What if it was possible for urban areas to grow alongside plants and vegetation? If it is, Green infrastructure might be part of the solution. These eco-friendly building and home designs could help reduce the negative ecological impact of urbanization while simultaneously setting a standard for environmentally conscious indoor spaces.
It is undeniable that climate change is worsening based on human activity. At Gencorp, however, we believe in empowering our clients to make the change they want. And if you want to live and build green, that change has become even easier to implement. With green walls, you can reduce heating costs, drown out noise pollution, and increase indoor air quality for your family or employees with the added pleasure of a beautifully vivacious wall. The question isn’t why build a green wall, it’s why haven’t you built one already?
What is a Green Wall?
A green wall is an indoor or exterior wall or feature that grows plants and vegetation. Created by the former University of Illinois landscape architecture professor, Stanley Hart White, in 1938, a green wall, living wall, or vertical garden as may refer to it as, has taken off as an ecological centrepiece for modern interior design. Green walls have become the easiest and most aesthetically pleasing way to incorporate greenery into a home or, most commonly, a workspace. With a water delivery system and a consistent exposure to sunlight, these walls are quite self-sufficient, not requiring much attention – as opposed to other potted plants or vines.
The Benefits of A Green Wall
Combats Climate Change:
A wall, of course, is a small contributor to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, but like electric cars, in numbers they can make a demonstrable impact. Developing green walls can improve your company, your reputation, and, most importantly, your home or work environments.
Improved Air Quality
At work, or at home, you and the people you live/work with can be exposed to a variety of airborne toxins, ranging from formaldehyde to carbon dioxide to even some volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Living walls, while visually impressive, can also be exceptional absorbers of harmful toxins. The plants metabolize these particulates and release oxygen in its place, producing clean, breathable air. Being indoors can be stuffy enough as it is, why not introduce a stunning, green vacuum and bring the outside, inside.
Lower Energy Costs
Not unlike green roofs, green walls can serve as excellent managers of temperature. In warm months, the vegetation can absorb incoming solar radiation and cool the inner environment. The plants accomplish this through a process known as evapotranspiration where the sunlight expels water from both the plants and the soil. The opposite goes for colder months, where the living walls provide a surprising amount of insulation. All of this temperature regulation can result in significant reductions in heating and cooling costs, which subsequently also helps the environment.
Reduce Noise Pollution
Similar to how the plant and soil absorb sunlight, the green walls can act as effective barriers to the noise pollution generated by urban or suburban environments. If your space is open-concept, sound may already be an issue when it is amplified by indoor activity. Investing in a living wall would dramatically impact the sound quality of your home or work environment and grant all users an improved level of focus and tranquility.
Better Your Community with a Green Wall
Contact our team at GenCorp Homes Inc. you have any questions regarding the installation of a green wall in your home. You have the power to improve your planet, your community, and your home with just a simple piece of green infrastructure. No matter what your style is we can find the living wall that works for you. Reach out to us today to get started.
