It will be a big understatement to say that the coronavirus pandemic has completely flipped the world, our society, and our habits. What was once society and culture that celebrated wandering, carefree exploration and social interaction has now been reduced to regulation of movements and strict social distancing at work. So, how do you design spaces for a society that is stuck indoors? What are the design principles for a world that is observing social distancing? How do we create design solutions that cater to the needs of people during the pandemic and have a positive impact on our changed habits?
Before the pandemic, people attended concerts, sporting events, workspaces, etc. without much thought about how safety was weaved into their experience. After 2020, all the spaces where people can congregate – offices, restaurants, schools, colleges, public transportation, museums, etc. need to be designed in a way to reduce the risk of viral transmission. Hence, the first design principle is obviously in terms of spatial planning. Where once, each space looked to bring a lot of people together to socialize, we need to come up with spaces and zones that try to keep people apart. From maximum occupancy levels, we have moved on to safe and spread out occupancy levels.
It’s not just about occupancy levels, but design spaces need to be redone. Planners need to create spaces which minimize people crossing each other’s path. Room dividers and partition walls are in high demand these days which are used by designers to create one-way paths. Traffic-flow rate, people density, traffic speed, movement direction, movement type (queuing, running, walking, etc.) are some of the most important designing principles for social distancing.
Humans are driven by behavior not by compliance. Over the years, we have learned to be together socially, which makes the phenomenon of social distancing unnatural. Hence, design spaces that help direct will go a long way in helping people move in the right direction and make good choices when it comes to social distancing at work. These nudges or cues can be anything in the form of signboards or announcements that remind them constantly of what is expected from them and encourage the ‘new’ behavior.
From airports to daily commute transit systems, offices to retail spaces, hospitals to hospitality spaces, every space needs to be designed in a purposeful way that drives positive change and encourages social distancing. In case of airports and transit systems, redesigning layouts and queuing strategies, combined with less human interaction and more automation can minimize the risk and help keep safe distances.
For hospitality and retail environments, it is important that designers understand that these spaces offer people an escape from home and spend some time outdoors in these difficult times. Apart from providing an engaging experience, these biophilic spaces too need to think about their layouts, queues, seating arrangements, and use of technology for ordering, gaining insights, and helping patrons make better, informed decisions.
The pandemic has given the design world a reminder that in this era of social distancing, large, open spaces with lower human density and reduced friction will save us.
How to Create Art with Moss
There are very few garden elements that are as soothing and comforting as Moss. This mysterious natural element brings such delightful color and texture to any landscape. No wonder Moss has found a place in our interior design in more forms than one over the last few years. Emerging from Moss, Moss Art is now a trend. Moss Art in décor conjures up feelings of calm, mystery, and nurture. Although it might sound difficult to create, it really is quite easy to make. All you need is some Preserved Moss, glue, and a substrate. Oh, and some creativity wouldn’t go amiss.
DIY Moss Art Frame
Moss is the green, lush canvas of nature, upon which lovely color palettes come to life. The color expression possibilities are endless. If you’d like to add real nature into your office or commercial space then sit back and relish without any additional maintenance with preserved moss and dried moss accessories on green wall decor that will likely be installed indoors. Here’s what you need: an empty photo frame, preserved moss, dried accessories such as dried twigs, bark shavings or dried seed pods, glue, pebbles (optional), and any other decorations of your choice.
- Start creating the Moss Art Frame by removing the glass panel from the frame. Now, you can create your art directly on the plywood or if you want, you can insert a sheet of paper and use it as the backdrop.
- Plan the art – Before you start gluing the materials, lay them out on the backdrop, and visualize your Moss art. Once you’re confident about where everything should go, start gluing.
- We recommend you use Preserved Moss for rich colors and realistic texture. SPD offers Preserved Moss and Faux Moss in various varieties, styles and forms so choose the one that best suits your vision. You could also color some pieces of Moss to create a unique masterpiece.
- Combine the Moss, dried twigs, bark shavings, seed pods, and everything you would like to include in your moss wall art.
- The best part of this DIY Moss Art Frame is that it is a cakewalk when it comes to maintenance. You just have to occasionally dust it and that’s it.
DIY Moss Panels
DIY Moss Panels are extremely easy to create. All you need to do is glue some Preserved Moss or Faux Moss on durable corrugated plastic sheets and then install them on your substrates.
