Commerzbank Tower Sky-Gardens, Frankfurt

Since its opening in 1997, the Commerzbank Tower in Frankfurt has been widely known for its nine Sky Gardens, distributed across more than 40 storeys – themed interior gardens that served both as places of retreat and as a means of improving the indoor climate. Over the years, however, the condition of the original planting deteriorated, as many of the species used were not suited to the interior environment. In 2016, aplantis was commissioned to prepare an expert report assessing the necessary measures and to develop a concept for their redevelopment.

As part of this commission, the selection of suitable plants, detailed planning, tendering and site supervision were carried out. In May 2017, the Sky Gardens were refurbished and largely replanted. A planting concept was developed that honours Norman Foster’s original design while integrating contemporary planting strategies. The project demanded deep horticultural expertise, precise planning within the existing structure and strong technical understanding.

The three winter gardens, themed around the Mediterranean, East Asia and North America, were newly planted with climate-adapted shrubs and trees, perennials and specimen plants. Technical details such as underground tree anchoring and integrated drainage systems ensure performance and longevity. Implementation took place under complex light and climate conditions. The plants were carefully selected to ensure they can thrive long term in the air-conditioned interior spaces. In this way, a lasting quality of greening is guaranteed within the themed gardens, preserving the high-rise building’s architectural and ecological signature.

At the inaugural BuGG Awards in 2018, aplantis achieved second place in the “Indoor Greening of the Year” category with the Sky Gardens in the Commerzbank Tower, Frankfurt.