The MEP Coordination Checklist for Interior Living Walls
Living Walls Are Building Systems, Not Decorations
Living walls are increasingly specified in commercial, hospitality, healthcare, and mixed-use projects as nature inspired design continues to flourish. But when green wall systems are treated as a finish element rather than a building system, projects can go sideways. A successful living wall installation requires coordinated plumbing, structural, and electrical planning; ideally starting in the design development phase.
Structural Coordination
Minimum 12 lbs per square foot dead load capacity. Confirm with your living wall contractor and structural engineer
Host wall must be thoroughly waterproofed; irrigation cycles are regular and an unprotected wall is a liability
Whether flush-mounted, recessed, or framed with millwork, perimeter maintenance access must be preserved
Plumbing Coordination
Dedicated supply line(s) sized to the system's flow rate and pressure
Code-compliant backflow preventer required and specified per local code
Floor drain or dedicated drain connection tied to the drip tray — non-negotiable
Recirculating systems require space for a reservoir tank and potentially built out millwork to conceal
Non-corrosive piping is strongly recommended for long-term performance, otherwise it’s a maintenance issue
Electrical Coordination
Dedicated 120V circuits for the irrigation controller and monitoring equipment. Never share with other building loads
Grow lighting required in most interior installations, especially with limited natural light; fixture type, lumens, and color spectrum must meet the living wall contractor's minimums
Minimum mounting height and distance from the living wall is crucial
HVAC and Temperature
Avoid installing directly beneath active HVAC vent. Direct airflow causes uneven moisture loss and chronic plant stress
Tropical plant material requires consistent ambient temperatures between 60°F and 85°F
This is a building requirement, not just a plant care guideline. document it and communicate it to the owner
When to Bring in the Living Wall Contractor
Earlier than you think. The living wall designer should be involved in MEP coordination meetings during design development and deliver a complete requirements package before plumbing and electrical scopes are finalized. Projects that coordinate early avoid unnecessary change orders and finger-pointing that damage project relationships.
Work With a Living Wall Designer Who Coordinates Like a Systems Contractor
At Lily Scott, we provide complete requirements, participate in MEP coordination meetings, deliver custom shop drawings, and stay engaged from pre-construction through commissioning. If you have a living wall in your upcoming scope, contact us before you bid it.
