DISSERTATION

ON

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING

Bachelor of Architecture

Poornima University, Jaipur

Session: 2016-17

Submitted By: Ar. Preethi Agarwal

Milan Joshi GUIDE
2012PUSPABARX015787 Ar. Saurabh Sharma
FIFTH Year, B.Arch. CORDINATOR

School of Planning & Architecture

Poornima University, Ramchandrapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 30390
 i

APPROVAL

The study titled ‘VERTICAL LANDSCAPING’ is hereby approved as an

original work of MILAN JOSHI, enrolment no. 2012PUSPABARX01578
on the approved subject carried out and presented in manner satisfactory
to warrant its acceptance as per the standard laid down by the university.
This report has been submitted in the partial fulfillment for the award of
Bachelor of Architecture degree from School of Planning and Architecture,
Poornima University, Jaipur

It is to be understood that the undersigned does not necessarily endorse

or approve any statement made, any opinion expressed or conclusion
drawn therein, but approves the study only for the purpose it has been
submitted.

Date 26-11-2016
Jaipur

Ar. Preethi Agrawal

EXTERNAL EXAMINER: GUIDE:

Ar Saurabh Sharma Ar Naresh C. Nakra

CO-ORDINATOR: DEAN:

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 2

 ii
DECLARATION

I, MILAN JOSHI, here by solemnly declare that the research work

undertaken by me, titled ‘VERTICAL LANDSCAPING is my original work
and wherever I have incorporated any information in the form of
photographs, text, data, maps, drawings, etc. from different sources, has
been duly acknowledged in my report.

This dissertation has been completed under the supervision of the guide
allotted to me by the school.

Milan Joshi
V year B.Arch.
School of Planning and Architecture
Poornima University, Jaipur

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 3

 iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I express my deep sense of gratitude to respected and learned guides,

Ar. Preethi Agarwal and Ar. Saurabh Sharma for their valuable help
and guidance. I am thankful to them for the encouragement they have
given me for completing the dissertation.

I am also thankful to all other faculty and staff members of the department
for their kind co-operation and help.

Lastly, I also like to express my deep appreciation to Akash Dubey and

Ayushh Jain for providing the moral support and encouragement.

Milan Joshi
V year B.Arch.
School of Planning and Architecture
Poornima University, Jaipur

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 4

 iv
ABSTRACT

TOPIC: VERTICAL LANDSCAPING

HYPOTHESIS: “VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FAÇADE”

INTRODUCTION:
Vertical landscaping is also known as green wall which is used by the ancient time for aesthetic
purpose. But nowadays it is crucial to used green walls for the human. The paper also deals
comparison of vertical landscaping to dynamic facade
OBJECTIVE:
Objective 1: To study and understand all aspects of vertical landscaping.
 Components, elements, need, impact and technology of vertical landscaping.
Objective 2: To study and understand all aspects of dynamic façade.
 The components, elements, need and technology with related to dynamic facade.
Objective 3: Analysis through case studies study.
Objective 4: Conclusion

CASE STUDY: MODULAR GREEN WALL

TRIPTYCH APARTMENTS GREEN WALL
RMIT UNIVERSITY CITY CAMPUS, MELBOURNE
KMC CORPORATE OFFICE, HYDERABAD
PARAMETERS: MOBILE, GROWITH, FLEXIBILITY, HUMAN COMFORT, VITAL, LIVELY

RESULT OF STUDY: With the help of case studies and observations done by me. I have
concluded that vertical landscaping can be a solution for dynamic façade and can be applied in
hot and dry region

GUIDE: Ar. PREETHI AGRAWAL

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 5

 CONTENTS

Approval i
Declaration ii
Acknowledgement iii
Abstract iv
Contents v

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction to topic
1.2 Hypothesis
1.3 Aim
1.4 Objective
1.5 Scope and limitation

CHAPTER 2: DEFINATIONS
2.1 What is vertical landscaping
2.2 History of vertical landscaping
2.3 Types of vertical landscaping
2.4 Benefits of vertical landscaping
2.5 Applications
2.6 Conclusion

