How a Los Angeles Truck Bay Became a Thriving Ecological Greenhouse
A converted truck-loading bay in Los Angeles now thrives as an experimental greenhouse. Geoponika, founded by Carlos Campos Morera and Max Martin, transforms industrial spaces into living ecological hubs. The studio’s work has even earned a spot in Architectural Digest’s AD100 for 2025.
The greenhouse sits in Glassell Park, where a 2,000-square-foot industrial site now houses over 10,000 rare and inherited plants. These specimens form a living archive, supporting both botanical preservation and public education. Inside, carefully arranged microclimates create a delicate balance, allowing diverse species to coexist.
Photographer Julien Sage has captured the studio’s evolution, highlighting its role in urban ecological storytelling. Alongside Geoponika, the founders also run Cactus Store, a plant collective known for its innovative approach to horticulture. Their work extends beyond design—Nonhuman Teachers, a linked nonprofit, promotes ecological narratives and human-nature coexistence in cities. Geoponika’s philosophy treats gardens as dynamic ecosystems rather than static displays. The studio operates on principles of stewardship, guiding each space to evolve naturally over time.
The greenhouse stands as a model for reimagining urban landscapes. Its plant collection and educational initiatives demonstrate how industrial relics can become ecological sanctuaries. The project continues to grow, blending design, conservation, and community engagement in Los Angeles.
