We’re thrilled to have played a key role in transforming the Daphne Steele Building at the University of Huddersfield, installing over 200 square metres of fire-rated moss walls that stretch from floor to ceiling in the atrium. 

This ambitious project demanded strict adherence to fire safety regulations, proving our moss walls deliver both beauty and safety. Our fire-rated preserved moss exceeded expectations, achieving the B-s1-d0 rating—a decisive factor in Leaflike’s selection. This reinforces our commitment to sustainable, high-performance design.

Leaflike’s Fire Safety Commitment: B-s1-d0 Certified

Our preserved moss walls achieve the highest fire safety rating (B-s1-d0), ensuring they are beautiful and safe for public spaces. This certification means:

• Fire-Resistant (B): Designed to slow fire spread, preventing it from fuelling flames—a safer choice for high-traffic spaces like the University of Huddersfield’s atrium.
• Low Smoke Production (s1): Produces minimal smoke if exposed to fire, reducing the risk of harmful fumes in emergencies.
• No Flaming Droplets (d0): Won’t release burning droplets or falling particles, preventing fire spread and reducing additional hazards.

From Concept to Completion: The Making of a Fire-Rated Moss Wall   

Crafting fire-rated, visually striking moss walls requires precision, craftsmanship, and a carefully structured process. Every stage ensures safety, durability, and a flawless finish.

Here’s how we brought over 200 square metres of moss walls to life in the Daphne Steele Building atrium:

• BACKING PREPARATION: Our backing boards are cut to size and self-extinguishing, meaning they stop burning if ignited, ensuring maximum fire safety. They are lightweight yet fire-resistant, meeting stringent fire regulations while maintaining durability with a standard 3mm relative density. 
• DESIGN LAYOUT: To achieve a seamless, balanced look, we meticulously planned and hand-crafted different-sized moss panels in our design studio, ensuring a perfect fit for the atrium’s structure.
• ADHESIVE APPLICATION: A solvent-free acrylic adhesive is applied evenly, providing a strong initial bond and an extended open time for precise application. This non-toxic, non-flammable formula has low VOC emissions and dries to form a tough, elastic film, ensuring long-term durability without staining.
• MOSS PLACEMENT: The moss – woodland (flat moss), reindeer, and bun moss – is carefully positioned and pressed securely into place for a natural, textured aesthetic.
• DRYING TIME: Left undisturbed for 24+ hours to ensure a secure bond before being set vertically.
• FINAL STAGE: On-Site Installation – Panels are securely fixed, and the transformation is complete.

The Advantages of Preserved Moss Walls  

Preserved moss walls offer a stunning, sustainable, low-maintenance way to bring nature indoors. Composed of 100% natural moss, they are expertly preserved to retain their vibrancy for years – without requiring sunlight or watering.

Beyond aesthetics, preserved moss is an eco-friendly alternative with a lower carbon footprint than live or artificial plants. In the University of Huddersfield’s high-traffic atrium, our moss walls enhance acoustics by absorbing sound and reducing echo, creating a quieter, more comfortable environment.

 Key Benefits: 

• Fire Safety: B-s1-d0 Certified, meeting the highest safety standards.
• Effortless Beauty: No Light or watering is required; it maintains its fresh appearance in temperatures between 15–35°C with low humidity.
• Sustainably Farmed – Responsibly harvested under license and preserved using glycerine, food dyes, and minerals.
• Minimal Maintenance – Requires only occasional dusting, with easy replacement of damaged sections.

This pioneering WELL Platinum-standard building prioritises health and well-being, recognising the vital role of nature in reducing stress and boosting productivity. The project perfectly exemplifies Leaflike’s expertise in transforming large spaces while delivering a powerful, sustainable impact.