One of the top trends in modern offices is to incorporate vertical gardens within their interior design projects. In addition to their undeniable aesthetic value, these green walls contribute benefits Functional, environmental, and emotional changes that transform workspaces into healthier and more attractive environments. And it's becoming increasingly necessary to incorporate these changes. natural elements inside offices to integrate nature into urban and technological contexts.

There are different types of vertical gardens, depending on the variety (natural and biofilized), or of the support system. Each of them has its own characteristics and advantages, but also its disadvantages and complications, as we will see below.

Natural vertical gardens

Natural vertical gardens are made up of live plants that grow in structures specially designed to support them in a vertical position. These systems must include substrates, automatic irrigation systems, drainage and, in some cases, artificial lighting. Its aim is to recreate a living ecosystem within the workspace, bringing freshness, color and dynamism.

They are ideal for offices seeking a powerful visual impact and a complete sensory experience, as the plants grow, change over time, and respond to environmental conditions. They work very well in large, well-lit spaces, especially in social areas such as entrances or restaurants.

Meanwhile, the biofilized vertical gardens (also called preserved) are made from natural plants that have undergone a preservation process by replacing the sap with preservatives. Thanks to this treatment, the plants maintain their appearance, Texture and color without the need for water, sunlight, or constant maintenance. They don't grow or wilt, making them a practical option for spaces where caring for live plants isn't feasible.

Both types of vertical gardens fulfill a important decorative function, But they logically offer very different characteristics: natural gardens bring real life and seasonal changes, while biophilic gardens offer aesthetic stability and ease of use.

Natural vertical gardens use Facilities that are well adapted to growing on vertical surfaces and indoor conditions. Among the most common are the pothos, fern, ivy, sansevieria, philodendron, peace lily and various species of live mosses. These plants are notable for their resilience, their ability to purify the air, and their visual appeal.

El maintenance Maintaining these gardens requires a series of regular care tasks. It's necessary to monitor the irrigation system, ensure the plants receive sufficient light—natural or artificial—prune them when they grow too large, and replace any that deteriorate. In addition, they should be inspected. possible pests, Fungal or moisture problems. Although maintenance can be largely automated, professional supervision is always required to ensure the garden remains healthy and aesthetically pleasing.

This type of garden is ideal for offices that have budget and commitment for its care, because the result is a living space that evolves over time and generates an authentic connection with nature.

Biophilized gardens primarily use mosses, lichens, ferns, eucalyptus, ivy and other plants with good preservation capacity. These species maintain their color and shape for years, provided they are in suitable ambient humidity conditions and are not exposed to direct sunlight.

One of the main advantages is that They do not require watering, pruning, or fertilization.They also don't attract insects or generate organic waste. However, it's important to avoid overly dry environments, as low humidity can make plants brittle. In some cases, certain preservation materials can generate a characteristic smell, especially in the first few months after installation.

These gardens are an excellent solution for offices without access to natural light, with controlled climates or with staff who cannot dedicate time to the care of live plants.

In favor…

As is already known, plants improve air quality, Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Some species also filter toxins present in enclosed environments. Furthermore, they regulate humidity and contribute to better acoustics by reducing ambient noise.

From the point of psychological perspective, The presence of live plants reduces stress, improves mood, and promotes concentration. Studies have shown that green spaces increase employee productivity and well-being. eye contact Being in nature generates a feeling of calm that helps combat mental fatigue.

In the aspect aestheticNatural gardens contribute dynamism and freshness. Its colors change over time, the plants grow and adapt, creating a living environment that conveys innovation, sustainability and commitment to the environment.

Drawbacks...

El maintenance This is the main challenge/drawback of vertical gardens, as they require financial investment, time, and specialized personnel. A poorly managed system can lead to problems with humidity, bad smells, pests or visual deterioration.

Furthermore, Not all spaces are suitable For this type of installation, insufficient light, poor ventilation, or sudden temperature changes can negatively affect the plants. There is also a risk of water leaks if the irrigation system is not properly designed.

In favor…

Biophilized gardens are notable for their practicalityThey don't need to. irrigation, lighting, or complex maintenance, lor that reduces costs in the long run. Its installation is simpler and does not require drainage systems or heavy structures.

Visually, they offer a very realistic, natural appearance. They maintain their color for years and They don't wither. This allows you to maintain a consistently green appearance effortlessly. Furthermore, they don't attract insects or generate dirt, making them ideal for offices with high cleanliness standards.

Another important advantage is its versatilityThey can be installed in almost any space: hallways, meeting rooms, reception areas, or windowless zones. They also allow custom designs with logos, shapes and color combinations, like the one in the image above.

Disadvantages…

As you might expect, this type of garden They do not offer the same benefits environmental factors that are more natural than environmental ones. They do not purify the air They don't regulate humidity, since they are not alive. Their function is primarily aesthetic.

In addition, some conservation materials can emit a characteristic smell, especially in enclosed spaces. Although it's not usually intense, it can be bothersome for some people. It's also important to control the humidity, as overly dry conditions can affect its texture.

Finally, by not changing over time, they can lose the “life” effect that natural gardens provide, offering a more static experience.

In addition to being classified by the type of vegetation (natural or preserved), vertical gardens can also be organized according to their structure, support system and installation techniqueThis classification is essential for choosing the most suitable solution based on space, budget, maintenance level and intended use, especially in office environments.

In general terms, vertical gardens can be installed by felt or geotextile systems, modular panels, hydroponic systems y climbing wallsas well as through simpler solutions such as planters, drawers, or hanging pockets. These systems can be adapted both indoors—where environmental control is greater—and outdoors, such as on facades or semi-shaded walls.

As explained above, and regardless of the type chosen, vertical gardens generate an impact positive work environment They provide a sense of well-being, reduce stress, and improve the perception of space. Employees feel more comfortable in visually appealing environments, which fosters motivation and engagement.

The presence of natural elements also reinforces the corporate image of the company. It conveys values ​​such as sustainability, innovation, environmental responsibility, and concern for the well-being of the team. This can improve the perception of customers, partners, and visitors.

In addition, vertical gardens help to define spaces, separate areas without the need for solid walls and to create more welcoming areas within the office, and can be placed on virtually any surface.

There are gardening companies dedicated exclusively to this type of work, so if you are thinking of installing a green wall in your office, consult with experts who can guide you through the entire process, from the most suitable location to the type of installation, varieties, and the keys to its maintenance.

Photos: OfficeSnapShots