In the rapidly evolving landscape of urban design and sustainability, commercial living walls have emerged as not only an aesthetically pleasing addition to buildings but also a powerful statement of eco-consciousness. However, the journey to establishing thriving living walls in commercial spaces is not as straightforward as it may seem. To ensure the success and longevity of these green installations, it's essential to prioritise design and feasibility consultation from trusted experts. In this article, we'll explore the critical role of such consultation.
The Role of Design and Feasibility Consultation
Compliance and Regulations
Before we dive into the other components, a key one that should be considered is compliance and regulation. Staying compliant with local regulations and building codes is essential. Feasibility consultation helps navigate these requirements and obtain necessary permits. Moreover, it can help you successfully achieve Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), and Urban Greening Factor (UGF).
Tailoring Living Walls to Specific Environments
Every commercial space is unique, with varying lighting conditions, temperature ranges, and structural considerations. Design consultation helps assess these factors and tailor living wall designs to thrive in their specific environments.
Plant Selection and Health
Choosing the right plant species is critical for the success of living walls. Each living wall is designed to benefit the urban environment. To achieve benefits such as enhancing the biodiversity, or reducing issues with the air quality, the correct species must be selected.
Structural Engineering
Feasibility consultation ensures that the building's structure can support the weight and irrigation requirements of the living wall. This step is crucial for safety and longevity.
Sustainability and Maintenance
Design consultants consider sustainability aspects, such as water efficiency and the use of recycled materials, to align with environmental goals. They also provide guidance on maintenance schedules and practices to keep the living wall healthy and vibrant.
Book a Consultation with Viritopia
Viritopia has over 20 years of expertise developing and managing biophilic infrastructure, allowing us to provide an in-depth evaluation of how a scheme will comply with regulatory standards. We help you plan more efficiently and provide you with the resources you need to take your project to the next level. Head to our site to book a living wall consultancy or explore our green walls and their benefits.