“Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson
Living walls, also known as vertical gardens, are not just stunning architectural features; they are dynamic, living ecosystems that breathe life into any environment. Whether installed in a business office, hotel lobby, restaurant, or home, these walls offer a blend of aesthetic beauty and profound psychological and physiological benefits. Let’s explore the scientific, emotional, and practical impacts of living walls.
Scientific Evidence: Why Living Walls Matter
Improved Air Quality
Plants in living walls perform photosynthesis, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also filter airborne toxins like benzene and formaldehyde, common in indoor environments. A NASA study on indoor plants demonstrated that certain species can remove up to 87% of air toxins in 24 hours
Stress Reduction
Numerous studies have found that exposure to greenery can significantly lower stress. For example, research in Environmental Health Perspectives revealed that spending time around plants reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and increases feelings of well-being
Enhanced Productivity
A study by the University of Exeter found that offices with plants improve worker productivity by 15% compared to stark environments. Living walls go further by incorporating lush greenery into spaces, fostering creativity and focus
Noise Reduction
Plants absorb sound, making living walls effective for reducing noise pollution in busy environments like restaurants or offices. The soft surfaces of leaves and soil dampen high-frequency sounds, creating a quieter, more peaceful space【4】.
Emotional and Psychological Benefits
Humans have an innate connection to nature, known as biophilia. This bond explains why living walls evoke feelings of tranquility, relaxation, and even joy.
- Green Spaces as Emotional Anchors - Walking into a room with a living wall offers a stark contrast to environments dominated by concrete or plain walls. The vibrant green hues trigger a sense of calm and safety, as our ancestors associated green landscapes with abundance and security.
- Healing Potential - Hospitals with plants and green spaces have shown faster recovery rates among patients. This is tied to the ability of greenery to reduce mental fatigue and encourage positive emotional responses.
- Visual Impact and Aesthetic Appeal - Living walls are more than functional; they are works of art. Imagine a cascading agave or vibrant moss wall greeting you as you enter a space. The visual impact of living walls:
- Breaks Monotony: They add texture and depth that pictures or plain walls cannot.
- Brings Life: The movement of leaves and growth over time reminds us of life’s continuity and resilience.
- Creates Focal Points: A living wall can serve as a stunning centerpiece, transforming a dull room into a vibrant sanctuary.
Living Walls in Practice
I recently worked with a client, James, who wanted a living wall in his dining room. After the installation, he shared how the wall transformed the space and his mood:
“Jon, I love who I am, I love my life, and I love this wall. It reminds me to slow down and enjoy the moment.”
Hearing this brought chills because it encapsulates the power of these walls. They aren’t just decorations; they are reminders to live intentionally and connect with the present.
The Ultimate Energy Boost for Your Space
Living walls not only uplift your surroundings but also your spirit. They invite you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with nature. In today’s fast-paced world, these walls offer a sanctuary of calm—a living, breathing reminder that life is meant to be cherished, not rushed.
Exercise: Build Your Own Living Wall
If installing a large wall feels daunting, start small. At “Plant This,” we offer living wall kits that allow you to create your own vertical garden. These kits include 12 pots that easily slot into place. Fill them with herbs, succulents, or ferns, and watch as your space transforms into a green haven.
Start your journey with nature today. Whether it’s a small herb garden or a large agave wall, these installations promise to bring energy, peace, and beauty to your life.
Jonathan Giese is the founder of PLANT THIS in Palm Springs, California. A former CFO, Jonathan his career in finance to pursue a passion for beauty and nature after grappling with personal fears and challenges. He believes in the power of plants to heal and uplift, striving to create an inviting space where everyone can connect with the natural world. Through his work, he inspires others to find solace and inspiration in their own green spaces
