Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 4:00 PM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Design vertical gardens and green facades

Design vertical gardens and green facades

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCGRI502
State Code
OCU10
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
24/12/2020
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
21/05/2021
Field of Education
050301 - Horticulture
Original Release Date
21/05/2021
Nominal Hours
120
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to design vertical gardens and green facades, in consultation with system/component suppliers, building and green infrastructure design professionals and other horticultural specialists. It includes incorporating the principles, benefits and risks associated with vertical gardens and green facades into designs that meet client requirements and comply with applicable building and relevant authorities' regulations and guidelines. The unit applies to individuals with existing horticultural, landscaping, landscape design and/or construction experience, who consult with green infrastructure and/or building and design specialists to apply knowledge and researched information to designing vertical gardens and green facades for existing and/or new buildings. This unit of competency is suitable for individuals dealing with predictable and unpredictable problems and deciding on solutions to a range of complex problems during the design process through research, analysis and consultation.Vertical garden and green facade design must meet all requirements of national, state, territory and local government authorities and construction regulations, standards and codes.Licensing, legislative or certification requirements may apply to the work undertaken in this unit in some jurisdictions. Users are advised to check with the relevant regulatory authorities.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Research green infrastructure design information
  • 1.1 Establish purpose, functions, benefits and risks associated with vertical gardens and green facades
  • 1.2 Access and interpret building regulations, standards and codes, and relevant national, state, territory and local authority policies, procedures and permits to determine applicable restrictions or limitations relating to vertical gardens and green facades
  • 1.3 Identify environmental and energy efficiency impacts of green infrastructure design
  • 1.4 Identify factors that will impact vertical garden and green facade designs
2. Scope project requirements
  • 2.1 Consult with client to clarify type, purpose and preference of vertical garden and/or green facade design features and requirements
  • 2.2 Identify project location and complete site analysis
  • 2.3 Confirm structural principles relating to vertical garden and green facade with architect, engineer and/or other relevant specialists
3. Design vertical garden
  • 3.1 Acquire construction plans to identify type of vertical garden best suited for building type and required outcomes
  • 3.2 Determine location, aspect and dimensions of vertical garden
  • 3.3 Consult growing media and/or horticulture specialist to determine media characteristics and functionality, and select plants based on location conditions and maintenance requirements
  • 3.4 Document specifications for waterproofing, irrigation and drainage systems and/or lighting, including recommended suppliers
  • 3.5 Calculate total weight of vertical garden materials and fixing fastening system in consultation with suppliers, green infrastructure and/or building professionals to ensure total weight complies with parameters set by engineer
  • 3.6 Prepare design concept of proposed vertical garden, confirm with specialists and/or building professionals, and present to client
  • 3.7 Prepare design plans, specifications, maintenance plan and estimated costs for vertical garden, in consultation with a qualified specialist, if required
4. Design green facade
  • 4.1 Identify and select suitable types of plants, and determine dimensions of growing media for installed container or garden bed planting
  • 4.2 Confirm integrity and suitability of support structure with engineer or specialist
  • 4.3 Specify fixing requirements that comply with building codes and standards
  • 4.4 Design facade, considering wind and climate conditions, irrigation and drainage requirements and factors relating to ongoing maintenance
  • 4.5 Prepare design concept of proposed green facade, confirm with specialists and/or building professionals, and present to client
  • 4.6 Prepare design plans, specifications, maintenance program and estimated costs for green facade, in consultation with a qualified specialist if required
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