The Challenge
A Deteriorating Green Space in Columbus OH
In April 2022, Oakland Green Interiors took over the horticultural service of the Huntington Center, a prestigious commercial building with vast potential for biophilic design. Upon arrival, our team encountered significant challenges. The property featured over 50 floor plants scattered between the main lobby and a 36th-floor rooftop tenant lounge, all in varying states of health and appearance. Additionally, a 2,400 square foot plant wall with 8,500 individual plants had fallen into disrepair, tarnishing the overall aesthetic of the building.
A Comprehensive Solution
Revitalizing and Maintaining Green Spaces
Our approach to revitalizing the Huntington Center involved a multifaceted strategy aimed at transforming the space into a vibrant, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing environment. Here’s how we tackled the challenges:
01
Revitalizing Floor Plants
To address the state of the floor plants, our technicians started by replacing the most unsightly specimens. For instance, we replaced four thin, overgrown bamboo palms with more robust and visually appealing plants. We pruned, cleaned, and removed damaged leaves, ensuring that each plant was restored to its optimal health. By restaging and sub-irrigating the plants, we eliminated the issue of leaning plants and ensured they adhered to our company standards.
Furthermore, we refreshed dated low-profile planters by removing stringy silver satin pothos and replacing them with a carpet of cushion/pool moss. This not only enhanced the visual appeal but also helped manage the client’s replacement budget. Systematic pesticide treatments were applied to address mealybugs, and tired spathiphyllum plants were replaced with kangaroo ferns, which are more interesting and durable.
02
Strategic Plant Arrangements and Maintenance
Our technicians didn’t just stop at reviving the plants; they went a step further by enhancing the overall design. By moving plants from awkward or low-light areas to spaces with better visibility and impact, and creating visually interesting groupings, the plants now contribute significantly to the aesthetic appeal of the space. Regular, consistent maintenance has ensured that plants initially destined for replacement have revived and flourished.
For the plant wall, our team conducts bi-weekly maintenance sessions, which involve vertical lifts and physical climbing to access hard-to-reach areas. Regular grooming, pest control, and plant replacements have restored the wall to its former glory, making it a showpiece of the building. Seasonal rotations of color, such as bromeliads in summer and kale, celosia, and coleus in fall, keep the display fresh and engaging for tenants and visitors.
03
Efficient Resource Management and Client Collaboration
To maintain the plants efficiently, we stored a 22-gallon water tank on the premises, with janitor sink hookups on the lower level and the 36th floor for easy water access. The property management company views us as partners, granting us easy access via a loading dock and an access card for the freight elevator. Our team also has access to a dedicated vertical lift and has been trained in safe use and best practices.
Our client’s enthusiasm for design changes and plant replacements, coupled with their commitment to biophilic design, has been instrumental in our success. This collaborative relationship allows us to implement our interior plant service and plant watering service effectively, ensuring the Huntington Center remains a visually stunning and healthy environment.
The Outcome
Breathing New Life into the Huntington Center
The results of our efforts have been nothing short of transformative. Through bi-weekly visits and consistent care, our two maintenance technicians have significantly improved the overall environment of the Huntington Center. The intentional plant groupings and visible arrangements have garnered regular compliments for their beauty and creative designs.
Our success is evident in the positive feedback from the client. According to Hines, the property management company, “We’ve experienced a remarkable transformation since transitioning to Oakland Green Interiors. From rehabilitating our plant walls with creative and fresh perspectives to delivering exceptional service, OGI has brought Huntington Center exceptional service since day one, and we are happy to have them as partners.”
This project showcases our expertise in interior plant maintenance and plant watering service, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Huntington Center to further enhance their plant program and boost the biophilic elements throughout the space.
Conclusion
Elevate Your Space with Oakland Green Interiors
Oakland Green Interiors’ expertise in plant wall installations and innovative plant staging solutions makes us a trusted partner for transforming any space. Whether it’s a commercial development like Huntington center or a smaller residential project, our team is dedicated to bringing the beauty and benefits of plants to your surroundings.
If you are looking to enhance your space with natural and unique plant designs, contact us today to request a proposal and see how we can bring your vision to life.
