Across the UK, the way we design buildings is changing.
Architects, developers and local authorities are increasingly rethinking building design, moving beyond standard construction practices to integrate Green Walls that not only enhance buildings’ environmental performance, but also the wellbeing of the people who live, work and study in them. As urban areas continue to grow, there is a stronger emphasis on creating spaces that are healthier, greener and more connected to nature.
This shift has, understandably, brought biophilic design firmly into the spotlight.
Designing Buildings Around Wellbeing
Biophilic design is centred around the key idea that people feel better when they are surrounded by natural elements. In modern cities where green space can often be limited, buildings and façades provide the perfect opportunity to reintroduce planting, biodiversity and natural textures into the urban environment.
Bringing Nature Into Urban Spaces
One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through living walls.
At MMA Architectural Systems, we have seen a significant increase in demand for Green Wall systems across a wide range of projects. What was once considered an added architectural feature is now becoming an essential part of contemporary building design.
These systems are no longer simply about aesthetics. While they undeniably create striking visual impact, they also deliver practical environmental benefits that support long term sustainability goals.
Living façades can help reduce the urban heat island (UHI) effect, improve air quality and encourage biodiversity in heavily built-up areas. They also provide shading to building exteriors, helping regulate surface temperatures and supporting overall building performance.
For architects and developers working towards more sustainable buildings, they offer a solution which is as practical as it is visually engaging.
A More Natural Approach to Vertical Greening
At MMA Architectural Systems, we supply and install Jakob Green Wall systems which use stainless steel rope, rod and mesh structures designed to support climbing plants. Unlike modular systems, climbing façades provide a lighter, more natural approach to vertical greening, using integrated support structures that encourage healthy plant growth while protecting the building envelope through controlled stand-off fixing systems. Plants grow organically over time, creating a living façade that evolves naturally alongside the building and its surrounding environment.
The systems are lightweight, durable and adaptable to both new build and retrofit applications. This means they can be designed to suit everything from commercial developments and residential schemes to schools, public buildings and infrastructure projects.
As the planting matures, the structure becomes more integrated with the architecture itself, softening hard surfaces and introducing seasonal variation and texture to the façade.
Creating Greener Cities Through Design
We have delivered living wall systems on projects throughout the UK, helping create sustainable urban environments. One notable example is the living wall installation at One Hyde Park in London. The Jakob system was used to create a striking green façade that helps connect the development with the surrounding landscape of Hyde Park, resulting in a solution that provides environmental and visual benefits.
Closer to home, our Green Wall projects in Bath demonstrate how vertical greening can transform urban developments by introducing planting into areas where traditional landscaping may not be possible.
The Future of Biophilic Design
As more cities focus on sustainability, biodiversity and wellbeing, Green Walls are becoming increasingly important within architectural design.
They offer a way to maximise biodiverse space in dense urban environments while also creating buildings that feel more welcoming and connected to nature.
Biophilic design is no longer viewed as a passing trend, it is shaping the future of architecture.
Here at MMA Architectural Systems, we believe these systems will continue to play a major role in that future, helping create buildings and spaces that not only look exceptional but also contribute positively to the people and environments around them.
