Large outdoor planters can transform public spaces in many different ways. In Köflach, Austria, they stand out not only because of their scale, but above all thanks to the variety of planting arrangements – from lush seasonal flowers to shrubs, small trees and more unusual cascading compositions.
During our visit to Austria, we took a closer look at the greenery found throughout the city. Köflach is an interesting example of how large-scale forms and plants can be combined in different ways, with colours, proportions and planting styles adapted to the character of each public space.
Large outdoor planters and different planting styles
Throughout Köflach, planters from the Gianto family – Sito, Tablo and Grande – are used for both abundant seasonal displays and compositions featuring small trees and shrubs. Combining plants of different heights, shapes and colours gives each arrangement its own individual character.
One of the most interesting examples is the composition created with Plane Ring Lux. Its wide, circular form provides the foundation for a multi-layered planting arrangement. A carefully shaped tree forms the focal point, while the surrounding plants cascade outwards – from lush greenery to white, purple and red flowers spilling over the edge. The result is a composition with depth and volume that can be enjoyed from every angle.
Köflach shows just how much can be achieved by combining different plant species and heights. A large planter can become the foundation for an entire miniature landscape, where seasonal flowers complement trees and shrubs to create a much richer green feature within the urban environment.
Greenery designed to suit its surroundings
Another interesting aspect is how naturally the planters fit into different parts of Köflach. Alongside contemporary architecture, shades of grey and graphite create a subtle backdrop that allows the greenery to take centre stage. Elsewhere, bold yellow, green and orange planters become distinctive features in their own right.
The planting styles vary just as much. Some compositions are dominated by abundant seasonal flowers, while others use a small tree or carefully shaped shrub as their focal point. There is even room for a more playful approach, with a floral figure adding an unexpected decorative element to the cityscape.
As a result, Köflach’s urban greenery never feels repetitive. Individual arrangements vary in scale, colour and plant selection while still creating a recognisable visual language throughout the city. It is a great example of how consistency in urban greenery does not have to mean repeating the same composition in every location.
❓ FAQ
Can trees and shrubs be planted in large outdoor planters?
Yes. With the right size and planting conditions, large planters can accommodate much more than seasonal flowers. Shrubs and small trees can become the central feature of a composition, as the examples from Köflach demonstrate.
How can you create an interesting composition in a large planter?
Combining plants with different heights, forms, colours and growth habits is a good starting point. A composition can have a strong central feature, while lower-growing and trailing plants create additional layers around it. The cascading arrangement created with Plane Ring Lux in Köflach is a great example.
Should the colour of a planter match its surroundings?
Not necessarily. Neutral shades work particularly well alongside contemporary architecture and allow the plants to stand out, while bold colours can become distinctive features within the public space. Köflach successfully uses both approaches.
Terra Group – solutions for greener public spaces
At Terra Group, we have been helping to create greener and more welcoming public spaces for years. Our range includes solutions such as Gianto Sito, Gianto Tablo, Gianto Granda and Plane Ring Lux, offering plenty of possibilities for both seasonal flower displays and more elaborate compositions featuring shrubs and small trees.
We also look beyond Poland for inspiration. Köflach shows just how versatile large outdoor planters can be and how much can be achieved by combining the right form, colour and carefully selected plants.
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