This e-newsletter brings you the latest information and resources on biophilic design, the industry, and GPGB updates. 

Credits: Metropolis Magazine | November 2025

Photo credit: Bloom & Flourish, Steel House

As biophilic design continues to gain momentum across architecture and interiors, a November 2025 article in Metropolis Magazine urges designers to move beyond surface-level applications of greenery and refocus on the true intent of biophilic design. The piece clarifies that biophilia is not defined by simply adding plants to a space, but by creating authentic, multisensory connections to nature that measurably support human health, cognition, and wellbeing.

The article challenges the growing trend of “biophilic lite” approaches—such as decorative plants or nature imagery used without strategy—arguing that these tactics often miss the deeper environmental and psychological benefits biophilic design can deliver. Instead, it emphasizes integrated design solutions that consider daylight, airflow, natural materials, spatial variability, and living systems working together.

For architects and designers, the takeaway is clear: successful biophilic design is intentional, research-informed, and embedded into the architecture itself, not applied as an afterthought. When done well, biophilic strategies can enhance occupant experience, support sustainability goals, and create buildings that function more like living ecosystems than static structures.

Credits: Easy Plants 

Industry Trend Report | November 2025

As interior environments continue to prioritize wellness, flexibility, and human experience, plants are no longer treated as decorative accents—they are becoming core design elements. A widely shared industry trend report from late 2025 highlights how living plants are being intentionally integrated into interior spaces to shape function, aesthetics, and performance.

The article points to a growing demand for plant-based space dividers, vertical greenery, and integrated plant systems that define zones, guide movement, and add visual rhythm to interiors. Rather than isolated planters, designers and clients are seeking cohesive plant strategies that feel architectural and purposeful.

Another key trend is the rise of technology-supported plantscaping, including specialized lighting, self-watering systems, and plant-appropriate illumination that ensure long-term health while enhancing visual impact. This shift reinforces the value of professional expertise in designing and maintaining successful interior plant installations.

The report also underscores expanding opportunities beyond traditional commercial spaces, with plants increasingly specified for home offices, hybrid workplaces, hospitality, and amenity spaces—all driven by a desire to support wellbeing, comfort, and connection to nature.

For interior plantscaping professionals, the message is clear: plants are now expected to perform—aesthetically, biologically, and experientially. This evolution positions the interiorscape industry as a vital partner in biophilic design, wellness-focused interiors, and the future of the built environment.

Get a sneak peek at our latest CEU as Jan Goodman, GPGB President and founder of Cityscapes presents an overview at AIA25. Explore how intentional connections to nature can measurably improve human health, wellbeing, and performance in the built environment. This CEU introduces the science behind biophilia, key design patterns and frameworks, and real-world case studies—from interiorscaping and living walls to lighting, layout, and materiality. Learn practical strategies for applying biophilic design across a range of spaces, from simple plant interventions to immersive, multi-sensory environments, while understanding its role alongside sustainability and human-centered design.

Credits: International Plantscape Industry Alliance

The 2026 Let’s Get Tropical Charity Soirée brings together interior plantscape professionals, industry suppliers, and supporters for an evening of connection, celebration, and purpose. This tropical-inspired event will also recognize all 2026 International Plantscape Awards Program winners, with award announcements delivered through multiple digital platforms on the night of the event.

Proceeds from the soirée will support the Interior Industry Growth Fund (IIGF), managed by the National Horticulture Foundation, benefiting Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB). Funds raised will help advance critical research, education, advocacy, and sustainability initiatives that drive long-term growth and innovation within the interior plantscape industry.

Tickets: $100 per person (a portion of each ticket sale will be donated directly to the IIGF)
Ticket Availability: Online sales now open!
More Information: Ticketing details will be available on the homepage of www.I-PIA.com

Industry awards play a vital role in recognizing excellence, strengthening credibility, motivating teams, enhancing brand visibility, and attracting new business opportunities. Have your company recognized on a global stage while supporting the future of the interior plantscape industry.

The Tropical Plant International Expo (TPIE) is one of the premier global trade events for the tropical, foliage, and houseplant industries. Held annually in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, TPIE attracts growers, retailers, interiorscapers, horticultural professionals, and plant innovators from across the world. In 2025, the show drew nearly 7,400 industry professionals and more than 420 exhibiting companies to explore new plant varieties, products, and business opportunities.

2026 Dates: January 21–23, 2026
Location: Broward County Convention Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Why TPIE Matters to Professionals:

• Trend Forecasting & Innovation: TPIE showcases the latest tropical plant introductions, foliage trends, merchandising concepts, and product innovations that influence houseplants and interior green design markets.

