Transforming an Urban Bridge with Living Walls
In 2021, Life on Walls was appointed to deliver a living wall and urban greening scheme for The Westin London City, introducing planting to both the reception lobby and a pedestrian bridge spanning Lower Thames Street. The objective was to create a greener, more welcoming environment while delivering a practical, commercially viable solution within a complex city-centre setting.
The Challenge
The original bridge design proposed filling the entire bridge void to balustrade height with paving and multiple large root zones to support mature trees.
While visually impressive, this approach would have required substantial structural loading, significant material import, crane operations, and partial road closures on one of London’s busiest routes. It also introduced ongoing maintenance challenges and increased long-term operational costs.
The Solution
Rather than simply delivering the original specification, we re-engineered the scheme to achieve the same design intent more efficiently.
By eliminating the need for full structural infill, we significantly reduced material requirements and construction complexity. The resulting savings allowed more of the project budget to be invested in high-quality planting, creating a greener, more impactful living landscape.
The revised design also simplified future maintenance requirements, reducing operational burden while maintaining the architectural vision and environmental benefits of the project.
The Result
The completed scheme delivered a vibrant, sustainable green installation that enhanced both the hotel environment and the pedestrian experience.
By reducing construction complexity, avoiding road closures, and increasing the amount of planting, the project achieved a stronger environmental outcome while lowering overall project costs.
The solution was welcomed by the main contractor as an example of how intelligent living wall design and value engineering can deliver better commercial, operational, and sustainability outcomes.
To learn more about our living wall design, engineering, and installation services, contact our team.