Ennismore Living Wall

Meristem Design transformed a plain brick wall into a lush, sustainable living feature at a private residence in Chelsea, London. The 7sqm living wall, visible from both the dining room and kitchen, enhances the home’s aesthetic appeal while promoting biodiversity.

To create a visually striking, low-maintenance living wall that integrates seamlessly with the residence’s surroundings while improving air quality and supporting urban greening initiatives.

The project included the design, installation, and maintenance of a 7sqm living wall alongside four planters. The planting scheme emphasized evergreen species to ensure year-round vibrancy, complemented by an automated irrigation system for efficient maintenance.

One of the main challenges was addressing a 2×1-metre gap where a large AC unit was situated on the lower ground level beneath the wall. This area needed to be covered to ensure the seamless installation and maintenance of the living wall while also protecting the plants from blasts of cold air during summer months.

To resolve this, we proposed installing a frame and mesh to shield the plants from cold air and create a suitable base for work. This critical component, completed by a third-party contractor, ensured the living wall could be securely installed while preserving the health of the plants. With the client’s request for a green-and-white color palette, the living wall was carefully curated with a selection of mostly evergreen plants, including:

• Polystichum setiferum
• Carex elata ‘Aureum’
• Pachysandra terminalis

To achieve the desired white accents, Helleborus niger was included, adding a delicate touch that perfectly complemented the lush greenery.