Ephemeral vertical gardens at the AFIL stand – Fira de Barcelona

Design and Concept

The proposal was based on the creation of several plant walls made from expanded polystyrene seedling trays, sized 70 x 46 x 5 cm. These trays, lightweight and easy to handle, allowed for a quick configuration of continuous, modular green surfaces.

The plant species were selected to provide dense coverage and attractive color contrast. The chosen plants were:

• Lettuce of different varieties (green and reddish tones).

• Mizuna (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica) with fine and elegant foliage.

• Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris) with broad leaves and robust texture.

These species not only added variety in texture and color, but also showed high resistance to indoor conditions and required minimal maintenance.

Materials and Assembly Methodology

Materials Used

• Agricultural trays made of expanded polystyrene, size 70 x 46 x 5 cm.

• Metal support structures for vertical mounting.

• Dense foliage plants: lettuces, mizunas, and Swiss chard.

• Manual irrigation system for occasional use during the trade fair.

• Quick fastening elements to securely install the trays.

Execution Process

The project was organized in three phases:

1. Preliminary preparation: The trays were planted in the workshop with the selected species, ensuring optimal development until transport. Planting density, irrigation, and protection during handling were carefully managed.

2. On-site assembly: In a single day of intensive work, the trays were installed on the support structures previously set up at the stand. Precision work was carried out to avoid visual gaps and achieve a continuous green surface.

3. Final adjustments: Once assembled, minor interventions were made to ensure aesthetic uniformity and check the general condition of the plants.

The dismantling was also done in a single day, carefully separating the plants, trays, and structures to allow for their subsequent reuse or recycling.

Maintenance During the Event

Maintenance of the vertical gardens was minimal, appropriate for the temporary nature of the project:

• Daily manual watering to maintain foliage freshness.

• Occasional plant replacement in case of damage.

• Surface cleaning of dry or damaged leaves to maintain a pristine appearance throughout the event.

This reduced maintenance plan was key to ensuring the viability of a temporary installation in a high-demand logistical context.

Results and Evaluation

The project successfully met all established objectives:

• High visual impact: The green walls stood out clearly in the trade fair environment, conveying a fresh, natural, and dynamic image of ALFIL.

• Speed of execution: Both assembly and dismantling were carried out with maximum efficiency, meeting the strict deadlines imposed by the trade show organizers.

• Commitment to sustainability: The choice of agricultural species and the use of recyclable materials reinforced ALFIL’s ecological message.

Thanks to the success of this project, ALFIL consolidated its presence at the trade fair as a leading company in integrating environmental values and innovation within the logistics sector.

Collaborators and Execution

Aldrufeu Assossiats  i  Babilon Jardineria.