CHAPTER 3: INTRODUCTION TO DYNAMIC FACADES

3.1 Meaning of dynamic
3.2 Meaning of dynamic façade
3.3 Conclusion

CHAPTER 4: CASE STUDIES

4.1 Modular green wall
4.2 Triptych apartments green wall
4.3 RMIT university city campus, Melbourne
4.4 KMC corporate office, Hyderabad
4.5 Conclusion

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 6

CHAPTER 5: ANALYSIS
5.1 ANALYSIS

CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

6.1 CONCLUSION
6.2 RECOMMENDATION

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 7

CHAPTER 1:
INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction to topic

1.2 Hypothesis
1.3 Aim
1.4 Objectives
1.5 Scope limitation
1.6 Methodology

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 8

1.1 INTRODUCTION

As our cities move towards high density living, there is proportionally less green
space at ground level per person. Green space is recognised as being beneficial
to human health and wellbeing and provides a respite from the stresses of urban
living. Green walls and facades provide impressive aesthetic outcomes and can
also significantly improve local microclimates.

The transition from natural landscapes to hard infrastructure has also resulted in
the loss of vegetation and habitat, more flash flooding, and negative effects on
human health and well-being. Many of these issues are exacerbated with the
increasingly variable weather patterns that climate change is bringing.
The transition from natural landscapes to hard infrastructure has also resulted in
the loss of vegetation and habitat, more flash flooding, and negative effects on
human health and well-being. Many of these issues are exacerbated with the
increasingly variable weather patterns that climate change is bringing. These

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 9

pressures present enormous environmental and social challenges and require
new ways of thinking to make our cities more liveable now, and into the future.

NEED OF VERTICAL LANDSCAPING

The idea of vertical landscaping on the buildings has evolved due to excessive
exploitation of the urban land. Bricks, concrete and asphalt have replaced
greenery on horizontal as well as vertical planes. Skyscrapers, parking areas and
network of roads have acquired a major of urban land. The decreasing
percentage of green area in cities is responsible for disturbing the balance
between green and grey.

HYPOTHESIS

Vertical landscaping as a solution for dynamic facade.

AIM

To study whether vertical landscaping is a solution for dynamic facade

OBJECTIVES

Objective 1: To study and understand all aspects of vertical landscaping.

 Components, elements, need, impact and technology of vertical landscaping.
Objective 2: To study and understand all aspects of dynamic façade.
 To study the meaning of dynamic facade.
Objective 3: Analysis through case studies study.
Objective 4: Conclusion

SCOPE & LIMITATIONS

 Conclusion and recommendation will be presented for hot and dry climate high rise
building.
 Energy calculations may be adopted, time permitting.
 Project estimation will not considered as a part of study.
 To study only elements of vertical landscaping.

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 10

 METHODOLOGY

Vertical landscaping as a solution for dynamic facade

To study whether vertical landscaping is a solution for dynamic facade

OBJECTIVES
OBJECTIVES
To study and understand
all aspects of vertical To study and understand
landscaping. all aspects of dynamic
facade
To study the components,
elements, need and To study the meaning of
technology of vertical dynamic façade.
landscaping

DATA COLLECTION

PRIMARY SECONDARY

Through literature Through live case

case studies studies.

Literature reviews Surveys

To find out the

parameters for the
dissertation
Conclusion and
Recommendation

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 11

CHAPTER 2:
DEFINATIONS

2.1 What is vertical landscaping?

2.2 History of vertical landscaping
2.3 Types of vertical landscaping
2.4 Benefits of vertical landscaping
2.5 Applications
2.6 Conclusion

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 12

2.1 WHAT IS VERTICAL LANDSCAPING

A vertical landscaping or green wall is a wall partially or completely covered with

greenery that includes a growing medium such as soil. Most green walls also
features an integrated water delivery system. Green walls are also known as living
walls or vertical garden. Vertical landscape have growing media supported on the
face of the wall, while green facades have soil only at the base of the wall and
support climbing plants on the face of the wall to create the green or vegetated
facade. Vertical landscaping are also known as green walls or vertical gardens.
Vertical landscaping is a wall partially or completely covered with greenery that
includes a growing medium, such as soil. Most these walls also feature an
integrated water delivery system. Green walls have growing media supported on
the face of the wall, while green facades have soil only at the base of the wall in
a container or in ground and support base of the wall to create the green or
vegetated façade. It comprises a simple system that sees plants growing directly
from the earth or in a grounded planter box.

