urban regeneration projects, including green spaces. By 2015, the Paris Agreement solidified the global commitment to sustainable development, fuelling the growth of green industries like ours.

Brandon’s arrival as Head of Design in 2016 marked a pivotal moment, advancing our expertise in biophilic design. In 2021, Liam joined the team, swiftly rising from Client Relations to General Manager, bringing a fresh perspective and continuing our family legacy.

Throughout economic downturns and global crises, Leaflike has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Our agility and industry experience allowed us to thrive, and we even acquired UHS Flowerz in 2018 to expand our offerings.

Looking back, milestones like relocating to a dedicated space in 2012 and the introduction of Everleaf in 2009 are testaments to our dedication and adaptability. Today, we emphasise the value we bring to clients: our extensive industry knowledge translates into better, more sustainable long-term planning for their projects.

“Our journey has always been more than just creating beautiful spaces. It’s about forging a deeper connection between people and nature and continuously evolving to meet the needs of a greener, more sustainable future.” — Steve Abernethie, CEO and Founder, Leaflike Group Ltd.

Looking to the Future

As we look ahead, we are filled with optimism and excitement for the future. From our origins during rapid technological change, Leaflike has evolved into a leader in biophilic design. Our commitment to creating healthier, more sustainable spaces remains steadfast as we progress towards a greener future driven by urbanisation, sustainability, and mental health awareness. We envision a future where biophilic design is the norm, not the exception.

Our journey is far from over. Join us as we transform spaces to enhance lives and create a more harmonious environment.

Contact Leaflike today – we’d love to discuss your vision and bring it to life.

08000 282 888
designteam@leaflike.co.uk