Nature is not a nice to have.

Vertical farming for community and urban spaces. Join us in bridging the gap in the current food system, reconnecting people with nature through the principles of biophilia.

We integrate sustainable vertical farming into urban and community environments

Sustainability

The future of food is urban. Let's grow what we eat, where we live and work.

Engagement

In a world that is more connected than ever, we find ourselves increasingly disconnected from those around us.

Social Responsibility

Everyone who eats should take part in food production.

Will Matthews Visionary Planter

William Matthews

Founder and visionary planter

The Harvestory began in 2023, when the idea first took shape while Will was studying for his agriculture degree. Initially, the vision was to open a vertical farming shop that sold equipment and provided hands-on workshops to teach people how to grow their own produce. However, the concept evolved as Will refined the idea and conducted research on vertical farming as an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiative. His findings highlighted that the most profound impact lay within the social dimension, shaping the direction of Harvestory toward a model for social good that promotes community and sustainability.

Through education and knowledge sharing, Harvestory aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban environments, which are often seen as distinct worlds with limited mutual understanding. Our goal is to deepen awareness of where our food comes from, the environmental impact of our current agri-food system, and how to make healthier dietary choices that enhance well-being and foster personal growth.

Turning everyday spaces into sustainable food hubs

At Harvestory, we integrate sustainable vertical farming into urban and community environments. Our services bring fresh, locally-grown produce directly to where people work and live.

Our modular vertical farm installations are designed to...

  • Enhance aesthetics of offices and community hubs
  • Provide functional greenery to yield nutrient rich produce year-round.
  • Promote wellness and environmental consciousness

Our approach goes beyond just growing food. We foster community and connection through hands-on workshops, harvest days, green thumb initiatives and educational events. With a foundation built on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, we are committed to reshaping food systems sustainably and equitably, making fresh food accessible and engaging for everyone.

"The global population will grow by 2 billion people over the next 30 years, reaching 10 billion by 2050. It is anticipated that 68% of this population will live in urban areas, up from 55% today"

The what, why, and how of vertical farming.

Vertical farming involves cultivating plants on vertically inclined surfaces, such as skyscrapers in urban areas, where available land and space are limited. The most common form of vertical farming is hydroponics, a technique for growing plants without soil. Early concepts of vertical farming can be traced back to antiquity, including the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Incas' use of terrace farming to maximise arable land on steep terrains. In more modern times, hydroponic techniques have been advanced to completely soilless cultivation. Instances of early practical applications of hydroponics was in World War II, assisting with food production for allied soldiers operating in the pacific. Where conditions were hot, dry and with poor soil conditions. Vertical farming is still considered to be in its technical infancy. As Vertical farming evolves, it continues to address the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices to ensure global food security and mitigate environmental challenges.

Plants require nutrients, light, and water to grow. Vertical farming offers a soilless alternative by growing indoors without direct sunlight, using artificial light and a nutrient-rich water solution to support plant development. Typically conducted in controlled environments, vertical farming optimises growing conditions to allow plants to reach their maximum potential quickly. Unlike traditional outdoor farming, which is increasingly impacted by unpredictable weather due to climate change, vertical farming provides a resilient solution that partially relocates food production to urban areas, where demand is highest. This shift not only enhances our agri-food system but also frees up rural land for nature conservation and other environmental initiatives.

Let's get growing