Vertical Gardens: Benefits and Building Codes

The presentation will provide an overview of vertical gardens, briefly covering their history as well as environmental, sustainability, and psychological benefits. The construction process will be discussed, with a focus on hydroponic systems, essential elements like water, light, and plant selection, and maintenance considerations. Relevant building codes, including structural, fire safety, and plumbing requirements, will be addressed to understand compliance. Additionally, the creative potential of biophilic design, including the use of preserved moss, will be explored. By the end, participants will understand how vertical gardens can be designed, built, and maintained to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

Speakers:
Stacy Coleman, President and CEO, Vertical Verte, LLC

About the Speaker:
Stacy Coleman, a native New Yorker, is the President and CEO of Vertical Verte, LLC, d/b/a Plantwalldesign, where she leads a team dedicated to transforming built environments with vertical gardens, interior plant-scapes and preserved moss art installations. Her career spans banking, healthcare, and biophilic design, blending strategic leadership with a passion for sustainable innovation. Coleman’s work focuses on integrating living architecture into interior spaces, helping architects, designers, and developers create environments that are both visually striking and environmentally impactful. Vertical gardens not only enhance aesthetics but also provide tangible benefits such as improving air quality, reducing ambient noise, and regulating indoor temperatures—contributing to more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.

Plantwalldesign has delivered iconic installations, including projects at Harvard University and Lincoln Center. The company’s designs reflect a commitment to artistry, sustainability, and functionality, offering solutions that align with the needs of modern architecture while fostering a connection to nature. With a strong background in organizational design and process innovation, Coleman has successfully led transformative initiatives across industries. Her expertise in managing complex projects and optimizing processes ensures that Plantwalldesign delivers high-quality, sustainable installations on time and within budget. Coleman's vision combines creativity and environmental stewardship, reimagining spaces to inspire, endure, and contribute to a greener future. She holds a B.A. from Boston College, and a M.A. from the University of Connecticut. She has presented on the subject of creativity, collaboration and performance at numerous venues and holds multiple design patents.