This internal green wall helps absorb sound and heat, making the atrium more useable
Area: 134m2
Location: London
System: BioPanel
Install Year: 2025
Number of plants: 8257
Plant species: 4
The client wanted to enhance the atrium of their office, a large, high-ceilinged space used for informal meetings and social interaction. However, the area suffered from poor acoustics due to hard surface finishes, resulting in a noisy and less inviting atmosphere.
They sought a solution that would not only address the sound issues but also bring a sense of calm and connection to nature into the space, all within the constraints of a retrofit project.
Our approach
Following a successful living wall installation at another of the client’s sites, we were approached again for this project. We proposed a 137m² hydroponic living wall that could be retrofitted to a high-level atrium wall without major structural changes.
The living wall system was fixed to the existing wall using cladding rails at 600mm centres.
The design took inspiration from a ‘sun lounge’ or outdoor living room concept, using meadow-inspired colours and natural textures to soften the space. The planting design features flowing ‘lens’-shaped patterns, with a rich palette of greens accented by the cream variegation of Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Aurem’.
Our resilient hydroponic system was paired with a remotely monitored irrigation system to ensure consistent performance with minimal disruption to building operations.
Design
Including panel layout, plant design and irrigation design
Horticulture
living walls grown in the nursery for 8-12 plants until fully mature
Installation
Installation of backing board, geotextile drainage layer, irrigation pipework and planted panels
Maintenance
Remote monitoring of the irrigation system, regular visual inspections and horticultural maintenance visits
The results
The installation significantly improved the atrium environment. By absorbing and diffusing sound, the wall has helped address the space’s acoustic challenges, making it more comfortable for informal meetings and everyday use.
The plants also contribute to regulating internal temperatures by absorbing heat, enhancing the overall thermal comfort of the space.
Visually, the lush, textured planting creates a tranquil, nature-inspired atmosphere that supports staff wellbeing.
