Innovation in Construction Series: Green Walls

The built environment shows no signs of slowing down production and global tensions surrounding environmental issues are continuing to grow. Subsequently, the introduction of Green Walls is growing in popularity, with both internal and external options available. Heavily built up areas, including residential and office space, are using Green Walls in areas with limited access to nature such as parks and woodland to create a more ecological landscape. Research suggests increasing green spaces produces benefits to the occupant’s mental health, productivity and a reduction in pollutants.

An Idea Taken From Nature

Buildings that have become overgrown with the surrounding greenery can seem less imposing than buildings devoid of greenery. This has led to the development of Green Wall systems in an attempt to introduce nature to built up areas. Green Wall systems provide greater control over where the green space is located and can help prevent the building becoming overgrown and inaccessible.

(Idea taken from nature)

Direct and Indirect Greening

The Direct Greening approach involves using plants that are natural climbing plants which use the structure for support and nutrition. This can be an unintentional by-product of derelict buildings or a direct encouragement of nature. Similar to direct greening, Indirect Greening requires engineering to achieve a green result. Structures such as trellises/arches/wires are used to guide the climbing plants and create green space.

What Are Living Walls?

Living Walls are composed of pre-fabricated modules that include irrigation systems. Unlike other Green Wall systems, Living Walls can use non-climbing plants. These systems can also be tailored to the space, both internally and externally.

Internal Living Walls

Living walls are being increasingly introduced into internal areas of offices and residential spaces. There are various benefits to both the environment and the mental health of the occupants.

(Internal Living Wall)

These benefits include:

Living plants have been proven to improve the overall productivity and satisfaction levels of employees
They provide a green/eco-friendly environment – particularly for inner city offices
Plants help filter out harmful pollutants from the air
Living walls are impressive and pleasing to look at – providing a modern, eco-forward brand image

External Living Walls

External Living Walls are frequently being used by commercial and office projects as part of a green, eco-friendly focus. Many of the benefits found with Internal Living Walls are also a benefit of External. However, there are some additional benefits that can be achieved solely through the use of External systems.

(External Living Wall)

These benefits include:

External Living Walls provide a barrier between the building and the weather
The inclusion of Living Walls, particularly in highly built up areas such as major cities, can help to attract wildlife including bees, butterflies and birds
Temperature regulation throughout the seasons
Reduces a building’s overall carbon footprint and helps to reduce surrounding air pollution