The doors of this premier venue and unique winemaking facility opened in 2022. Chicago’s River North area has benefited greatly, enjoying over 5,500 square feet of event space for a variety of occasions that are a hit in-person, and the visuals get heavily circulated on Instagram. The gorgeous layout offers intimate settings for private tastings as well as the second-floor space, which can accommodate up to 750 guests. The atmosphere in each space is cozy, vibrant, and relaxing, not least of which is the popular rooftop terrace. This property is also a functional production business that processes about 95 tons of grapes annually.
Challenges
The most difficult challenge at unique venues like this is avoiding plant damage due to frequent events. Plants can be negatively impacted when heaters are unplugged by guests with varying temperature needs. This change in temperature can cause health declines in indoor plants, especially Areca palms, since they are a bit more sensitive to microclimate changes.
“Areca palms have been shown to reduce indoor air pollution.” ~NC State Extension
Another challenge not found at a typical winery is the difficulty maintaining the Instagrammable focal point. The property’s wine-barrel wall filled with greenery requires creative watering solutions, as ladder access is restricted during business hours. Normal containers were not a good fit on this unique green wall either.
There are also risks of plant container damage. Events mean spaces are rearranged depending on the number of guests, which results in some container plants being moved by staff, risking breakage or soil spills. As for the container plants at the street entrance, they face hazards of pedestrians pouring drinks out into the containers.
Results
This special property presented uncommon challenges to Yellowstone Landscape’s interiorscaping team. See how the team overcame each hurdle with the following solutions.
- Power cords and switches for heaters were camouflaged in an effort to reduce temptations for guests to switch them off.
- Sensitive Areca palms were grouped to create a more stable microclimate.
- All interiorscape maintenance is scheduled during hours when no guests are present.
- Sudden changes in the venue event calendar are tracked by our Yellowstone account manager for quick service adjustments.
- The team replaced standard pots with flexible ones designed to fit the irregular dimensions of the wine barrel wall.
- Proper mulch levels are monitored closely in containers to ensure any spillage will only be mulch, which can be easier to replace than soil.
- “Buffer" plants were added in street planters to filter contaminants and help prevent pedestrian "drink dumping" from reaching the main plant’s root zone.
- Two seasonal flower rotations are used versus four to provide more climate stability for plantings in Chicago’s often harsh climate.
- Large-scale greenery softens the heavy industrial timber beams and stone flooring of this venue.
- The matte black vessels provide a modern contrast to the warm wood and brick.
- Many container plants are tucked against pillars to keep pedestrian pathways clear.
- Our designers use the latest research to achieve the best biophilic atmosphere for the winery’s guests and staff.
Happy Guests
“The venue made a beautiful setting for our ceremony.”
“Amazing food and absolutely gorgeous.”
Interiorscaped Beauty
Who could help but enjoy themselves at a winery that pays so much attention to detail with its world-class cuisine and atmosphere? The extra mile is seen with the innovative variety of experiences available. Private dining and weddings are only the beginning, as guests can experience cellar tours, corporate events, team building activities, and more.
At Yellowstone Landscape, our interiorscape team knows how much these gatherings mean to family, friends, and coworkers. After all, our employees enjoy nights out with their friends and family during special occasions too. Plus, we celebrate holidays and employee milestones together at our branches. So it’s natural for our team members to put their heart and soul into making these indoor plants look their best to match the premier venue visuals.
Is a busy winery with extreme outdoor weather and multiple indoor microclimates the easiest place for container plants like Dracaena fragrans, Areca palms, and Bird of Paradise to thrive? Honestly, no. That’s why it takes experienced interiorscaping professionals who can manage the changing environment the plants face in environments such as this. Our teams are certified horticulturalists, and their interiorscape training goes well beyond basic indoor plant care.
Interested in ideas for making your commercial property more inviting with interiorscape design ideas? Contact Yellowstone Landscape to discuss your ideas.
