A colorful vertical garden once greeted visitors to the Bay Meadows Welcome Center, transforming a simple trailer into the vibrant hub of a growing community. Originally conceived as a temporary sales office for the development, the space quickly became a gathering spot for events and neighborhood connections.

The wall offered a lush counterpoint to the wide-open, sun-drenched site. Layers of greenery mingled with purple, pink, and white blooms, while the grass-like Acorus gramineus ‘Ogon’ added movement and texture—a playful homage to the meadows that inspired the project’s name. Despite the heat, the planting created a refreshing sense of abundance, inviting passersby to pause and enjoy. Staff even harvested fresh mint from the wall, brewing tea to share with visitors.

When the center’s role came to an end, the wall’s story continued. Plants were carefully salvaged, potted up, and gifted to new Bay Meadows residents, allowing the living artwork to take root throughout the neighborhood. What began as a temporary installation left behind a lasting legacy of connection between people and plants.