Green facades as urban renewal

Vertical green system brings nature back to a busy street in the heart of Amsterdam

In the center of Amsterdam, between Papenbrugsteeg and Warmoesstraat, Carl Stahl Benelux has realized a facade transformation that stands out for its simplicity, functionality and impact. The classic urban facades are equipped with a custom-designed climbing aid system. The result: a vertical garden that is aesthetically appealing and contributes to a healthier and more sustainable city.

The project was carried out by Carl Stahl Benelux, a specialist in stainless steel cable systems and structural networks for architectural applications. The project grew out of a shared vision to integrate more nature into Amsterdam's dense urban fabric. Marketing manager Jasmin Deliah Okupniak says, "The motivations behind it are rooted in the broader goals of urban greening: improving air quality, promoting biodiversity and softening the hard edges of the cityscape with a fresh, natural aesthetic."

At the heart of this transformation is a climbing support system consisting of stainless steel tension cables and spacers. "These elements are designed to provide flexibility in mounting - horizontal, vertical or diagonal - allowing the greenery to flourish while complementing the architecture. The system was developed in collaboration with architects and designers to ensure that it not only meets technical requirements, but also contributes to the visual harmony of the environment." The system allows climbing plants to develop in a controlled manner without causing damage to facades. 

Installation with consideration for the environment

Implementation took place under challenging conditions. In a busy shopping street with little working space and constant pedestrian flow, the work had to be done efficiently and safely. Technician Leandro of Carl Stahl Benelux ensured a tight and precise installation, which was completed in just two days. Thanks to good coordination with the municipality and local authorities, the installation went smoothly.

"The contrast between stainless steel lines and lush climbing plants adds a dynamic, sustainable layer to the existing architecture," Okupniak said. "The response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive. Passersby often stop to admire the installation." The green facade doesn't just beautify the streetscape, however, according to Carl Stahl. Climbing plants improve air quality, provide cooling through evaporation, dampen noise and attract insects and birds. This makes the project an example of how greening can address multiple urban problems simultaneously: from heat stress to loss of biodiversity.

A growing portfolio of sustainable projects

For Carl Stahl Benelux, this project is part of a broader vision of sustainable urban development. The company is active throughout Europe and has already realized similar systems at schools, offices, parking garages and distribution centers. Each design is tailored to the specific situation, with an eye for functionality, aesthetics and ease of maintenance.

The facade in Amsterdam is thus more than a technical project-it is a statement about how urban architecture and nature can go hand in hand. And about how smart systems can contribute to a livable city, without major renovations or long-term inconvenience.