Self-climbing plant attaching directly Twining and tendril façade using a

to the façade support structure

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 13

Green walls need a high level of irrigation.
Water can be recirculated through the
system, but this needs careful monitoring
to ensure nutrients do not build up to
dangerous levels. The irrigation system
often includes addition of fertiliser). The
green wall structure can vary from modular
systems to sheet or board-based structures
with felt pockets supporting plant life.
Selection of a green wall should consider
Direct facade greening, St Kilda road, Southbank
cost, function, quality, lifespan and
ongoing maintenance requirements. A well designed system will fulfil its function,
have a long lifespan, require minimal component replacement, and sustain
growing conditions suitable for the selected species and low maintenance
requirements. Green walls are often installed because they provide an attractive
look to a building wall or are being used to shield a view or provide shade. Green
wall generally create a cooler microclimate next to a building through shading
VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 14
and evapotranspiration. All climbing plants will provide some retention of storm
water, cooling of the building, protection of the building, capture of air-borne
particulate matter and improvement in air quality, but these benefits will be
greater for evergreen species with year-round cover. For multi-level green wall,
wind can be a problem for plant attachment. Greening on a support structure is
preferred in these situations because twining climbers will be better attached
than plants adhering directly on the building façade. The drainage of planter
boxes, maintenance access and water pressures must be considered when
greening many levels of a tall building.

2.2HISTORY

The ancient concept of Green walls was built in Babylon about 2500 years ago.
King Nebuchadnezzar II built the Hanging Gardens of Babylon: a wonder of the
ancient world, and ancestor of the modern green wall (Ashmawy 2006, Hamilton
2009, Green roofs for healthy cities, 2008).Between 3rd BC 17th AD Romans train
grape on garden trellis and on villa walls. In 1920’s Britannia and North America
promote trellis structures and self-climbing plants on houses and gardens In 1988
started to use stainless steel cable system for green facades Early 1990’s cable
and wire-rope net systems and modular trellis panel systems enter the North
American marketplace. First major application of a trellis panel system had been
used in Universal City Walk on California in 1993 and in 1994. Indoor living wall
with bio filtration system installed in Canada Life Building in Toronto (Green Roofs
Organization 2008). Green walls are not only spectacularly beautiful, but also
helpful in enlivening the ambiance. Green walls can absorb heated gas in the air,
lower both indoor and outdoor temperature, providing a healthier indoor air
quality as well as a more beautiful space.

2.3 TYPES OF VERTICAL LANDSCAPING

SEMI INTENSIVE GREEN WALLS

 As a wide-range option, semi-intensive green walls are made up of planter

boxes or container that attaches to the wall with plants growing inside
them. they can came in ready to go kits consisting inside them of a frame
container & irrigation or can take a DIY approach and attach planters to a
wall at a lesser expense.

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 15

INTENSIVE GREEN WALL
 These more complex system create a thick lush and instant green wall
where layers of felt are attached to the wall and plants added into felt
packets. They require little soil, but do need irrigation system in place to
provide plants with water and nutrients.

