To some, a fake plant is always fake. In biophilic design, however, the true definition of artificial plants can be challenged. We are, more than ever, disconnected from the natural ecosystems and environment that surrounds us. Maybe it’s time to look at the benefits of fake plants and biophilic design for inspiration.

What Is Biophilic Design?

Biophilic design is the practice of connecting spaces to nature. This is often done by using greenery, plants, and trees in building design, establishing direct contact with nature.

Biophilic design in Europe has been shown to have positive health benefits as well as encourage a deeper understanding of nature and the environment around us. This is almost a throwback towards a time of agriculture and without the overt commercialism, industrialization, and capitalism that dominates modern society.

How Do Faux Plants Fit In With Biophilic Design?

When we see a faux plant, if it looks real and it feels real, a person won’t necessarily register it ‘fake’. The human inclination is to use what we perceive to make a judgment call. If the perception is real, we call it such.

Biophilic design does not necessitate the use of real plants. The building philosophy is about building a relationship between a building and nature, and that can be done indirectly. For artificial plants in biophilic design, they can be used as tabletop plants, in vertical gardens, faux trees in common areas, and more. There aren’t any rules with what faux plants work best or the manner in which they have to be used. If it looks like nature and it feels like nature to someone inside the space, that’s what it becomes to them. In this way, the promise of biophilic design can be fulfilled using fake plants.

Do You Need Faux Plants In Your Biophilic Space?

Look at what’s around you. How connected do you feel to nature? Maybe there’s nothing surrounding you that speaks of anything natural. Even if you’re not good at taking care of authentic real plants, there aren’t any excuses not to buy a faux plant.

You can have your own biophilic-inspired bedroom or living situation by following these simple steps.

  • A biophilic design speaks of minimalism to a degree. Eliminate the disconnect by only having things in your space that spark joy Marie Condo-style and that facilitate that relationship to nature.

  • Green is the colour of nature. The more green you have, the better. Artificial plants combined with other natural materials – a la wood, stone, and moss – can facilitate a closer relationship with relationship through colour and texture manipulation.

  • Cover up any concrete or hard surfaces that do not feel natural. Lay out a woven rug, carpet, or a textile to provide you something made by hand or using natural materials to rest.

  • Use imagery from art or photographs of nature and natural settings to inspire biophilic design.

  • Bring in natural light. Open the window. Consider ways to let some fresh air in, if there’s fresh air nearby.

  • We all have an inherent need to be in nature, sometimes at a subconscious and almost non-noticeable level. Our modern environment is one that doesn’t prioritize the need for nature. Biophilic design does, however. Visit Artiplanto.eu to find the best fake plants in Europe, with fast shipping continent-wide.
    Andrew Lu