Last week, Jimmy and I had the incredible opportunity to attend the European Interior Landscaping Organisation (EILO) excursion in Berlin.

Over three days, we were inspired by the creativity and ingenuity of amazing interior landscaping projects, heard from industry experts and suppliers on topics including the benefits of plants, growing mediums and AI, whilst sharing expertise with over 100 fellow EILO members.

Living interior landscaping

The trip presented the chance to experience spectacular natural living landscapes projects first-hand. To touch the greenery, smell the foliage and marvel at the combination of interior plants and engineering in impressive buildings, some of which are normally off limits.

The Living Tree

Completed in 2025, The Living Tree in the Radisson Collection Hotel on Karl-Liebknecht-Str.3, is one such project, reflecting the originality of an idea to turn a concrete structure into a vibrant, natural feature. Standing 24m high the tree sculpture features 36 hanging pockets of plants and a 12m wide circular platform with container-based plants. 22 different species of tropical plants live in the tree and with two, technicians (climbing certificated) maintaining the stunning display every week. Under the shade of the magnificent tree, a constant stream of guests checks in and out, hold business meetings and sip cocktails in the calming presence of nature. Unless tranquillity is disrupted by an EILO delegation circling the structure, heads tilted and mouths agape, repeatedly snaping pictures from different angles.

Atmospheric enhancement

The sheer scale of a 15m x 18m green wall in a further project, containing 157 different types of tropical plants was another mesmerising stop on our tour. Housed in the Dussmann Group building on Friedrichstrße 90, a department store and café, visitors can relax and read in the shadow of greenery with the sound of running water in the background from the pond at its base. Designed by botanist Patrick Blanc, the giant wall is a wonderful example of artistically working with various plant species to create a design featuring astonishing texture and colour.

Lush and leafy

And while vertical greenery triumphs, a project at We Work in the Tiergarten district of the city showcases tropical plants (mostly Tetrastigma), tall and leafy and somewhat reminiscent of 1980s displays are planted in hydroponics in individual fixtures to dramatic effect. The stunning 21^st century glass building creates a perfect environment for these fast-growing vines, so much so, the maintenance team constantly have to tame the foliage to prevent it from reaching the ceiling.

EILO community

Relative to some industries, the interior landscaping sector may be small, but I was blown away to meet so many innovative and passionate interior landscapers, suppliers, business owners and families (the percentage of multi-generational businesses was quite staggering), desperate to share ideas, best practice and excited for the future of our industry.

The depth of horticultural knowledge under one roof was incredibly inspiring and I found myself excited to learn and share ideas, knowledge and learning.

From welcome drinks, through coffee breaks, bus trips and dinners a constant buzz emanated amongst us. Old acquaintances reunited, new connections formed, multiple languages spoken, but all with a common purpose – to incorporate living plants indoors to create healthy and sustainable environments …with a wow factor.

A big thank you to EILO for organising such a friendly and rewarding event, to the suppliers supporting the industry and our fellow EILO members for sharing their knowledge, ideas and companionship so warmly from the outset.