2.4 BENEFITS OF VERTICAL LANDSCAPING

 Increased property value and other benefits for building owners
Green roofs, walls and facades are increasingly used by building owners to add a
point of difference to their building. A green façade or wall can add an element
of prestige and beauty to a building. The green roof can be a versatile space used
for recreation, urban agriculture or a commercial space for a bar or café. The
majority of building owners in Melbourne ignore the potential of the leasable
spaces on roof tops, which can be almost as large in area as the floors below
them. The construction of a green roof, wall or façade can happen relatively
independently from the rest of a building project and therefore pose very little
risk of delaying the construction of a new building. That said it is still very
important to include installation specialists in early discussions of the
construction project timelines. As “green” design technologies can be retrofitted
to old structures, the benefits are not limited to new buildings. Green
technologies are capable of rejuvenating ageing structures and thereby
increasing property values in the short and long term. Green roofs can lengthen
the lifespan of a traditional roof by providing additional protection of the roof’s
waterproofing membrane. The green roof adds a layer of organic and inorganic
insulation which reduces the stress placed on the membrane by preventing
severe fluctuations in temperature. The protection afforded to roofs is especially
important in Australia where exposure to ultraviolet radiation can be extreme.
 Storm Water Management
Green roofs absorb and retain water and are one strategy for controlling
rainwater runoff in urban environments. Green roofs intercept and retain water
from the early part of a storm, and limit the amount of run-off in larger storms.
Water is stored in the substrate, used by or stored in plant’s foliage, stems or
roots, or evaporates off the substrate surface. Additional water storage capacity
is available in green roof systems which have a water retention layer. As well as
helping to slow and reduce storm water run-off, green roofs can also filter
particulates and pollutants. The extent to which a green roof can control the
volume of water runoff is influenced by the depth of the growing substrate and
drainage layer, consistency and porosity of the growing substrate, structure of

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 16

the drainage layer, and slope of the site. The type of plant species and type of
drainage system are important factors to consider when designing a green roof
system for water treatment. The run off diversion for green roofs is also
influenced by the weather conditions of the region. The length, intensity and
frequency of rain events influence a green roof’s ability to retain water.
 Improved thermal performance
One of the biggest benefits of green roofs, walls and facades for building owners
or tenants is in reduced heating and cooling costs. Walls and facades minimise
heat gain in summer by providing shading. The insulation provided by green roofs
reduces heat transfer through the roof and ambient temperature on the roof
surface, resulting in better performing Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning
(HVAC) systems. Whilst there is great potential for cooling of buildings, the
research results vary significantly in how much difference in temperature, and
effect on energy savings can be detected between buildings with green walls. The
variety in results is because the amount of energy saved depends on:
 The percentage of wall covered by a green wall
 The thickness of insulation
 The height of the building (the floor directly under the green wall receives
most benefit)
 The type of vegetation used
 climatic conditions and microclimate of the building
 HVAC system efficiency
 Cooling a city - Urban heat island effect
Hard surfaces in urban environments such as buildings, conventional roofs, roads
and parking lots contribute to a rise in ambient temperature, known as the Urban
Heat Island Effect. This condition can lead to negative effects on days of extreme
heat in urban environments (heat related illness, ground level smog formation).
Green roofs, walls and facades implemented as a city-wide strategy, can mitigate
this effect.
 Creation and preservation of habitat and ecological biodiversity
Green roofs can contribute to conservation and enhancement of biodiversity by
providing habitat in areas where there is very little, creating new links between
existing habitat areas and providing additional habitat for rare or otherwise
important species. Green roofs can provide a link for migration of plants,
invertebrates and birds, if consideration is given to this at the design stage.
Designing for biodiversity needs consideration of plant species, food sources and
building height. Plants selected primarily for storm water management, aesthetic
or human use may not provide ecological diversity or habitat.

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 17

  Aesthetics, open space and urban agriculture
Liveability of cities, especially those undergoing rapid population growth and
building development, is dependent on availability of open space. Green roofs,
walls and facades help increase amenity and open space and food production,
and can extend commercial and recreational space. It has been suggested that
including greenery in the cityscape reduces stress and patient recovery time,
improves worker productivity, decreases noise, increases property values and
has been linked to a reduction in crime. Urban agriculture is one way to help
ensure food security, enhance community participation in the food system and
improve health. Food producing gardens located on rooftops can replace the
backyard veggie patch, be a community gathering place, provide food for local
distribution, supplement a restaurant kitchen or even for sale on a commercial
scale. Food producing walls are also possible. The importance of green roofs,
walls and facades in providing green space in dense urban areas should not be
underestimated. Especially in inner Melbourne, it can be difficult to create new
parks and gardens as most space is already taken up with built infrastructure and
purchasing land is restricted by increasing land prices.
 Cleaning the air
Plants on green roofs, walls and facades can be effective at removing pollutants
from the air depending on the type of plant, leaf surface and leaf tissue. Green
walls with a very dense leaf area per square metre have been shown to be
effective in removing particulate matter. Green roofs, walls and facades also help
improve air quality by controlling heat gain and the associated generation of
smog. Indoor green walls and facades can help remove trace organic pollutants
and volatile organic compounds.

