The Lab / Design

Cultivating Calm: Designing with the Aesthetics of Plants

By Brett Westwood

In an increasingly digital and fast-paced world, our homes have become sanctuaries, and the desire to infuse them with tranquility and natural beauty has never been stronger. Interior design, traditionally focused on furniture, color palettes, and textures, is now embracing a more organic approach: integrating the aesthetics of plants. This movement goes beyond simply adding a potted plant; it involves weaving greenery into the very fabric of a space, drawing inspiration from nature to create environments that soothe the soul and invigorate the senses.

The Philosophy of Green Design

The integration of plants into interior design is rooted in several compelling philosophies, most notably Biophilic Design. This concept posits that humans have an innate tendency to connect with nature and other living systems. By bringing natural elements indoors, biophilic design aims to reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and improve overall well-being. The presence of plants can evoke feelings of comfort, relaxation, and naturalness, contributing to a more harmonious living environment [1].

Beyond biophilia, specific design aesthetics have emerged that place plants at their core:

• Urban Jungle: This style is characterized by an abundance of plants, often creating a lush, dense, and immersive green environment. It's about transforming indoor spaces into vibrant, living ecosystems, often featuring a mix of hanging plants, large floor plants, and varied foliage to create depth and visual interest.
• Japandi: A harmonious fusion of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality, Japandi design emphasizes simplicity, natural materials, and a deep connection with nature [2]. Plants in Japandi interiors are chosen for their sculptural forms, subtle beauty, and ability to contribute to a calm, uncluttered aesthetic. Think elegant, single-stemmed plants or carefully arranged succulents that complement the clean lines and neutral palettes of the space.

Integrating Plants: More Than Just Greenery

Successfully incorporating plant aesthetics into interior design involves thoughtful consideration of plant selection, placement, and how they interact with other design elements. It's about creating a cohesive look where plants are not just accessories but integral components of the design.

Strategic Placement and Visual Impact

Plants can serve various functional and aesthetic purposes within a room:

• Focal Points: Large, striking plants like a Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) or an Olive Tree (Olea europaea) can act as natural centerpieces, drawing the eye and adding a touch of grandeur [2].
• Defining Spaces: Groups of plants can subtly frame seating areas or delineate different zones within an open-plan layout, creating a sense of intimacy or separation without solid barriers.
• Adding Texture and Depth: A mix of plants with diverse leaf shapes, sizes, and shades of green can create visual richness and prevent a space from feeling flat. Consider the architectural forms of plants, such as the dramatic leaves of an Anthurium or the unique shapes of Bromeliads [3].
• Vertical Greenery: Green walls, vertical gardens, and hanging planters are increasingly popular, especially in urban environments where floor space is limited. These installations maximize greenery while adding a dynamic, living art piece to a wall [3].

Plant Selection for Specific Aesthetics

The choice of plant species is crucial for achieving a desired aesthetic. Here’s a brief guide to plant types suitable for different styles:

Table 1: Plant selection guide for popular plant-centric interior design aesthetics [2, 3].

Beyond the Green: Planters and Accessories

The vessel holding the plant is as important as the plant itself. Planters should complement the overall design aesthetic:

• Japandi: Opt for simple, neutral-toned ceramic pots, terracotta, or natural wood planters with clean lines. The focus is on the plant and the material, not ornate decoration [2].
• Urban Jungle: Eclectic mixes of planters, often incorporating woven baskets, concrete, or even recycled containers, can enhance the wild, natural feel [3].
• Biophilic: Natural materials like stone, wood, and clay are preferred, emphasizing the connection to the earth.

The Future is Green

As we move towards 2027 and beyond, plant-centered interior design continues to evolve. Trends indicate a growing interest in innovative plant art installations, the juxtaposition of organic and inorganic materials, and a greater emphasis on flowering plants indoors [3]. The goal remains the same: to blur the line between the built environment and the natural world, creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also deeply nourishing for our mental and physical well-being.

By thoughtfully integrating the aesthetics of plants, we can transform our interiors into vibrant, calming havens that reflect our innate connection to nature and promote a more mindful way of living.

References

[1] Lee, M., Lee, J., Park, B. J., & Miyazaki, Y. (2015). Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: a randomized crossover study. Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 34(1), 21. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4419447/

[2] THURSD. (2025, February 12). 10 Ideal Houseplants for Japandi Aesthetics in Interior Design. Retrieved from https://thursd.com/articles/houseplants-japandi-aesthetics-interior-design

[3] Fletcher, K. (2025, January 23). Indoor Plant Design Trends for 2025. Plant Savvy. https://www.plantsavvy.com/blog/indoor-plant-design-trends-for-2025