Moss Signs and Logos
The best thing about Preserved Moss and Fake Moss is that they look incredibly rich and realistic and offer great versatility without any upkeep issues. You could cut these Moss sheets into various shapes and letters and then merge them to create attractive signs and logos.
Colorful Moss Art
You could either opt for Colored Moss or you can paint the Preserved Moss or Fake Moss available in the market. And you can do so much with colored moss. From creating a beach scene or fall scene to a colorful field, the design possibilities with colored Moss are endless. You are assured of absolutely stunning and picturesque art using colored moss.
Moss Animals
Draw a silhouette of any animal of your choice on the walls or any other substrate, cut and glue Preserved Moss on it and you’re all set. You could also color your Moss to give it a more realistic appeal and details.
Moss Art is a form of biophilic interior design where you integrate natural elements and materials into your interior design. You can do so much with Preserved Moss in your design to create a sense of well-being. It is so easy to create and the benefits of Moss Art are simply endless.
Focal Point: An Important Element in Any Design
From interior design to painting to photography, you will often hear the term ‘focal point’ in these discussions. But what exactly is a focal point? What is the purpose of a focal point? How do you create a focal point in a design? And how does it help the design? These are just a few questions we get from our clients while working on their commercial space design. We talked to our team of architects and designers about all things focal points and below we have summarized the learnings.
Focal point is the most important aspect in a design that tries to catch the eye of the viewer. It is an area of emphasis that demands the most attention by being more dramatic than all the other elements. It is the most eye-catching part of a design that is distinct from the rest of the design elements. In some cases, the focal point can be a bold piece or a group of items that stand out from the rest.
Color, size, shape, depth, texture, line, density, orientation, value, saturation, physical weight, etc. can be used to create a focal point which then becomes the main thing in the design scheme. Everything else is rendered as a supporting character and fades in the background. When it comes to interior design, a focal point can be anything from floors to lighting fixtures, big plants or large artificial trees, or even an architectural feature such as a fireplace that can capture the focus.
Each focal point has a purpose. It communicates for your design or helps in moving the eye around. It conveys the intent of the designer or the artist and adds more meaning to a design or work. Determining the focal point should come naturally and should not be left up to the viewer to guess. Simply put, the purpose of the focal point is to tell the viewer a story, what is more, important and to bring some drama.
Depending on what you want to communicate, a design can have one or even more than one focal point if required. These focal points can complement each other or compete where one can be the primary focal point and the rest one secondary. Ensure that you do not pile all the focal points in one section which will leave your interior design looking lopsided. Divide them so that you have a balanced space and let the viewer’s eye move around.
Keep in mind that multiple focal points are more suited for larger rooms that have multiple functional areas. Our experts suggest the ‘Rule of Three’ when it comes to the number of focal points. Even though you can have multiple ones in space, sticking to a maximum number of three focal points will ensure that your design is orderly.
A lot of thought should go into determining the focal point in a design. Even if you have a lot of standout elements, that does not mean you load them all in the space. Too many focal points without a plan, inconsistent placement, too many colors or sizes will only confuse the viewer, destroy the essence of your design, and mess up the story you are trying to convey. Also, it is not mandatory for a design to have a focal point. If it is well-designed and feels right, then do not worry about the focal point. Focal point may be the most important element in any design, but a design can look absolutely beautiful and feel unique without it as well.
17 Beautiful Moss Wall Ideas
Moss maybe millions of years old, but this captivating and mysterious design plant is still going strong in interior designs. Artists, architects, and designers are experimenting with this versatile plant to craft unique and creative designs. Incredibly artsy and decorative, Moss can be used to create Moss walls in various forms and styles that will give you a lively and inventive design scheme. Apart from creating a beautifully calming and uplifting indoor environment, you can create Moss walls that will give you a highly picturesque setting. Below are 17 absolutely stunning moss wall ideas that will instantly elevate the look and feel of your commercial space.
Branded Moss Walls
Your visual identity created in the smooth, velvety and soothing Moss. Do we need to say more? A great way to breathe life into your brand image, Moss logos work brilliantly for every business, small or large. No matter what color, shape or lettering you’re looking for, Moss logos can be created to help your business stand out.
Moss Wall Panels
Moss wall panels are ideal for small as well as large installations in reception areas, conference rooms, waiting areas, lobbies, and more. Whether you’re trying to mask unsightly views in the area or you’re looking to refresh the setting, Moss wall panels will add a powerful dose of liveliness to it.