• Education & Insights: The expo includes educational sessions, workshops, and the TPIE Roadshow, offering deep dives into emerging business strategies and plant care advancements.

• Global Industry Networking: With exhibitors from 50+ countries and thousands of attendees, TPIE provides unmatched opportunities to connect with growers, landscape architects, interiorscapers, and plant product suppliers.

• Market Access: For retailers and plant professionals, TPIE is a key marketplace to discover unique species, cutting-edge containers and supplies, and new partners that help shape offerings for the coming year.

Produced by the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association (FNGLA)—a major force in advancing the environmental horticulture industry—TPIE continues to influence how tropical and foliage plants are merchandised, cared for, and incorporated into interiorscape and landscape projects.

Mark your calendar: Whether you’re sourcing new plant material, scouting trends, building partnerships, or expanding your business reach, TPIE remains a must-attend event for professionals shaping the future of plants in built environments.

Grow Your Network. Share Your Knowledge. Inspire Change.

At Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB), we believe innovation flourishes when our community comes together. Our Monthly Supporter Open Forum Calls create a welcoming space to exchange experiences, share practical strategies, and explore the ideas shaping the future of the interiorscape industry.

These forums are more than conversations—they’re opportunities to learn from peers and industry leaders who understand the real-world challenges and opportunities of integrating plants into the built environment.

Holiday Schedule Update

In observance of the holiday season, GPGB’s Monthly Supporter Open Forum Calls will pause in November and December. We look forward to reconnecting in the new year with fresh perspectives and renewed energy.

Join Us Live at TPIE!!!

We’re excited to announce a special live GPGB Open Forum at the Tropical Plant International Expo (TPIE). This in-person gathering will bring our community together for meaningful discussion and connection—more details coming soon.

Why Participate?

• Connect with interiorscape professionals facing similar challenges

• Discover actionable ideas and creative solutions you can apply right away

• Stay informed on emerging trends in interiorscape and green building design

• Access recorded sessions to revisit insights and discussions anytime

Your perspective is what makes these forums thrive. Join the conversation and help shape the future of interiorscapes.

Not a supporter yet? Join GPGB today and be part of the dialogue!

Grow with GPGB: Volunteer and Make a Difference

At Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB), volunteers are at the heart of everything we do—advancing biophilic design, supporting education, and showcasing the vital role of plants in the built environment. Joining a GPGB committee or board is more than volunteering; it’s a chance to shape the future of green building, develop new skills, and expand your professional network.

We’re seeking passionate individuals ready to commit to a two-year volunteer term, gaining access to exclusive resources, collaborative projects, and a community of innovators leading the way in architecture, design, and interiorscaping.

Current Opportunities:

• Marketing & Communications

• Supporter Development

• Education & Professional Development

Each committee plays a strategic role in GPGB’s mission, ensuring your time and expertise have a lasting impact on the industry.

Ready to help transform spaces where people and plants thrive? Join a GPGB committee and grow with us today!

Thank You for Growing with GPGB!

At Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB), your support is what makes our mission possible. Every effort helps bring plants into the spaces where we work, learn, and gather—enhancing the benefits of biophilic design and creating healthier, more inspiring environments.

We’re grateful to have you in our community. Together, we’re not just adding greenery—we’re shaping spaces where people and nature thrive.

Get Involved

Show us biophilia in action! Share your 15–30 second videos, reels, stories, or shorts that highlight plants in the built environment, and your content could be featured on GPGB’s social media channels.

Connect with Trusted Interiorscape Professionals Through GPGB

Creating healthier, more sustainable indoor environments starts with the right expertise. The GPGB Provider Directory connects you with interiorscape professionals experienced in biophilic design, helping bring nature indoors in ways that support wellness and elevate your spaces.

These specialists do more than place plants—they design living spaces that improve air quality, enhance occupant well-being, and align with your design vision and organizational goals. From custom installations to ongoing care, the GPGB directory links you with professionals who deliver lasting, measurable impact.

Explore the GPGB Provider Directory today and see how nature can thrive in your spaces—beautifully, strategically, and sustainably.

Credits: Citychangers.org

Image credit: Via Verde / Fernando Ortiz Monasterio

Credits: The Root Scituate

Located in Scituate, Massachusetts, The Root is a charming boutique garden center and community space celebrating plants, flowers, and nature’s beauty. More than a plant shop, The Root offers a curated selection of greenery and blooms, creative workshops, floral subscriptions, and container services that invite both plant lovers and newcomers to explore and grow their connection with plants.

Want to Help Keep Nature in the News?

Everything we accomplish happens because people like you are stepping forward and supporting GPGB’s focus on having conversations with the building professionals who can #BringNatureIndoors.

If the spirit moves you, please consider supporting our work by making a donation.