Urban Biodiversity and biophilic architecture : Mingzhu Nerval’s Plant Hunting in Hong Kong

2023-02-25

We recently embarked on an extraordinary plant hunting trip to Hong Kong, inspired by the idea of “wild concrete”—where plants thrive organically within the cityscape.

In the neighborhoods where our new development projects will take shape, we studied the existing urban plant life, determined to preserve and integrate native species into our upcoming designs. Immersed in the city’s dense fabric, we saw the quiet resilience of nature—ferns, vines, and mosses growing boldly in between concrete cracks.

This initiative aligns with our core philosophy: blending biophilic design and botanical expertise to create luxury vertical gardens that are as ecologically sustainable as they are visually striking.

At Mingzhu Nerval, we don’t simply choose plants—we scout, study, and honor them. Our team’s ability to connect native biodiversity with high-end urban development allows us to deliver end-to-end landscape execution, from plant selection to project realization.

This experience in Hong Kong reaffirms our belief that the future of sustainable urban landscapes lies in designing with, not against, nature.

Discover how we incorporate native biodiversity into sustainable landscapes. Explore our Projects Page to see our biophilic designs in action.

Mingzhu Nerval with Henderson Land Development in Hong Kong, 2023

Our team together with the Henderson Development team, studying the future project’s site

Mingzhu Nerval with Henderson Land Development in Hong Kong, 2023

Our plant hunting trip was inspired by the theme ‘Wild Concrete”

Mingzhu Nerval with Henderson Land Development in Hong Kong, 2023

Mingzhu Nerval with Henderson Land Development in Hong Kong, 2023

Mingzhu Nerval with Henderson Land Development in Hong Kong, 2023

We found a Ficus religiosa – also known as the Sacred Fig or Bodhi Tree

Mingzhu Nerval with Henderson Land Development in Hong Kong, 2023