If you’re looking to give your interior design an edge in 2023, biophilic architecture is the way to go. Also known as “nature-inspired design,” this green trend involves incorporating elements of nature into your building or structure. This can include things like plants, water features, and even natural light. The goal of biophilic architecture is to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also promote the well-being of those who occupy them. As a top trend in the 2022 Pinterest Predicts report, biophilic design is something you don’t want to miss out as it will continue to grow. Literally!
One of the most popular elements of biophilic design are living wall. Living walls are exactly what they sound like – walls that are covered in plants. Not only do they look great, but they also help to improve air quality and create a more relaxing environment.
If you are new to Living Walls, and wondering how is it possible for plants to happily grow vertically, know that vertical gardens are not a new concept. In fact, the history of vertical gardens dates back thousands of years to the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon—one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The modern version of Living Walls were popularized by Patrick Blank, a Belgian architect, who created the first one in 1988. Yet, Living Walls as we know them today, began to take off in the late 2000s.
If you are a designer and you are thinking about incorporating a living wall into your project, know how to budget one may be the first question that comes to mind. The second question may be related to maintenance – Living Walls are living organisms that need care and attention.
As for maintenance, Living Walls need to be watered regularly (usually once a week), but most often they are designed and installed with a built in irrigation system and timer that will keep the Vertical Garden healthy, green and lushed. There are plenty landscapers and horticulturists that specialize in Living Walls, so finding help for up-keeping the vertical green wall is not generally a problem.
When is comes to budget, Living Walls can be a bit of an investment, but the benefits (aesthetically, acoustically, and for air quality) make them well worth the initial cost. Living Walls may range anywhere from $125 to $300 per square foot, depending on the location, plants and of course size.
Designers have the ability to set visions, be trendsetters and make a difference in our everyday spaces, by designing a future that no only is functional, but can improve the quality of life of people that will inhabit that space. In a world in which climate change is a reality and the air we breathe is more and more polluted, Living Walls are one of the best sustainable solutions to help improve our quality of life.
So, if you’re looking for a way to make your interior design portfolio stand out in 2023, biophilic architecture may be something you should consider. You don’t need to be a landscaper or even have a green thumb to incorporate this trend into your designs. All you need is appreciate the value, beauty, and importance that plants can bring to our everyday lives.
If you would like to learn more about Living Walls and our vertical green system, please make sure to download our brochure. Check out our gallery to see how other designers and living wall installers have used our Cork Vertical system into their projects, and needless to say, contact us today!
