Biophilic design philosophy is a burgeoning movement with proven benefits, and it's not going anywhere anytime soon. A virtual roundtable hosted by Kalco Lighting not only highlighted the importance of plants, but the overall use of other natural components to create a restorative environment in constructed spaces. Embracing biophilia not only fosters a serene ambiance but also promotes better well-being within living environments.
"Whether you’re an interior designer working on commercial and residential projects, or just looking to give your home a refresh, you can’t go wrong incorporating biophilic design principles," adds Justin Hancock, a horticulturist at Costa Farms. "By connecting your indoor spaces with the natural world, you create a soothing, comfortable environment where you can both work and feel better. I find having a plant in my bedroom, for example, adds a relaxing touch to my indoor space. I always try to keep one visible from my desk because there are many scientific studies that point to how they can help improve our memory, creativity, and problem-solving skills."
Eight Plants That'll Improve Your Interiors
Global Green Pothos
"Global Green Pothos is one of my go-to houseplants when I’m looking to add to my space or make a recommendation for a friend," shares Hancock. "Its green-on-green pattern (light centers with darker edges) adds subtle beauty and helps it pair beautifully with just about any other houseplant. It’s also super versatile, in that you can grow it up a support (wall, trellis, totem) or hang it and let it gracefully trail. It’s also pretty forgiving if you forget to water from time to time and grows in a variety of lighting conditions, so it’s good for both experienced plant parents and beginners looking to add life to their space."
Mini Monstera
The Mini Monstera plant brings a natural charm, and you could certainly argue its benefit for biophilic design. It's a beautiful addition to the home. With minimal upkeep required and a compact size, it's perfect for apartments or home offices, where space is limited.
Baltic Blue Pothos
This low-maintenance plant species with dark, blue-green leaves suit busy individuals or those who claim they can't keep their plants alive. Don't worry about finding a space with direct sunlight—this hardy plant can thrive in direct and indirect sunlight.
Raven® ZZ Plant
"Raven ZZ might just have everything you could want in a plant," votes Hancock. "It tolerates low, indirect light conditions (but loves medium and bright spots). It’s not exacting about humidity or temperature, so you can grow it in practically any room—even offices where there’s no natural light. And it stores water in thick roots and rubbery leaves, surviving even if you water it only once a month or so (but it grows better and faster if watered a bit more regularly)."
Emphasizing the current trendiness of the ZZ plants in biophilic design, he adds, "And yes, it's fashionable—the leaves mature to a rich, purple-black color that create a gorgeous contrast when it’s grown with other houseplants. A lot of people love it for the “goth look” it provides their home décor."
Polka Dot Begonia
The upright Polka Dot Begonia Maculata features dark green leaves with rusty red undersides and silver polka dots on top. It's pretty, and also very low maintenance, making this potted plant an effortless addition to a biophilic space in an indoor environment. Seeking greenery without the hassle? Not only does it offer air-purifying benefits by reducing indoor pollutants, but the positive impact also has health benefits, reducing anxiety levels and supporting the physical health of those in its proximity.
Pink Princess Philodendron
You might not know it by name, but there's a reason this plant is so popular. Its vibrant hues and visual allure are great additions to any space. Like most lush houseplants, it fosters a profound connection to nature, inducing a calming and grounding effect on your well-being. Its distinctive appearance, featuring dark green leaves adorned with soft to hot-pink streaks and splashes, easily becomes a focal point and conversation topic. Plus, it's easy to care for, making it perfect for the contemporary trendsetter (who has a busy schedule).
Silver Dragon Alocasia
The 'Silver Dragon' is a striking addition to biophilic design, connecting indoor spaces with nature. Its shimmering silver and dark green leaves resemble dragon scales, and it pulls its strong connection with nature indoors. Integrating this natural plant into biophilic designs has several psychological benefits: it reduces stress, boosts creativity, and purifies indoor air. The Silver Dragon Alocasia captures all biophilic principles, and its heart-shaped, two-tone leaves are perfect for any countertop, shelf, or desktop.
Monstera Little Swiss
"Little Swiss Monstera is a favorite because it’s easy-growing," notes Hancock. "It tolerates a wide range of growing conditions and is relatively forgiving if you forget to water it. In bright spots, it’s a quick-growing climbing plant, and I get a great feeling of satisfaction watching it grow week after week. It’s easy to propagate, so I share cuttings with my friends and family to share the love. Its leaves are decorated with natural windows (fenestrations) that give it an artful look. And if you grow it up a wall, trellis, or totem, the leaves will get a lot bigger and more tropical looking."
Other Green Plants to Consider for a Biophilic Interior
- Snake Plant
- Spider Plant
- Monstera Deliciosa
How can I easily incorporate plants into my interior design scheme?
Consider factors such as space, lighting, and plant selection. Choose plants that complement the existing decor and fit the scale of the room. Experiment with different arrangements, such as clustering plants together, creating a plant wall on a shelf, or using hanging planters to maximize vertical space. Once you have a plan, start with small containers and let the plants grow to fill the space. With the right care, won't take long, we promise!
What are some key considerations for homeowners interested in implementing biophilic design in their homes?
It's important that your home feels like a healing environment. “We’re seeing biophilia evolve from bringing plants and flowers into the home to greater applications and inspiration from the outside world, like pebble-shaped stools and unique applications of glass that evoke the movement of water,” shares Danielle DeBoe Harper, Moen’s Senior Creative Style Manager. “The result is rooms that are not cookie-cutter. You’re bringing in a connection of nature and ensuring your bath doesn’t look like your neighbors.”
Grace Denniston, award-winning luxury lighting designer at Kalco Lighting adds that she lets popular personal preferences help dictate what materials and finishes she picks for a homeowner's design. For example, she notes that today’s customers might consider using more natural materials than ever before.
If you're adding plants as a design element and leaning into biophilia, consider the space in your home, its lighting, and your ability to keep up with the needs of new, plant-filled spaces. Choose plants and materials that suit your lifestyle, and most importantly, choose natural elements you love the look of, because the visual connection to your surroundings affects your well-being.
