Living Wall and Living Walls are common terms to describe a green wall, green facade, hedge, hedgerow or wall that is partially or completely covered with vegetation.
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There are many types of living walls. Although a hedge or green wall may refer to a living wall, there are distinct differences between the two. A hedge is a wall that is almost entirely composed of plants, such as trimmed shrubs, whereas a green wall is typically referred to as a wall that is covered partially or entirely by plants or ivy. Living walls are more commonly known as green walls, particularly with the development of recent technological innovations that allow for walls to be entirely covered by irrigated living plants.
See green wall. There are a couple types of green walls, such as loose mediums, mat type, and structural green walls.
Living Walls help to reduce local wind speeds, traffic noise, and localized temperature extremes (The Urban Heat Island) by shading and converting liquid water to water vapour (evapotranspiration) which cools the air. They help to improve air quality by reducing dust and particulates and help to reduce the amount of heat lost from a home. Another significant benefit is the increase in biodiversity, along with aid for food and shelter for wildlife. Living walls can also significantly increase infiltration and storage of rainwater through their root systems.
Living walls may have a positive impact on both physical & mental health and wellbeing. Green views and access to green spaces in cities help and relieve the everyday pressures of crowding and noise. They may have a positive impact on crime reduction since residents living in ‘greener’ surroundings actually report lower levels of fear, fewer incivilities, and less violent behavior. Living walls can benefit communities socially by instilling higher public esteem and pride for an area.
Living walls are unlikely to be graffitied, improve the quality and perception of the urban environment, and can provide security as a dense and natural barrier for unwanted guests.
Living walls can have seasonal variations in colour, growth, flowers, and perfume which provide all year round interest.
Living walls can provide local fruit and vegetation for the community.
Living walls and other planting have the potential to increase residential and commercial property values by between 7% and 15%. They help to create a positive perception for prospective purchasers of property. They soften newly built houses and give immediate character and warmth. Further, they can improve the environmental performance of buildings and therefore the economic performance through reducing heating and cooling costs.
Living walls provide screening and /or barriers where fencing regulations may limit alternatives. They may enhance the prospects of securing planning permission.
Forest Research, Particulate Pollution 2007.