The 5 key benefits of a living wall
Rainwater regulation
Supports local ecosystems
Stimulates biodiversity
CO2 absorption and air purification
Heat regulation and insulation
Types of living walls
There are various types of living walls available, including ground-based systems with climbing plants and modular solutions. Each type of living wall has its own advantages and can be customised to meet the specific needs of the building and location. The different systems from Mobilane are designed in a circular way, reliable, easy to install, fully recyclable, and particularly suitable for sustainable projects and climate-resilient construction. One thing these types of living walls have in common is that they provide a fully green facade immediately after installation.
Living wall systems
A living wall system consists of modules or panels attached to the facade, in which plants grow with the help of an irrigation system.
Living wall with planters
In this system, plants grow in planters attached to the facade. The plants do not root in the ground but receive their nutrients and water directly from the planters through a built-in irrigation system.
Ground-based living wall with climbing support
In this type of living wall, climbing plants root directly in the ground and are supported by climbing aids (such as wires or grids) attached to the facade.
Ground-based self-clinging living wall
This type of living wall uses climbing plants such as ivy, which grow directly from the ground and attach themselves to the facade without the need for support structures.
Which living wall is suitable for which project?
Choosing the right living wall depends on several factors, such as the climate, wind load, the amount of sun/shade, and the orientation of the facade. The desired level of maintenance, the load-bearing capacity of the facade, and functional requirements (such as thermal insulation or aesthetic goals) also play a role. Additionally, it is important to consider the intended use and desired biodiversity. Each project requires a unique design that takes these factors and the specific conditions of the location into account.
Technical requirements and types of facades for planting
Living walls can be installed on various types of facades, depending on the chosen system and the specific technical requirements of the building. Each facade has its own requirements, such as load-bearing capacity, insulation capabilities, and ease of installation. It is important to ensure a suitable base to allow the plants to function properly while achieving the desired aesthetics and sustainability. The main types of facades on which living walls can be applied include:
- Concrete facades
- Brick facades
- Wooden facades
- Steel or metal facades
- Facades with cladding, such as aluminium or composite panels
- Prefabricated facade systems
- Sandwich panels
Living walls for distribution centres: sustainable and functional
Living walls offer many benefits for distribution centres (DCs), where they are not only aesthetically appealing but also contribute to the building’s sustainability. They help improve energy efficiency by better insulating the building, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling. Additionally, living walls can improve air quality and contribute to sound dampening, which is especially useful in busy industrial environments. The use of living walls on distribution centres also supports environmental goals, such as reducing the ecological footprint and enhancing the company’s image as a sustainable player.
A natural solution to heat stress
Living walls provide an effective solution to heat stress in urban environments due to their natural ability to cool buildings. The vegetation absorbs sunlight, reduces the surface temperature of facades, and creates shade, while the plants cool the air around them through evaporation. This not only helps lower the indoor temperature but also reduces the urban heat island effect, contributing to a more pleasant and liveable climate in cities.
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Fire certifications for living walls
Living walls can meet various fire certifications, which are essential for the safety of buildings. These certifications ensure that the facade planting and the system used comply with strict fire safety standards. The highest achievable certification is often Euroclass A2 (under the European fire classification system), which indicates that the materials are fire-resistant and produce minimal smoke and gas. This makes it possible to apply living walls in buildings with high fire safety requirements, such as offices, hotels, and high-rise buildings, without compromising safety.
Sustainable rainwater irrigation system
Living walls can be equipped with a sustainable rainwater irrigation system, where rainwater is collected and stored for watering the plants. This option ensures that no mains water is used, which is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Collecting rainwater reduces the load on the drainage network and provides a sustainable solution for maintaining the facade planting, significantly reducing water consumption. This system contributes to the ecological sustainability of the building and can help achieve sustainability goals and certifications.
An easy process
We begin with an introductory conversation.
Budget, planning, and quotation
Planting and preparing
Installation and handover of the living wall
Living walls and sustainability certifications
A living wall contributes to sustainability certifications such as BREEAM and LEED by offering various benefits. The plants improve the energy efficiency of a building through insulation, helping to reduce heating and cooling costs. They also enhance air quality by absorbing CO2 and fine particles, benefiting the health of the indoor environment. Additionally, a living wall aids in rainwater management by capturing and slowly draining water, reducing the risk of flooding and easing the pressure on drainage systems. Finally, a living wall promotes biodiversity in urban environments, which is positively evaluated in sustainability certifications. In short, living walls play an important role in earning points for both BREEAM and LEED.
Improve the urban microclimate with living walls
Our cities are grappling with the growing challenges of the urban heat island effect and climate change. The integration of living wall systems into urban landscapes not only adds aesthetic value but also offers a range of environmental benefits, including cooling urban microclimates.
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These companies chose a living wall
Living wall training
We offer training for green professionals and architects, focusing on the design, installation, and maintenance of living walls. During these sessions, we provide practical knowledge and insights, enabling participants to confidently integrate sustainable green solutions into their projects.
Inspiring living walls
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Frequently Asked Questions
All frequently asked questionsThe lifespan of a living wall depends on several factors, such as the type of system, the plants used, the quality of the installation, and the maintenance performed. They require professional installation and regular, professional maintenance.
Depending on the planting, the living wall should be pruned approximately twice a year. Additionally, replacing poor plants, combating diseases and pests, and checking the irrigation system are all part of the maintenance. The automated irrigation and drainage system ensures a consistent water supply and optimal water use, with rainwater as a supplement. During prolonged dry periods, a regular water source is necessary to support the system.
The choice of plants for a living wall depends on the type of system, the location, and factors such as facade orientation. For ground-based systems and climbing support systems, Hedera helix ‘Woerner’, a strong and evergreen climbing plant, is a common option. More advanced systems can also use other plant species, such as ornamental plants and flowering varieties, allowing for unique designs in colours and patterns. Consult the Mobilane Plantguide for an overview of suitable plants or ask for personalised advice from Mobilane Technical Support. Mobilane Technical Support.
The cost of your living wall depends on several factors: the size and complexity of the project, the chosen system, the inclusion of an irrigation system, the plants, etc. On average, a living wall costs between €200 and €800 per m² (excluding VAT, including installation).
The main difference between ground-based and facade-based planting is the contact with the ground and the type of installation. A ground-based living wall uses climbing plants that grow directly from the ground and often use natural climbing supports. These plants usually receive water and nutrients from the soil and require regular maintenance. Facade-based planting is installed directly on the facade, without contact with the ground, and is equipped with an automated irrigation and nutrient system. They are ideal for urban areas and offer more design freedom.
An outdoor living wall contributes to climate-resilient construction and enhances the greening of the living environment. The vegetated walls create a healthy and pleasant living climate for both humans and animals. Plants filter the air and convert carbon dioxide into oxygen. Facades and stone get very hot in the sun, so a living wall also provides cooling. Additionally, the plants in the living wall offer shelter for birds and insects, contributing to the stimulation of biodiversity.
The MobiPanel Living Wall system fully complies with the principles of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), actively contributing to creating and enhancing natural habitats. Designed with sustainability in mind, MobiPanel helps increase biodiversity by integrating greenery into urban infrastructure, offering valuable points towards BNG compliance. By using eco-friendly materials and promoting plant growth, the system supports environmental regeneration, making it an ideal choice for projects aiming to deliver positive ecological outcomes.
Yes, living walls play a crucial role in achieving a high BREEAM score by contributing to the ecological value of the site. They help maximise external green spaces within the building footprint, which increases biodiversity and has a positive impact on the environment. This results in valuable points in the BREEAM assessment, both in terms of ecology and well-being.
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