Bobarino’s outdoor dining area on the Skydeck at B.O.B. Grand Rapids, MI.

In today’s built environments, designers and property owners are often looking for ways to reduce noise and create privacy without sacrificing openness or aesthetics. Traditional solutions like fencing, acoustic panels, or partitions may solve one problem, but rarely both. A LiveWall system offers a more integrated approach, combining sound attenuation and visual screening in a single living feature.

A Natural Solution for Noise Reduction

Hard surfaces such as glass, concrete, and metal reflect sound, creating echo and background noise that can make spaces feel stressful or chaotic. LiveWall® systems help soften these environments by introducing a multi-layered, sound-absorbing surface. Plant foliage, growing media, and the wall structure work together to diffuse and absorb sound waves, reducing ambient noise and reverberation.

This effect is especially valuable in hospitality, retail, workplace, and public environments where comfort and conversation matter.

At Bobarino’s Outdoor Dining Area, lush vertical gardens surround the patio dining areas, helping create a more secluded and comfortable atmosphere in the middle of a busy downtown setting. The planted walls soften the urban environment while enhancing the overall dining experience.

The “Sound Wall” at Sovengard Restaurant, Grand Rapids, MI.

The “sound wall” at Sovengard Restaurant was an answer to a building code requirement for a sound attenuation wall between the restaurant and the neighboring apartment buildings. The wall not only helped the restaurant meet the building code but also provided a beautiful backdrop to their bocci ball court and has been a source of flowers for table decorations and flavorful herbs used by the restaurant’s chef.

The large-scale Back to Eden installation at ArtPrize 2013 demonstrated these benefits on an even larger scale. The 1,400-square-foot living wall screened dumpsters, mechanical equipment, and service areas while also helping reduce noise and unpleasant odors surrounding the venue.

The “Back to Eden” LiveWall® art installation at ArtPrize 2013.

Another strong example is Breton Terrace Patio, where three LiveWalls® were installed around the enclosure of large air-conditioning units. The Living Walls help to buffer noise from the equipment while creating a more inviting outdoor environment for residents and visitors.

Multiple LiveWalls® surround the HVAC equipment on the patio at Holland Home Breton Terrace.

Privacy Without Closing Off Space

Unlike solid walls or barriers, LiveWall systems create privacy while maintaining airflow, natural light, and a sense of openness. Living walls can define spaces, soften sightlines, and screen unattractive views without making environments feel confined.

At Starbucks Victoria & Moon, a large outdoor green wall enhances the customer experience around the drive-through and patio areas. The wall was installed for sound attenuation and light-blocking, protecting neighbors from bothersome headlights during early morning and evening hours.

LiveWall® installation at the drive-thru of the Starbucks at Victoria & Moon in Ventura, California.

Plant selection also allows designers to customize the look of the screening. The LiveWall® removable planter inserts make moving or changing plants easy. Because living walls evolve over time, they also bring texture, movement, and seasonal interest that static materials simply cannot replicate.

One System, Multiple Benefits

What makes LiveWall unique is its ability to solve multiple design challenges at once. Instead of layering separate solutions for acoustics, privacy, aesthetics, and light-blocking, LiveWall integrates them into a single system that enhances both performance and experience.

Beyond practical function, living walls also support biophilic design by reconnecting people with nature. The result is a space that not only looks better, but feels better too.

Whether surrounding an outdoor dining patio, buffering noise in a residential courtyard, or screening mechanical equipment from view, LiveWall® transforms vertical surfaces into living assets that create quieter, more comfortable, and more visually engaging environments.

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