Plumfield Books of Ada opened its second location in downtown Grand Rapids, expanding the locally owned bookstore into a new concept that brings together books, coffee, and a greenhouse retreat. Orchard House Books & Café was envisioned as a sanctuary within the city; a place where reading, conversation, and quiet moments can naturally unfold.

‍

The greenhouse created an opportunity to weave nature directly into the experience, using living plants to soften the environment and create a sense of calm throughout Michigan’s changing seasons. The design focused on introducing plants in ways that shape the atmosphere without crowding the space; supporting gathering, reading, and everyday café life while allowing the greenhouse to remain open, light-filled, and easy to move through.

‍

The greenhouse needed impactful greenery without disrupting circulation, seating, or visibility within an active bookstore café environment. At the same time, the space required a natural buffer from the nearby busy road and parking lot areas.

• Assessed natural light, layout, and how visitors move between the bookstore and greenhouse
• Selected plant species suited for bright seasonal greenhouse conditions
• Used perimeter placement to maintain open walkways and table space
• Designed layered foliage to create subtle separation from the surrounding street
• Built a plant framework that can evolve as future phases are introduced

Plant placement was designed to guide how people experience the greenhouse rather than simply decorate it. Entry moments introduce greenery gradually, drawing visitors from the bookstore into the café space without obstructing circulation.

‍

Larger plants were positioned along the perimeter to create a sense of enclosure and softness while keeping the center of the greenhouse open for seating and gathering.

‍

Along Michigan Avenue, layered foliage establishes a planted edge that buffers the café from the surrounding street while maintaining transparency and light.

‍

‍

Cascading and climbing plants introduce movement and evolving interest, while larger canopy plants create rhythm and balance across the space. Together, these elements allow the greenhouse to feel less like an extension of the building and more like a small indoor garden within the city.