2.5 APPLICATION OF VERTICAL LANDSCAPING

Green walls are usually installed to provide an attractive design feature, but can
also create cooler microclimates, improve local air quality and sustain greenery
in locations where other vegetation could not be supported. A wide range of
different plants can be used in green walls, particularly herbaceous materials.
Adequate light is an important consideration for all walls, and in some interior
settings supplementary lighting is necessary to ensure success

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 18

  ART WALL

Art Aqua- Munchen Germany, Occhio stor

 FORMAL INTERIORS

Mass Studies, Seoul – Ann Demeulemeester Shop

 NATURAL INTERIORS

Terra Screen, Planterra,

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 19

 CONTRAST

Singapore, http://seksan.com/sgf.html

 EXTERIORS

http://reneefinberg.blogspot.com/2009/06/, Renee Finberg

 ENTRYWAYS

Williamsburg, Oulu Bar

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 20
2.7 CONCLUSION

In above research I conclude that vertical landscaping is now crucial in urban

areas and is now, in present days, is using in different ways and for different
purposes. Now to prove whether it can be solution for dynamic façade,
parameters of dynamic façade must also be known.

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 21

CHAPTER 3:
INTRODUCTION TO DYNAMIC FACADES

3.1 MEANING OF DYNAMIC

3.2 MEANING OF DYNAMIC FAÇADE
3.3 CONCLUSION

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 22

3.1MEANING OF DYNAMIC

A process of system or a thing in which a constant change, activity, or progress

occurs is a dynamic.

Factor of dynamic

1. Growth
 The process of increasing in size
 The process of developing physically
 The process of increasing in amount, value

2. Flexibility
 The quality of easily bending easily without breaking
 Ability to easily modified
 Willingness to change or compromise
3. Mobile
 The process of moving
 The process of changing
 Ability to adjustable
4. Vital
 Absolutely necessary
 Essential
5. Lively
 Full of energy and life
 Active and outgoing

3.2MEANING OF DYNAMIC FAÇADE

Dynamic facades are also known as responsive facades. They exhibit an ability to
comprehend and learn from their surroundings, adjusting their behaviour
accordingly. The skin is not inert but transforms dynamically to regulate the
internal environment, reducing its power demands and increases human
comfort.

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 23

  Dynamic Façade- Folding panels made of perforated aluminium move
according to a set of variables
 Shading -Perforated panels act as shading systems
 View- Glass façade
 Dynamic Façade - Automated control of folding panels, Manual override
by occupants

Source: Ernst Giselbrecht + Partner!

3.3 CONCLUSION

In this chapter the meaning and process of dynamic façade is introduced. To

fulfil these parameters of dynamic façade some case studies is done in the next
chapter.

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 24

CHAPTER 4:
CASE STUDIES

4.1 MODULAR GREEN WALL

4.2 TRIPTYCH APARTMENTS GREEN WALL
4.3 RMIT UNIVERSITY CITY CAMPUS, MELBOURNE
4.4 KMC CORPORATE OFFICE,HYDERABAD
4.5 CONCLUSION

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 25

4.1 MODULAR GREEN WALL
A modular green wall unit being constructed in the foyer of 459 Little Collins
Street, Melbourne. The modules were planted off-site and delivered ready-to-
install. Each module contains 16 smaller containers, each with one plant and
some substrate. The internal wall receives little sunlight, so a specialised lighting
system was installed to support plant growth.

