Custom Living Wall - Stairwell Sanctuary

Stairwell Sanctuary – Palo Alto, CA

We transformed a bare stairwell wall into a vibrant vertical garden, creating a refreshing green escape in the heart of Palo Alto. This custom living wall installation combines shades of green and red foliage to soften hard lines and introduce a natural rhythm into the space. What was once an empty, unused wall is now a restorative focal point where residents can pause, breathe, and feel connected to nature.

Design Concept: The client’s goal was to make a stark transitional area feel inviting. Our team at Planted Places designed a soothing yet eye-catching palette that reflects seasonal variety and visual balance. The lush mix of plants provides subtle movement and texture, offering a calming backdrop that enhances the entire stairwell experience.

Installation Details: This project used the Florafelt Pro Felt Planting System, known for its durability and ease of maintenance. The wall measures 5 feet wide by 8 feet high, providing plenty of space for layering greenery. Installed in November 2019, it continues to thrive as an evergreen feature of the home, requiring minimal upkeep thanks to its sustainable design.

Why Vertical Gardens? Vertical gardens are more than just décor—they improve indoor air quality, reduce stress, and introduce living art into everyday spaces. For urban homes in areas like Palo Alto, where outdoor garden space is limited, a vertical wall installation is a practical and beautiful way to bring the benefits of nature indoors.

At Planted Places, we believe every wall has the potential to become a sanctuary. Our custom designs blend style, sustainability, and wellness to transform even the most overlooked corners of a home into thriving green spaces.

Project Information
Location: Residential – Palo Alto, CA
Design & Installation: Planted Places
Installation Date: November 2019
Planting System: Florafelt Pro Felt
Dimensions: 5'W x 8'H