DDG Partners stands out in the realm of New York City real estate development for its design-driven approach.

For their building at 12 Warren Street, the firm served as developer, designer, and builder. By handling these multiple roles in-house, they were able to bring a distinctive, consistent architectural vocabulary to the project. So when it came time to introduce greenery into the space, DDG sought a partner who would approach the plantings with the same level of intention.

Tula House was excited to take on the task of curating integrated, thoughtful plant design to highlight the building’s striking architecture.

Our Starting Point

The Tula House creative team didn’t have to look far to find inspiration for their plant selection. DDG Partners is known for developments that emphasize unusual materials and craftsmanship, and their choices for 12 Warren were in keeping with that ethos. 

The remarkable bluestone façade selected for the building is notable not just for its rough-hewn finish, but for the manner in which it was laid. Placed by hand, the stone has an organic appearance, capped off by staggered, cantilevered terraces that mimic the natural stacking of bluestone.

From a distance, the project appears to be carved rather than built, which provided Tula with the ideal jumping-off point: to echo the building’s imposing natural form while softening it with integrated greenery.

Our Plant Selection

Because of the strong textural elements of the 12 Warren façade, the Tula House designers leaned heavily into plant choices that would complement rather than compete with the bluestone.

Turning to local greenhouses, we sourced ornamental grasses and sculptural, woody shrubs specifically for this project. We favored attractive yet hardy species, such as the Taxus x media 'Hicksii', as the plantings would have to withstand the exposed conditions of a Manhattan building.

The Meeting of Landscape and Architecture

Viewing the completed 12 Warren project, it’s clear that our landscape choices do just that: they complete the space. Greenery emerges from the stunning cantilevered terraces and façade, making the plantings feel intrinsic rather than added on.

Thoughtful Design for Every Space From Tula House

For more than a decade, the exceptional designers and horticulturists at Tula House have brought their considered approach to commercial and residential design projects throughout NYC and beyond.

From indoor gardens to outdoor landscapes, our team has crafted beautiful green environments for homes, workplaces, hospitality settings, and creative spaces. Every project is shaped around its setting and the people who interact with it.

Tula House services are comprehensive, from drafting an initial plan to installing the plantings to ongoing garden maintenance that ensures your greenery thrives. Explore our portfolio for a closer look at our creations, then connect with Tula House to discover how we can enhance your space.

Select Client Projects

The expert team of designers and horticulturalists at Tula Gardens tailors, installs, and maintains indoor and outdoor gardens for a wide range of residential and commercial clients. Serving Brooklyn and beyond, our professionals are excited to begin planning your next plantscaping project.

tula-gardens-freeman-6.jpg