Moss Maps
One great way to bring interest and at the same time satisfy the craving for eye-catching, serene greenery in space is through creating attractive Moss maps. You could either create a map of your business presence, your state, or even the entire world and make a lofty impression to space.
Moss Wall Signage
Create eye-catching and memorable wall signage using Moss. From directions to room names to department names to custom signs, Moss wall signage will instantly take bland lettering to the next level and at the same time decorate the setting. Moss wall signage is attractive with a generous side of whimsy.
Moss Frames
Whether you’re looking to create a cool, calm retreat or you’re searching for ways to display your photos, certificates, and other memories in style, Moss frames are the way to go. Groupings of circular or square frames will make the space more relaxing and cooler.
Moss Walls in Conference Rooms
Since conference room activities can get quite tense, a great way to inject a cool, calm vibe in it is by installing a preserved moss wall. It will prep up the overwhelming, chaotic conference room in no time. Elements which will instantly take a boring room from meh to mesmerizing, moss walls will make for a standout addition.
Moss Walls in Reception Areas
The reception area is the first thing that visitors encounter and offers a great opportunity to make a positive first impression on them. And what’s better than a soothing, smooth moss wall to make them feel welcomed and comfortable. A well-designed, attractive moss wall or Moss logos in the reception area will set the overall tone for your brand’s ethos and culture.
Moss Wall Art
Too often you’ll come across entryways and lobbies that are absolutely bland. This is a wasted opportunity as you can do so much in these areas. Moss walls in the entryway and lobbies will not only make your space seem interesting and cool, but it will have a wonderfully calming influence on the visitors. A mix of different colored Moss will go a long way in creating an absolutely vibrant lobby and entryway.
Storage Units with Moss Panels
Every business space has loads of furniture serving a practical purpose. More often than not, you have storage units and shelves that are completely unused and hence can be covered in Moss. Moss panels in storage units and shelves will not just catch the eye but bring great character to your space.
Moss Accent Walls
Whether you have a damaged or imperfect wall that needs masking or a completely dour, neutral space that needs some spark, Moss accent walls are ideal. They will not just hide flaws in your space but will perk up a dull, boring setting. The easiest way to add a cool, tranquil finishing touch to the room, Moss accent walls will add just the right amount of personality and rich appeal to the space.
Preserved Moss Walls
Maintenance Free Preserved Moss Walls are ideal for any commercial space that needs to create a timeless interior design without any hassles or extensive costs. Made from real moss that is preserved using various processes, preserved moss walls will give you a special, engaging design scheme which does not require regular upkeep.
Vertical Moss Gardens
If your commercial space lacks a pleasing view, then you can create one indoors with a striking vertical garden consisting of various Moss varieties and other greenery if required. Practical, show-stopping elements that will ensure you lovely, picturesque views season after season, vertical moss gardens will soak up all the anxiety from your space and soothe the setting.
Colorful Moss Walls
If you’re a fan of colors and want an energetic vibe flowing through your commercial space, then colorful moss walls are for you. Preserved Moss can be easily dyed in your corporate colors to give you colorful moss walls that are full of appeal and share’s your brands culture. Colorful Moss Walls offer a great way to add a splash of color to the setting and brighten things up.
Assorted Moss Walls
Reindeer Moss is usually the preferred Moss when it comes to creating Moss Walls but if you’re looking to bring various textures and forms in your space, then opt for an Assorted Moss Wall. From Spanish Moss to Reindeer Moss to Sphagnum Moss, you could mix the different varieties of preserved moss to create your own masterpiece.
Moss Wall Room Dividers
Moss wall room dividers work brilliantly for large or open spaces that want to divide their floor space into different zones in style. These dividers consist of preserved moss on both the sides that bring flair and personality to the design scheme and at the same time introduce privacy in the setting. Moss wall room dividers are free-standing, temporary dividing screens that are highly functional and look absolutely exotic.
Moss Wall Islands
Moss wall islands are moss elements that come in different sizes and shapes and can be applied to walls in various clusters. A fun and exciting way to introduce Moss in any design scheme, these islands will fix up the ambiance of any room and are known to bring a fresh, classy vibe to the setting. Moss wall islands are perfectly suited to spaces that are looking for solutions that don’t involve covering entire walls in Moss foliage.
