prototype and mobile app
What is PlantV?
PlantV is a modular vertical growing system that enables apartment dwellers to enjoy the benefits of gardening from their home.
The accompanying app provides assistance, from the initial assembly all the way through to plant maintenance and troubleshooting.
Project Specs
A student project, created as part of my studies at HAC.
THE BACKSTORY
It started with a clothesline.
During my studies I used to park my car in a densely populated neighborhood, narrow streets lined with apartment buildings. Laundry fluttered at the windows, almost every apartment had an outdoor clothesline.
It made me wonder, what if the same could be done with plants by utilizing all this available vertical space? What if creating a thriving garden was something everyone could do?
THE PROBLEM
Gardening makes us happy.
But for many of us the difference between our dream of a beautiful garden versus reality is great. So much can and does go wrong.
In addition there's the issue of space.
39% of the population worldwide live in cities. In Israel alone at least 76% of the population live in apartments. The vast majority of these apartments have no outdoor space or small balconies where space is a premium.
USER PERSONAS
Anne
Anne downsized to an apartment in the city after her retirement and while she delights in her new life there, she misses gardening. Her apartment has a balcony, but it's very small and faces North which doesn't get nearly enough sun exposure to grow the vegetables she adores.
Pain points:
Limited outdoor space, lack of sun exposure, unable to pursue favorite hobby.
Nick + Sam
Nick and Sam are a professional couple in their late 20's who have just moved in together. They'd love to grow some plants, but neither one has a great track record of keeping them alive. Sam has accidently killed the plant they received as a housewarming gift thanks to some overenthusiastic watering. Their apartment has no balcony.
Pain points:
Lack of outdoor space, not much experience in gardening, both have busy, full schedules
THE GROWING SYSTEM
PlantV’s framework is mounted on an external wall and sits on a track which allows for easy access from the window.
‘V’ shaped planters slot into place on the structure ensuring a secure fit.
THE APP
Sign up
Personal account is tailored to the users plants, location and gardening expertise.
Dashboard
The dashboard give users an overview of the plants, their status and actions required. The layout replicates the physical location on the PlantV frame.
Splash screen
The accompanying app assists users through the setup and building process to the growing and caring of the garden.