We Filled the Merrill Auditorium with Plants+Style.
July 17, 2023
Back in February of 2023, Northeastern University’s Roux Institute reached out to us with a request to design and fill their commencement ceremony event, taking place at Merrill Auditorium with potted plants, and furniture. Our team put their heads together to propose a plan, within a certain budget, that would be sure to make graduates and faculty comfortable, but also wow them and their guests.
The faculty robing room installed, used and broke down all within one day.
Our task was to fill the stage, entryway, and associated rooms on the floor below with plants and furniture. If you’ve never been to the windowless, basement rooms of the Merrill Auditorium, you’re not missing much. The Roux Institute event planning staff shared that they would need these rooms to serve as ‘robing’ (think dressing) rooms for faculty, students and special guests—that included Governor Janet Mills(!). The rooms should be comfortable for eating, socializing and primping before everyone headed to the stage. Our team accepted the challenge, and with the help of A Family Affair Furniture rentals, selected pieces that would hide unsavory details, modernize, and add comfort to rooms that so desperately needed it.
Plant preparation included the potting, cleaning and perfecting of over 100 indoor plant varieties (included ferns, ficus, snake plants, small pines and so much more) to match the desired look and feel of the event, which was all things Maine. Matte, black ceramic pots would allow the plants to shine, and be cohesive throughout the entire experience. This preparation took place at Lyman School Studios, a school that is being transformed into artist studios as we type!
The plants were complimented with a variety of cut flowers throughout the event. It was a huge honor to be trusted with the creation of the stage bouquets that would frame the podium and speakers (see above). The flowers featured deep reds, with small pops of white, in matte black vases.
Hay Runner Plant Design by East Pine on install day.
We are thrilled with the results and congratulate our team, made up of Hay Runner designers, experienced planners, project managers, and Hay Runner Plant Design by East Pine, for their hard work over the past few months to aid in bringing The Roux Institute’s commencement to life with plants, florals and furniture. It’s difficult to put into words how proud we are of this team, this project, and the visions brought to fruition.
Hay Runner’s plant division is ready and willing to take on more projects that involve your vision, and plants! Contact us to start the conversation here.
