“Artificial plants and flowers are usually regarded as unacceptable in well-designed interiors,” states John F. Pile in his book “Interior Design.”
At Pembrook Interiors, we wholeheartedly agree, and here’s why.
The False Promise of Artificial Plants
The appeal is understandable: no watering, no maintenance, no seasonal changes, no wilting. Yet artificial plants and flowers consistently fall short in well-designed interiors due to their inauthentic appearance. Their plastic leaves and synthetic petals lack the natural beauty and vitality that real plants effortlessly bring to a room. A common sentiment among designers is that fake plants and flowers in interior design are like bringing mannequins to a party—there’s a distinct lack of warmth and life that leaves the ambiance feeling flat and uninspired.
Hidden Drawbacks
While artificial plants might seem low maintenance, they come with their own set of challenges. They accumulate dust in ways that are difficult to clean, gradually lose their luster, and often develop an unmistakable synthetic odor over time. Unlike their living counterparts, they contribute nothing to indoor air quality or humidity. Instead of enhancing the vitality of a room, artificial plants can leave it feeling stale and lifeless, actually detracting from the overall aesthetic and atmosphere you’re trying to create.
The Magic of Real Plants
In contrast, real flowers and plants offer a dynamic and ever-changing element to interior design. Their delicate petals, vibrant colors, and subtle fragrances add a touch of elegance and sophistication that artificial substitutes simply cannot replicate. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, real plants have been shown to positively impact our mood, productivity, and overall sense of well-being, creating a more inviting and welcoming environment.
Real plants and flowers also help us stay connected to nature’s rhythms. Whether it’s spring tulips, summer hydrangeas, fall branches, or winter evergreens, seasonal plants mark time’s passage and keep our spaces feeling current and fresh. This natural evolution helps spaces feel alive and engaged with the world outside our windows.
Even the supposed imperfections of real plants—a slightly asymmetrical flower petal or an irregularly shaped leaf—serve as powerful reminders of life’s natural beauty. These subtle variations add character and authenticity to your space in a way that mass-produced artificial plants never can.
Solutions for Every Space
Concerned about maintenance? There are plenty of beautiful, low-maintenance options for every lighting condition and care level:
- Snake plants are among those that thrive in low light and can go weeks without water
- Preserved moss and boxwood can offer a stunning green impact with virtually no maintenance
- Fresh-cut flowers, changed weekly, can provide rotating seasonal beauty
- Professional plant maintenance services can handle the care for you
Making the Right Choice
When you’re tempted by artificial plants, remember well-designed spaces feel alive and dynamic. While artificial plants might seem like an easy solution, they ultimately detract from the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere you’re trying to create. Instead, invest in real plants that match your lifestyle and maintenance capabilities. Your home—and your well-being—will thank you for it.
Creating Living Spaces at Pembrook Interiors
At Pembrook Interiors, we understand that bringing life into your home requires a thoughtful, personalized approach. While our completed designs always incorporate some form of living elements, we carefully consider your lifestyle and preferences. Sometimes that means abundant fresh flowers; other times, it might be as simple as a single preserved boxwood sphere making a quiet statement. Whatever the solution, we ensure it enhances your space while fitting seamlessly into your daily life.
Ready to discover how we can bring the perfect balance of beauty and practicality to your home? Contact us today to begin, and let’s explore the possibilities together.