Pre-planted green wall modules being

installed

The green wall 12 months after

construction

Fully established green wall 2 years

after construction

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 26

4.2 TRIPTYCH APARTMENTS

Project type
Large-scale outdoor
green wall,

Location
8-10 Kavanagh Street,
Southbank

Cost
$350,000

Completion date
2009
Context

Triptych Apartments were designed with a large green wall on the exterior façade
of the building. Visible from the street, the feature was considered by the
developer to provide ‘wow-factor’, setting the building apart from other inner
city residences and blending in with the leafy streetscape. The green wall is
located on the south-east façade of the apartment building, extending from the
second level upwards.
The purposes of the green wall were to obscure the view of the exterior of the
multi-level parking area, to use foliage to soften the built environment, to provide
habitat and increase diversity through the use of native and exotic plant species,
and to utilise collected rainwater. The project was completed in collaboration
between Stable Properties, Nettleton tribe Architects and green wall specialists
Fytogreen.

Design and Components

The wall is 206 square metres and includes 362 planting panels measuring 100cm
x 50cm x 15cm along with 44 planting panels measuring 75cm x 50cm x 15cm. It
is designed for a weight loading of 80kg/m2 dead load. The green wall was
designed to minimise maintenance and enhance resilience and natural balance.
A thorough site analysis was used as the starting point for the design to ensure
that the green wall would be successful in its environment. The swathes (planted
sections of different species) were specifically designed to control lateral wind
movement over the host wall surface, either mitigating wind damage or creating
niches for species in the leeward sides

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 27

.
Front on image shows swathes of different Fytogreen concept drawing of swathes
species across the modules

Irrigation
The plants are irrigated
using a dripper system that
runs to each separate
module, using collected
rainwater and
supplementing with mains
water as required. Fertiliser
is also delivered via the
irrigation drip system. The
stainless steel surrounding
each panel guides any
excess moisture down to a
steel drip tray at the base of
the vertical garden.
Plants
The design of the wall features native and exotic plant species, chosen for
aesthetic appeal, durability and biodiversity. The planting plan factored in the
differing levels of sun and shade across the wall surface, and the impact of plants
shading one and other as they grow. At 15 plants per panel, a total of 5958 plants
were needed to complete the green wall. For the planting stock, 140mm
container specimens were grown in an offsite greenhouse for 8 – 12 weeks
before installation. Established plants were used because they are more resilient
to wind and provided immediate visual impact upon installation. In addition to
aesthetic appeal, plant species were chosen to be hardy, low maintenance and
shade tolerant. Many of the species used on the wall feature coloured foliage or
VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 28
flowers throughout the year, contributing to the beauty of the design. Careful
consideration was given to the combination of species used, and their placement
in relation to each other. All species were selected to best offer cumulative
controls of pests and disease spread, wind, light, moisture and to manage
competition between species. The long-term growth patterns and likely reaction
to the environment were also considered. High foliage coverage was sought for
visual appeal and also to out-compete weeds.

Fytogreen sketch of swathes with species plan

Maintenance

By choosing species that respond well to each other, the green wall requires less
maintenance than a more rigid design. The owners favoured this approach
because it offered a long term, adaptable and sustainable solution. Maintenance
is moderately fluid, pending seasonal changes, client’s expectations and
aesthetic. The Triptych owners embraced natural aesthetic forms and ongoing
species self-adjusting, leading to a less restrictive maintenance process. Knuckle
boom lift access, requiring a small team of horticulturists, is generally conducted
every 3 months, though this is flexible. Monthly checks are conducted by a single
person, to assess water supply, quality and general garden condition.

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 29

4.3 RMIT UNIVERSITY CITY CAMPUS

Project type Green façade

Location
RMIT University city campus
124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne

Completion date
2011

Context
Retrofit, no heritage
considerations

Size
122 square metres

The RMIT University city campus in Melbourne is a publicly accessible space made
up of historical and modern buildings, interspersed with functional open areas.
Building 21 was acquired by the university in 1997. Designed in the late 1950’s as
part of the original Magistrates Court Legal Precinct it sits landlocked between
the Francis Ormond Building and Building 20 with the back of the building facing
RMIT. This building looked out of place in the wider University Lawn Precinct and
needed a face lift to bring it in line with the wider aesthetic. A green façade was
constructed on the rear of the building to meet these design objectives.

