The Role of the Vertical Garden in the Recovery of the Cities

When we listen to the words ̈vertical garden ̈ our mind brings us images of high walls covered by vegetation from different species. Which are usually built by prefabricated systems, widely located in public spaces like buildings fronts or even in columns in roads. And although these spaces are usually very pleasing to the eye due to their colours, movement and even originality when transformed into sculptural elements we also understand that their function is more contemplative and the interaction with the consumer is less frequent and its maintenance is systematic.

On the other hand, the gardens built in terraces, yards, balconies or just in windows inside the buildings that can be seen easily from the streets while walking are part of this term because are also part of this term because together they form vertical green patches within cities.

Interior garden
Photography: Arch. Maricela López

Some examples of these are pre-established designs, this means that they are spaces recreated from the planning of the building and that give it a homogeneous appearance. However, the human footprint is undeniable and with time every space begins to have its own character which gives diversity to the city’s landscape.

The curiosity of creating these spaces is commonly born from the need of having a natural element at home. In large cities where living spaces are reduced as well as having little access to public spaces such as gardens or parks for reasons of remoteness, security, among others; recreating these environments to scale within the house becomes indispensable since contact with nature provides us with well-being and raises the quality of life.

Interior plants
Photography: Huy Phan

During the pandemic, as visits to outdoor spaces are further limited, the consequences on society can be varied, including depression due to isolation and confinement, in addition to of course a monotonous routine.

These are some of the reasons why during the pandemic we saw an increase in home gardens or vertical gardens turning them into a decoration of any space with plants, as well as the gardening itself into a kind of therapy and stress relief.

Hanging plants
Photography: Ksenia Chernaya

The direct and daily contact with plants has been a very noble resource that many people have adopted to keep themselves in a good mood during the pandemic plus this generates a new routine that replaces in some way the open space since you can have contact with nature from your home. Have in mind that this practice also generates a link with your plants which can prevail even after the quarantine.

In conclusion, small actions that save us from everyday events and sometimes also from the pandemic boredom this of course can make huge impacts, such as the raising of green areas that in group give a new view to the urban landscape as well as a more valued view towards nature and green spaces.