Lush living wall for a residential renovation
Area: 36m2
Location: Peckham
System: BioPanel
Install Year: 2023
Architect: Neil Dusheiko Architects
Client: Private client
Number of plants: 2200
Plant species: 14
The client appointed Neil Dusheiko Architects to remodel their house transforming a dark, closed-off interior into a modern house that embraces nature.
Inspired by their Sri Lankan heritage, the client wanted to include plants to create a green, verdant environment full of visual interest and textures and to make the house ‘feel alive’.
The living wall forms a stunning backdrop to the extended kitchen but it also spans two storeys allowing glimpses of it from different parts of the house, including the bathroom, helping to create a ‘spa-like retreat’.
Our approach
Biotecture led the project from concept through to completion, working closely with the main contractor, Bright Tiger.
BioPanel is normally installed in two phases, first fix, including backing board, geotextile drainage layer and aluminium carrier rails, followed by fully mature planted panels. Due to the construction schedule we installed the base BioPanels on site and then planted them up in-situ. The process was filmed as part of Channel 4’s Extraordinary Extensions.
The living wall includes 14 different internal plants. The wall was zoned into 9 different sections with 3-4 plants in each. This ensured good coverage whilst also creating variation throughout the wall.
The living wall is positioned under a large, glazed skylight that offers the plants the full spectrum of sunlight, with sun-loving species placed closer to the light and plants requiring more shade towards the bottom.
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 completed living wall injects vibrant greenery into the residence, transforming the interior into a biophilic haven visible from several vantage points and markedly enhancing the home’s ambiance.
The project includes a remotely monitored irrigation system. This, combined with regular maintenance visits from Biotecture will keep the wall thriving for years to come.
The project won a BALI (British Association of Landscape Industries) Award in 2024, and was featured on Channel 4’s Extraordinary Extensions, Series 2, Episode 2.