DESIGN AND COMPONENTS: The green façade

was constructed on the north- and west-facing
external walls of Building 21 with the following
elements: A Ronstan X-TEND mesh trellis system
in a diamond-shaped pattern. The trellis system
is secured in place by steel framing at the top,
bottom and sides of the wall. There is a 40
centimetre gap between the trellis system and
the brick façade of the building so no root barrier
or waterproofing layers were needed. Planter
boxes which are mounted to the existing brick
façade using a galvanised steel frame, which
encases the entire planter box. Zinc sheet
vertical cladding covers the front of the boxes
VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 30
and extends down to hide the drainage system below. The sides and base of each
planter box are lined with Atlantis 30mm Flo-Cell drainage cell, and then covered
with 2mm Geo Textile BIDIM A14G membrane. The bases are lined with a 40mm
sheet of Hyrdocell hydro foam. A drip irrigation system, with a slotted Agidrain
pipe running along inside the base of the planter boxes to provide drainage.
Hydrocell 40 extensive media, a light-weight soil mix, was chosen to reduce stress
on the existing brick wall. The substrate was topped with a 45mm thick stone
mulch layer, to provide protection from the elements.

PLANTS
Forty nine individual plants were installed in the planter boxes, each were
140mm pot size. Temporary bamboo supports were used to help the plants
grow up and onto the trellis. For pre-grown plants, plastic clips were used at
intervals of 40cm to secure the climber to the trellis. Provided by Ronstan, the
clips are designed to allow for the plant to grow.

Pre-construction

8 months post-construction

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 31

26 months post-
construction

MAINTENANCE
The Building 21 green façade design considered maintenance requirements. The
location of the façade was considered feasible because the site can be accessed
with an elevated work platform. The planter boxes are raised above pedestrian
level, but are low enough to be accessed using a ladder. The green façade
requires a moderate level of maintenance, which is contracted to Rick Page
Landscaping, the university’s general landscaping contractor. Regular
maintenance tasks include:
• Inspection of irrigation system function using ladder) -Monthly
• Prune and retrain climber using elevated work platform – Twice annually (spring
and autumn)
• Fertilisation - Twice annually (autumn & spring), plus additional if required
• Comprehensive visual inspection (from ground) - Monthly
• General inspections – Weekly

RESULTS
The university and maintenance contractors consider the project to be a great
success. The ongoing level of maintenance required is able to be carried out as
part of general RMIT landscaping. The level of plant growth has exceeded
expectations, due in part to carefully planned maintenance and species selection.
RMIT are very satisfied with the project and feel that it has met all of their
expectations. The green façade has successfully transformed the appearance of
the plain brick building into an appealing continuation of the green landscape.
The green façade has added another dimension to University Lawn Precinct,
integrating the building with vegetated courtyards and gardens below
VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 32
KMC COOPERATE OFFICE
LOCATION: LAXMI CITY, WHITEFIELDS, HITEC CITY, HYDERABAD, TELANGANA,
INDIA

BEFORE VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AFTER VERTICAL LANDSCAPING

The corporate buildings employ the idea of a double skin as an energy saving and
visually striking device. The inner skin of the building is a reinforced concrete
frame with commonly uses aluminium windows.
The outer façade comprises of a custom cast aluminum trellis with hydroponic
trays integrated for growing a variety of plant species. The trellis also has an
integrated misting system in order to control and regulate the amount of water
released to the plants and trays. The principal of the façade is inspired by the idea
of double skin that allows a modulation of light and air through the building.With
hydroponic trays integrated for growing a variety of plant species. The trellis also
has an integrated misting system in order to control and regulate the amount of
water released to the plants and trays. The principal of the façade is inspired by
the idea of double skin that allows a modulation of light and air through the
building.
This is in contrast to the business-as-usual idea of the ‘Greenwell’, which is a
simple application on a surface purely serving an aesthetic, not a performative

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 33

function. In this project, the screen also takes on an aesthetic function of a
dynamic façade where assorted species are organized in a way to create patterns,
as well as bloom at various times of the year, bringing attention to different parts
of the building façade through the changing seasons.

