Terrarium Industrialis, England

The Terrarium Industrialis lies hidden inside an abandoned building, glass-encased verdant gems against a 1950s Modernist concrete shell. Standing in stark contrast to the concrete surroundings. A miniature world of lush greenery, and a breath of fresh air amidst the industrial ruins.

I visited this location several times in 2023, usually around sunset. The view of the setting sun across the water, with the warm Golden Hour light, is always a delight.

History of this Location

The story of the industrial empire starts with an entrepreneur and a group of local businessmen, who founded a glass company in the early 1800s. There were already other glass companies in the area, so the fledgling company had healthy competition from day one. The The company began to grow rapidly, with success coming from two primary factors. Firstly, the driving force of the Industrial Revolution, which was already in full swing, Secondly, the founders’ commitment to research and development of innovative products.

By the middle of the 20th century, the company had blossomed into a multinational corporation. Firmly established as one of the world’s leading glass producers. Now a prestigious company, it was time to upgrade their headquarters. The new headquarters was to be in the same town, paying homage to the company’s roots. The new site was landscaped, and a long lake was created, preparing a beautiful backdrop for the company’s new home. Following on from this work, the task of designing a collection of fitting Modernist inspired buildings was entrusted to a renowned architect. The design plans calling for seamless integration of the company’s glass products into the architecture. The vision: a blend of industry and nature, both in harmony.

The site remained a active until the mid-2000s. A Japanese company took over, and this site shut down soon after.

Terrarium Industrialis – Nature within abandoned Modernist architecture

My photos focus on the former employee refectory; from the outside, it looks like any boarded up office building. This two-storey 1950s building has windows along one side, from ceiling to floor. The abundant natural light and spacious open-floor plan must have made this a wonderful dining space.

Nowadays, the inside is stripped bare creating a stark backdrop. At either end of the space, there is a glass atrium that spans both floors. The top is open, with only a net covering. These atriums were once home to tended plants. After nearly 20 years of free reign, they are growing strong! They are free to escape into the old dining hall now, through the numerous broken windows.

Terrarium Industrialis – the name that came to me. A terrarium, locked in an abandoned industrial setting. A nice title for the photos, anyway!