Perkin’s Green is the first new public space to open at White City Campus – a place for staff, students, researchers and local workers to relax, meet and enjoy the outdoors.
The green is named after William Henry Perkin, the pioneering chemist who, at just 18, accidentally discovered mauveine – the world’s first synthetic dye.
Born into humble beginnings in London’s East End, Perkin joined the Royal School of Mines (now part of Imperial) at 15. He studied under renowned chemist August Wilhelm von Hofmann and made his discovery while experimenting at home, trying to synthesise quinine from coal tar to treat malaria.
Despite his young age, Perkin understood the importance of intellectual property and patented his discovery, turning it into a successful family business.
His breakthrough was hugely influential and sparked the birth of the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. It showed how science and enterprise could work hand in hand – an ethos that lives on at White City today.
The garden’s design is inspired by the scientific research happening around it. Its hexagonal layout reflects molecular structures, and the layered planting is based on the form of cell membranes. Sustainability guided the whole project, from climate resistant plant choices to sustainable materials. The result is a space that supports wellbeing and biodiversity and creates a new focal point for life on campus.