Moss Wall Animals
An adorable and cutesy way to introduce Moss in space is using moss wall animals. Silhouettes of animals made out of moss foliage, these elements ensure you an eye-catching and refreshing display. From elephants to cats, dogs to giraffes, you can create Moss wall animals that will enhance your space instantly and wow your visitors. Moss wall animals truly create a memorable space.
Read also:
How to Create Art with Moss
Your Questions About Moss Walls Answered
Moss Walls Bring the Outside In
Increasing Energy Efficiency: Commercial Green Walls
Green walls offer an excellent way to not just create an inviting environment for brands, but they go a long way in improving employee productivity and concentration levels and energy cost reduction. Apart from enhancing the look and feel of a property, living walls help in improving the air quality and make a striking statement in the space. In the last few years, there has been a shift in consumption choices where consumers are increasingly considering businesses who are committed to sustainability and there is no better way to show your commitment towards the environment and its well-being than a living wall. Living walls aren’t just purveyors of good health for your employees, but they position you as a brand that is committed towards protecting the planet.
Living walls are known to create invigorating work environments, focused learning environments, relaxing retail environments, healing hospital spaces, and soothing, luxurious hotels and resorts. However, one of the main measurable benefits of green walls is that they can provide energy savings and environmental benefits. Interior and exterior living walls are known for the process of ‘evapotranspiration’, wherein water evaporates from plant leaves through transpiration and helps in cooling the air in the warmer summer months.
Evapotranspiration helps in cooling the air in much the same way as our skin cools the body through the process of sweating. Green backdrop wall contribute towards the reduction of air temperatures by as much as 10 degrees Celsius. Strategically installed, well-designed green walls can effectively reduce the solar heat absorbed by buildings and can reduce cooling costs by 30 percent.
When it comes to cooler winter months, living walls help in building insulation which helps in reducing the energy costs required for heating the building. By cooling the air in summers and insulating the space in winters, green walls drastically reduce the energy bills. They’re also found helpful in reducing temperature fluctuations at the surface of the wall, thus protecting the building over time. It is believed that on average, a well-designed commercial green wall and landscape can provide enough energy savings to return the initial investment in less than 8 years.
Commercial green walls can be best described as living air conditioners that can cool down your space in the summer months and can serve as insulating blankets during the harsh winter months. Apart from providing a lively aesthetic to your space, they can improve its performance considerably and go a long way in increasing energy efficiency.
How to Install Artificial Boxwood Panels Indoors
From hiding flaws in walls to masking unsightly views, artificial boxwood panels can do it all in style. They have the ability to breathe a refreshing and lively feel in any indoor space in no time. And the best part about these artificial foliage panels is that they provide a hassle-free, fantastic, year-round green cover in the setting and are absolutely easy to install. If you’re planning to introduce some artificial boxwood on your commercial property and are looking for help to install them, then fret not. Here’s how to go about it.
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Installing Artificial Boxwood Panels Indoors
Plantscape Commercial Silk provides custom artificial boxwood panels which come with snap-lock mechanisms and can be easily installed on any substrate in a few minutes. From corner panels to centerpiece panels, we have faux boxwood panels in a variety of shapes and styles to make installation a breeze. But, if you’ve ordered a large panel and plan to get creative with different shapes, then you’ll need to measure exactly how much foliage cover you need for the substrate and cut accordingly. We suggest you use a tape measure, note down exact measurements, draw your vision out on the wall or other substrate, and then proceed to cut the panel using a sharp pair of scissors.
The cut pieces of artificial hedges wall panels can be reassembled easily using cable or zip ties. This allows you to create custom shapes, sizes, styles with the utmost ease. Our faux boxwood panels are incredibly full and we can assure you that the cuts or ties won’t be visible.
Once you have all the panel pieces cut down, it is time to install them on the substrate. All our fake hedge wall panels come with a secure, snap-lock system on the sides of each panel that can be used to easily snap all the panel pieces together.
Now place the panel on the wall or any substrate you’re planning on using them on and stick them in place using nails or staples. Depending on the substrate type and its thickness, you’ll have to decide whether to use nails or staples.
This is it. You’ve successfully installed artificial boxwood hedge panels indoors in a matter of minutes and with the utmost ease. They will not just bring great function and color to your space but will create a most pleasant and soothing setting.