interieurbeplanting de klerk bv & het Groenlab – the netherlands
Category: Large Indoor Greenery
A symbiosis of architecture, nature, people, and technology. A project where history and future come together, where growth—both natural and human—is central.
In this unique project, nature is given the space it needs, so people can thrive. In the monumental former Melkfabriek (Milk Factory) in Eindhoven, Het Groenlab developed a total concept and planting design for the green layer that appears to have organically emerged over time within the old factory.
Interior plant specialist and green partner De Klerk brought this planting vision to life. Rooted in the belief that greenery connects us and reveals nature’s quiet power and resilience, Het Groenlab created a planting design for the entire building—redeveloped by architect Niels Olivier—as well as for the offices of BPD, designed by Ex Interiors. Nature is central throughout: its strength, softness, adaptability, and its quiet yet persistent presence. The planting of the building takes inspiration from the overgrowth often found in abandoned industrial sites. Climbing and hanging plants grow freely, finding light and support in ledges, leftover screws, and old railings—just as they would naturally.
One year on, the plant growth has matured into what can now be called a true ‘overgrown’. This kind of dynamic greenery thrives only with well-planned, ongoing care and maintenance. The climbing species include Tetrastigma voinierianum, Philodendron scandens, and Scindapsus pictus, chosen and planted in a rhythm of texture and green tones. They grow from tiled planters into custom stainless steel trellises, mirroring the pattern of the original factory tiles, preserved as a subtle nod to the building’s past. These plants climb along long, steel-wire u-shapes, reaching impressive heights.
On the first floor, the former milk gutter has repurposed with a series of milky-white planters filled with a mix of plants that reflect the landscape outside. A conscious decision was made to avoid palm-like or overly exotic species, as these would clash with the surroundings and the building’s character.
On the second floor—visible from the BPD office—Philodendron scandens are paired with Asplenium nidus, planted in an old gutter alongside and in repeating trellises. This second floor flows seamlessly into the BPD office, where nature and imagination meet. On one side, a series of work booth create a layered office landscape. Along and across these structures, planting in earth-toned containers connect nature to the people inside. The plant scheme was carefully selected for its texture, colour and hight creating a layered and dynamic green environment that complements the architecture. Select areas benefit from SunLike lighting, developed by Het Groenlab, which mimics natural sunlight and supports healthy plant growth.
Across a bridge reminiscent of the factory’s industrial past lies an open city balcony with clay pots with trees. Here, trees in large planters that rise from the courtyard below connect the balcony to the building’s green flow.
This project shows how meaningful collaboration between partners and clients can take root and thrive.
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