Trellis Creepers

Ariel view

Internal facade

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 34

4.6 CONCLUSION
Above case studies I conclude that the case studies is suitable for analysis and
comparison for finding a solution for dynamic façade as a vertical landscaping.

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 35

CHAPTER 5: ANALYSIS

5.1 ANALYSIS

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 36

 CASE STUDIES MODULAR GREEN TRIPTYCH RMIT KMC COOPERATE
WALL APARTMENT UNIVERSITY OFFICE
PARAMETERS

The plants are The plants are of The shrubs are The creepers are not
increasing in size in different types not growing in growing in size
Growth
a duration of and are growing size
approx. 8 months in sizes

The plants are not The plants are not The shrubs are The creepers are
flexible to move on allowed to move free to move in allowed to move in
Mobile
any direction and in any direction any direction downward direction
cannot change except from front except in
after it attains its side upward
full growth direction

The shrubs are The creepers are

The plants don’t The plants don’t placed in such a allowed to bend both
Flexibility
have quality to have flexibility to way that it can in upward and
bend easily. bend in any only bend in downward direction
direction upward
direction

It is important and It is important It is important It is important and

necessary to and necessary to and necessary to necessary to
Vital
decrease the decrease the decrease the decrease the
pollution pollution pollution pollution

The plants are The plants are The plants are The plants are lively
Lively lively and façade lively and façade lively and façade and façade changes
changes because of changes because changes because of changes
changes occur in of changes occur because of occur in plants
plants species in plants species changes occur in species
plants species

It gives human It gives human It gives human It gives human

Human comfort comfort comfort and plays comfort and comfort and plays a
a role against plays a role role against heat loss
heat loss effect against heat loss effect and make the
effect people stress

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 37

CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

6.1 CONCLUSION
6.2 RECOMMENDATION

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 38

 6.1 CONCLUSION
For the above studies I conclude that vertical landscaping can be a solution
for dynamic façade and can plays a major role in urbanised areas. Type of
plants selection is also a major factor for justifying dynamic façade.

6.2 RECOMMENDATION
 Birla cement building’s facade (dynamic façade) can be replaced by
vertical landscaping, if needed
 The type of plants suitable for hot and dry region should be selected
Some suitable plants for vertical garden

SPECIES Deciduous(D) ASPECT Growth Soil Native

Evergreen(E) Bold: Rate (N)
Annual (A) preferred Exotic
Light: (E)
tolerated
Hedera E NESW Slow Rich N
helix

Parthenocissus D NESW Average Any E

quinquefolia

Parthenocissus D NESW Fast Any E

tricuspidata

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 39

Euonymus E NEW Slow any E
fortunei

Hydrangea D NEW Average Loamy E

petiolaris

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 40

BIBLIOGRAPHY
 http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1364032114006182
 http://theselfsufficientliving.com/10-best-and-suitable-plants-for-
vertical-garden/
 http://theselfsufficientliving.com/vertical-gardening-ideas-designs-and-
plans/
 https://igbc.in/igbc/redirectHtml.htm?redVal=showIgbcApnosign
 http://www.archdaily.com/384408/kmc-corporate-office-rma-architects
 http://cdn.intechopen.com/pdfs/45441/InTech-Vertical_gardens.pdf
 http://inhabitat.com/kiefer-technic-showroom-has-mind-blowing-
dancing-facade/
 http://www.dezeen.com/2014/04/30/hanwha-hq-seoul-unstudio-
dynamic-facade/
 http://dir.indiamart.com/impcat/vertical-gardens.html

VERTICAL LANDSCAPING AS A SOLUTION FOR DYNAMIC FACADE 41