We bring you “Heart of the Forest”—a custom immersive moss wall unlike any other that transports you right into the forest, giving the installation its namesake. We couldn’t be more excited to share this project—our latest collaboration with Heidi at Forage + Design—bringing this magnificent art to life in the 2nd-floor lounge and corridor of Millennium Tower by Aspen Properties in downtown Calgary!
Tackling a project as intricate and unique as this one means starting with a blank slate—luckily for us at Exhibit Studio, we are no strangers to turning even the wildest ideas into reality!
Project Display Requirements
Custom wall display
Project Concept
From concept to completion, this project showcases how art and nature can transform a space, turning offices into places people want to be. Thoughtful design—incorporating elements like art and greenery—fosters creativity and boosts productivity. A well-structured, visually appealing space promotes clarity and focus, helping you do your best work.
Why Moss walls?
Moss walls are more than just a design trend—they’re a game-changer for modern offices. Preserved moss requires no watering, soil, or direct sunlight, making it a hassle-free way to bring nature indoors. Plus, they offer great benefits:
- Air Purification: Moss absorbs pollutants and dust.
- Humidity Regulation: Helps prevent dryness and irritation, especially in air-conditioned environments.
- Noise Reduction: Moss has natural sound-absorbing properties, making it ideal for open offices and creative spaces.
- Promoting Wellness: Biophilic design—bringing nature indoors- is a mood-booster that offers tranquility.
- Low Maintenance: Preserved moss is treated with a food-grade glycerin solution that replaces natural moisture, keeping it soft, vibrant, and maintenance-free for years to come.
And the best part? Moss walls are not only functional—they’re visually stunning, creating an incredible sensory experience.
Custom Craftsmanship & Installation
Design
Heidi’s vision was formed into design plans with our Art Director creating the initial drawings, to establish the layout and feel of the project. Together, they conceptualized the placement of mirrors and circular pieces, ensuring they were seamlessly integrated into the artwork.
One of the main challenges was working within the physical size limitations of the panels. The design was modified by our industrial design team to fit within 4×8 panels that could support the artistic features and be mounted securely to the wall—all without compromising the original vision. Another key consideration was the application of the wood veneer, the moss inserts, and the attachment method. To ensure everything would work as intended, sample tests were fabricated. Once the tests proved successful, the project was given the green light to move on to the next stage.
Custom Wood panels
With the design and industrial planning finalized, the project moved to the CNC department. Our skilled CNC operator precisely cut the panels, including the inlets for the moss and the curved edges that give the design its signature shape. These panels beautifully frame the moss, adding warmth and texture to the installation. The wood panels were installed in segments, with two installers carefully maneuvering each piece into place like a puzzle.
The Moss
Heidi pre-assembled the moss panels in advance using the dimensions of the insets given to her by our Industrial Designer. After installing the moss panels securely to the wood panels, she carefully filled in gaps with additional moss and ferns to complete the look. This process requires a strong vision and a “trust-the-process” mindset—just like Heidi’s—because it all comes together in the final touches!
Integrated Mirrors & Brass
Designed to enhance depth and light, the circular elements help make the space feel larger and more luxurious. Each circle was precisely cut, ensuring clean and accurate edges. Brass accents were then carefully placed into the pre-cut inlets of the wood panels, integrating with the overall design.
The result? A cozy urban retreat that invites people to unwind, recharge, and feel the essence of the forest all around them.
A huge shoutout to Aspen Properties for supporting this vision and allowing us to bring it to life in such an incredible space. We’re also incredibly grateful to our talented collaborator, Heidi, whose expertise and creativity are unmatched!
Photos are screenshots taken from a video about the project by Oscar Lima.
Instagram: Oscar Lima Website: CASTANO FILMS
Take a look at this Instagram video for a detailed walkthrough of the process and steps involved in creating the moss walls!
ENVIRONMENTAL Display Fabrication
Let our talented team bring your marketing vision to life. From conceptualization and industrial design to fabrication and installation, we manage every step of the process to ensure your project is a success.