Incorporating green spaces in homes and offices is a popular design element used today to promote sustainability. One example of green space is a living wall which has immense potential in terms of aesthetic appeal. But ‘green’ architecture can be quite tricky, especially since there needs to be a balance in ensuring that it does not only look good but also serves the intended purpose.
Any design element requires planning and consideration. There are many living walls UK companies and residents can choose from, and each offers a variety of installation options. Since each type of green wall installation has different maintenance needs and environmental compatibility, selecting the right one is critical. Here is a comparison of three kinds of living green wall systems popular today.
- Modular or panel green wall system
A modular green wall uses a non-soil planting medium or modular tiles. Each supplier uses a different material for growing plants. Once the panels are installed, these are then connected to the home or building’s plumbing. Panel systems typically have a self-watering feature or hydroponic drip irrigation. This type of irrigation is ideal because it recycles almost all of the water and does not need much to keep the plants growing.
Another benefit of panel systems is versatility. You can install these indoors or outdoors, and climate has minimal effect on them. Panels can be installed all the way up a wall or wrapped around posts and corners to produce a stunning effect. Since panel systems do not use soil, it is also a perfect solution if you are planning to add a green wall to spaces with strict health and safety requirements.
- Tray green wall system
A tray system consists of individual planting trays inserted directly into the wall. The system uses a soil medium where each tray is designed to hold a specific volume of water. Plants also need to be grown elsewhere and replanted once the trays are ready for installation.
A water tank supplies each tray, and you will need to refill the tank manually. Therefore, tray systems are slightly more challenging to maintain than a modular system. Moreover, the system cannot recycle any water that seeps out of the tray. Nevertheless, the angled design ensures that soil and water will not spill out of the tray.
Tray systems are excellent for both indoor and outdoor spaces. But you need to keep in mind that since there is soil, it is susceptible to mould growth and pest infestation.
- Freestanding green wall system
A freestanding green wall is similar to a modular system where it uses a non-soil growth medium. The difference is that the system is not attached to a wall. Instead, it is portable and can be moved anywhere you like. What is excellent about a freestanding green wall is the portability. This option is perfect for leased spaces or when you are fond of changing up the décor. It can also be used as a wall divider for apartments. Another establishment that will benefit from a freestanding green wall is a retail store or perhaps a restaurant.
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