Lighthouse Youth Center
Background
In the spring of 2016, C+R Architecture reached out to Urban Blooms with an exciting opportunity to bring a living wall to the brand-new Shakely Lighthouse Youth Center, a facility dedicated to ending youth homelessness in Cincinnati. We designed a 20-foot-long by 4-foot-tall living wall that gracefully wraps around a corner, complemented by a motivational façade crafted from reclaimed wood. This vibrant installation features over 250 living plants across 12 tropical species, bringing life and inspiration to the space.
Challenges
This project presented a unique opportunity to bring the calming presence of nature into a space designed to be a sanctuary for Cincinnati’s most vulnerable youth. Humans have evolved for thousands of years deeply connected to the natural world. Over the past 300 years, our rapidly growing cities have provided longer, more comfortable lives for many, but in doing so, have distanced us from nature—especially in densely populated urban centers. Today, many people experience nature only through a few potted plants on porches, despite our bodies and minds being wired over millions of years to thrive in natural surroundings. This living wall helps bridge that gap, offering a daily reminder of nature’s essential role in our well-being.
Outcome
While we may never fully replicate the immersive natural experience our ancestors enjoyed, our living walls bring nature into urban spaces in a fresh and impactful way. This installation, like our others, immediately captures attention upon entering the space. Research shows that simply being around greenery can boost mood, energy, and focus for hours. We hope these benefits support both the staff working at the center and the youth staying there, enhancing the likelihood of success for the organization’s vital mission.