Evergreen Interiors
Project Brief and Vision
This project was for an existing customer in an existing space we serviced that was having major
renovations and improvements. The client had already selected all the finishes and design elements they
wanted for the space and allowed us to make design suggestions for our portion of installation. We were
able to see the complete renovation first and pick design elements to complement with our pot and
planter selection from there. We considered the texture of a brick wall, the linear features of the black
paneled wall, current trends and the clients design for a modern and non-conventional commercial space.
Impact on the Space
We chose several new planters to the market from Just Add Plants in a Mediterranean and sleek style that
complemented features in the building’s renovation. The terracotta planter boxes against the charred
black linear wall paneling offset each other while giving a nod to and tying in the feature brick wall
opposite. Around the corner, the matte black vertically lined planters tie into the featured wall paneling and
are complete a cohesive stylet throughout. The planters lining the wall act as a natural director to head up
the hallway and guide visitors to the main stairwell and elevator. The overall atmosphere is drastically
improved; without the installation it would be a wide-open room with no direction or flair.
Longevity of Design
While some elements of the planters are on trend right now, they are also classics. This, along with the
minimalism of the space will allow the install to last for years into the future, beyond the trends. We stuck
to classic plant selections for this reason also. The light and airflow of this space have allowed plants
maintained in this space previously to not only survive but flourish and even outgrow their positions.
Previous plants in this space were kept in place for almost 2 years without replacement.
Plant Selection
For the planter boxes Spathiphyllum and Sansevieria were selected. For individual planters, Spathiphyllum,
Dieffenbachia and Dracaena Massangeana were selected. Spathiphyllum were selected to add a deep
green contrast to the black and terracotta and soften the hardness of the wall and planter. The Sansevieria
were selected to complement the linear paneled wall and tie in with the pattern of the large Dieffenbachia.
Containers
A majority of the planters were purchased new, apart from one large matte white cup that the clients
wanted to keep form the previous installation we had done 2 years prior. We chose the new planters
specifically to complement and enhance the design elements the clients had chosen for the renovation of
this space.
Top Dressing
Cocofibre was selected for design feature and maintenance reasons. We wanted another element to
soften the harshness of the wall, brick and white hallway. It also aids in keeping the moisture in the plants
and containers as this space drys out with the access doors opening and blowing air in.
Access and Work Area Obstacles
The main foyer area is a thoroughfare to the tenants of the building. It was important to keep installation
equipment all to one side and minimise our time there. Most work was done offsite, such as leaf care and
wicking material installation to ensure a smooth and timely install.
Unique Materials
Even though it is on trend, typically terracotta isn’t chosen for commercial spaces. It was chosen to tie in
with the texture and colour of the feature brick wall in the space. I think this is a great step away from the
traditional white gloss pot, in a commercial space that is often requested.
New Plant Varieties
No unique plant varieties were used in this project, however pairing Spathiphyllum and Sansevieria is not a
common pairing, and we believe it reflects the hardness and softness of all design elements chosen for
this project.
Innovative Design Features
No one unique features stand out, though the combination in the design features of the building and
features in planters and plants we chose to make a cohesive design makes the project innovative, modern
and different for a conventional commercial space.
Maintenance Schedule
We will be maintaining this installation on a fortnightly rotation going forward. The planter boxes aren’t
manufactured for self-watering, so we implemented our own system in the planter to enable easy
maintenance and self-watering.
Disease and Pest Control
Our approach to pest and disease management is simple, thorough and regular cleaning of the area and
plant. Spot treat pest as they appear. If the spot treating wasn’t successful and the pest is spreading,
remove the affected plants. We practice early intervention and quick rotations of plants to make sure we
have healthy stock rotation and minimal plant wastage.
Environmental Conditions
As we already had worked in the space before we knew the lighting, temperature, and airflow were all
optimal for plants and would benefit this installation. The previous plants absolutely thrived in the area,
and we had no replacements for the previous year and a half.
Use of Sub-Irrigation Technology
Individual planters purchased from Just Add Plants were self-watering which enable us to keep the plant
healthier long term and use fortnightly to three weekly maintenance cycles. The planter boxes however
were open planters and therefore we had to use our own system of buckets and risers to make a self
watering pot.
Pruning Practices
With our fortnightly maintenance schedule, we ensure all equipment is clean and sterilized while trimming
low and precisely. These plants in this area this installation have already grown, the space allows them to
grow larger, we also constantly turn the plants to ensure even growth.
INDUSTRY NEWS
POSTED 11/2025
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